Heaven of Tea

Rooibos is a delicious red tea that is becoming very popular in the West. Also referred to as Red bush tea or even just bush tea, Rooibos is actually a herbal tisane, since it comes from the South African bush Aspalathus linoaris rather than Camellia sinensis. So why is it so popular? Mainly for health reasons; Rooibos teas are naturally caffeine-free and contain lots of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and proteins. But they are also delicious, producing a slightly sweet tea with nutty undertones. Often herbal blends will include Rooibos teas, but you can also find Rooibos that isn’t blended with other flavors.

Rooibos liquor is actually a reddish tint which gives it the nickname “Red Tea”, but the word Rooibos translates to “Red Bush” in Afrikaans (Aspalathus linoaris is a reddish bush). And, interestingly enough, there is also Green Rooibos Tea. Red Rooibos is the traditional, oxidized tea and Green Rooibos is unoxidized, which makes production of Green Rooibos more expensive, but also helps preserve some of the health benefits. Many times Green Rooibos is actually part of an herbal tea mix, rather than consumed alone.

Like other herbal teas, Rooibos has very little tannins, so it can be steeped for much longer than a normal tea. Typically, you make Rooibos tea with 1.5 teaspoons of tea per 8 ounces of water. Heat water just to the boiling point and steep for approximately five minutes. Organic Red Rooibos tea is also available for those seeking organic teas. And Rooibos is delicious as an iced tea as well; just double the amount of tea used and pour over ice when done steeping.

If you haven’t tried Rooibos, it’s really a delicious tea. Particularly recommended for those who like a slightly sweeter taste to their teas or love herbal teas. And there are lots of Rooibos blends to try – I’m sure you’ll love more than one of them!