Two powerful compounds are reponsible for Redbush tea heart support benefits. Aspalathin–a rare flavonoid found almost exclusively in Rooibos combats oxidative stress and Nothofagin–a complementary antioxidant that enhances the tea’s anti-inflammatory properties.
What Is Redbush Tea?
Redbush tea is an African herbal tea made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant which is native to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa. The plant is also known as known as Rooibos. Redbush tea boasts a range of potential health benefits, which includes support for heart health.
Important Note: While research into Redbush tea’s health benefits is promising, particularly for heart health, studies are still emerging. Early findings highlight its potential for reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting heart health. However, more clinical trials are needed for definitive conclusions.
Redbush Tea Benefits
Why Redbush Tea Works for Heart Health: In this post, dig into the science behind Redbush tea and how it can potentially support your heart health. First we’ll explore more potential benefits, preparation tips, and possible side effects. And we’ll provide a few practical tips for incorporating this healthy herbal tea into your diet.
BushTea Antioxidants Benefits
Aspalathin, one of the main active compounds in Aspalathus linearis is a unique flavonoid that has been shown to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause damage to cells resulting in cardiovascular issues. Aspalathin benefits includes neutralizing these free radicals, thereby promoting heart health.
Redbush Tea And Blood Pressure
How redbush supports blood pressure: Studies have suggested that polyphenols in Bush tea support healthy blood pressure thereby contributing to heart health. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease, but compounds in Rooibos may help relax blood vessels which reduces strain on the heart.
Redbush For Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is another key player in the development of heart disease. The anti-inflammatory properties of Redbush have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This helps protect the heart from damage and lowers the risk of developing conditions like atherosclerosis.
Redbush Tea For Better Circulation
Regular consumption of Redbush tea may also improve circulation by promoting healthy blood vessels. The compounds in the tea help keep blood vessels flexible and prevent them from becoming stiff, which is critical for maintaining healthy blood flow.
Redbush For Cholesterol
Some research suggests that Redbush tea can help improve cholesterol levels by promoting healthy LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels while reducing triglycerides. This contributes to better overall heart health and a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Key Takeaways
Redbush tea, a naturally caffeine-free beverage offers a wide range of potential heart health benefits. Key compounds like aspalathin and nothofagin are responsible for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-regulating properties.
Regular consumption of this tea may help support healthy blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, all of which are vital for optimal heart health.
Did You Know?
- Despite being called a “tea,” Redbush isn’t technically a tea at all – it’s an herb from the legume family, related to peas and beans! This makes it truly naturally caffeine-free.
- Redbush can be steeped multiple times without becoming bitter, unlike traditional teas. The second steeping often reveals subtle flavors that might be missed in the first brew!
- Green Redbush exists! While most people know the red variety, there’s also a green version that isn’t oxidized. It’s rarer and contains even higher levels of antioxidants than the red variety.
- During World War II, Redbush tea gained significant popularity worldwide when Asian tea supplies were blocked, creating shipping difficulties with traditional black tea.
- The name Rooibos means red bush in Afrikaans, hence Redbush tea. The plant only grows naturally in one place on Earth – the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa.
Traditional Uses of Redbush
Traditional Uses: Redbush tea has been used as medicine by generations of South Africans. Rooibos tea traditional medicinal uses1 benefits of Redbush include alleviation of colic in infants, allergies, asthma and skin infections.
In modern times, it’s been embraced worldwide for its versatility and potential health benefits, particularly for supporting a healthy heart.
More Benefits of Redbush Tea
In addition to cardiovascular health benefits, drinking the herbal tea may provide there other benefits based on limited human2 trials.
- Digestive Health: Bush tea has been traditionally used to soothe digestive discomfort, and some research suggests it may help with conditions like indigestion and stomach ulcers.
- Skin Health: Topical applications made from Rooibos are used to alleviate skin problesms such as eczema and acne.
- Bone Health: Preliminary research indicates that Rooibos tea may support bone health by promoting the activity of osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation.
- Diabetes Management: Some studies3 suggest that Rooibos may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially offering benefits for individuals with diabetes.
- Allergy Relief: The herbal tea contains bioactive compounds that may help alleviate allergy symptoms by inhibiting the release of histamine in the body.
Redbush Tea Preparation
Here are a few simple steps you can follow to make the tea at home:
- Boil water and pour it into your teapot or cup.
- Add 1 teaspoon of loose leaf Redbush tea (or 1 tea bag).
- Let it steep for 5-7 minutes for a rich flavor.
- Strain the leaves and enjoy! You can also add a slice of lemon or a splash of milk, depending on your preference.
Recommended Consumption: For heart health, it’s best to drink 1 or 2 cups of the tea per day. Drinking it regularly, especially in the morning or before bed, may provide long-term benefits for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.
Bonus Tips: Boiling will extract more bioactive compounds from the tea leaves as opposed to steeping. The amount of leaves used, and even where they are harvested may affect your tea’s profile.
Choosing Organic Redbush Tea
You can buy organic Redbush tea in many health food stores, online retailers, or specialty tea shops. Be sure to choose products that are ethically sourced and free from artificial additives.
Opting for organic options is a good idea to ensure the highest quality and purity. Here are a few available forms you can buy.
| Formulation | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Loose Leaves | High-quality, customizable strength, eco-friendly packaging. | Requires a tea infuser, more time-consuming to prepare. |
| Redbush Tea Bags | Convenient, easy to brew, perfect for on-the-go. | May not offer the same depth of flavor as loose leaf tea. |
| Redbush Tea Concentrates | Quick to prepare, consistent flavor. | Can be more expensive per serving. |
As always, it’s important to speak with your doctor before introducing new herbal remedies into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
Redbush Tea Side Effects
As with any herbal tea, there may be mild or rare adverse reactions, especially for people with specific health conditions or sensitivities. Let’s take a closer look at the possible side effects of drinking Redbush tea.
- Stomach Upset or Digestive Discomfort: Some people may experience mild stomach upset or digestive discomfort after drinking Redbush tea. Why it happens? Polyphenols and other compounds in the tea can sometimes irritate the stomach lining, especially in those prone to digestive issues.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to Redbush tea, especially if they are sensitive to plants in the legume family. While Rooibos is not technically a legume, it belongs to the Fabaceae family and can sometimes cause cross-reactions.
- Headaches: While it’s uncommon, some individuals may experience headaches or migraines after drinking Redbush tea. Why it happens? This could be due to the high levels of antioxidants, such as aspalathin, which can have a slight stimulating effect on the body.
- Interference with Iron Absorption: Tannins in herbal teas are known to interfere with the body’s absorption of non-heme iron. How to avoid this issue. It’s recommended that individuals who are at risk of iron deficiency (such as vegans, vegetarians, or pregnant women) avoid drinking Redbush tea with meals.
Who Should Avoid Rooibos Tea?
- Certain individuals, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, persons with pre-existing medical conditions, or those taking prescribed medications, may need to avoid drinking Redbush tea.
- Redbush tea may interact with certain medications, especially those related to blood pressure, blood thinning, or hormone-sensitive conditions If you’re taking medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic conditions, you should speak with your doctor before adding Redbush tea to your routine.
- While Redbush tea is generally safe for children, young ones may be more sensitive to its antioxidants or tannin content. It’s always best to check with a pediatrician before introducing any new herbal tea to a child’s diet.
If you’re ready to explore the heart benefits of Redbush tea, why not give it a try? Check out our recommended brands to find the best option for your needs!
Have you tried Redbush tea? Please share your experience by leaving a comment below:
Conclusion
Redbush tea is more than just a delicious and refreshing beverage. It may offer a range of heart-healthy benefits, thanks to its rich antioxidant content and unique compounds.
Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, or improve circulation, Redbush tea could be a simple, natural addition to your daily wellness routine. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.
- Joubert, E et al. “South African herbal teas: Aspalathus linearis, Cyclopia spp. and Athrixia phylicoides–a review.” Journal of ethnopharmacology vol. 119,3 (2008): 376-412. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2008.06.014 ↩︎
- Afrifa, Daniel et al. “The health benefits of rooibos tea in humans (aspalathus linearis)-a scoping review.” Journal of public health in Africa vol. 14,12 2784. 1 Dec. 2023, doi:10.4081/jphia.2023.2784 ↩︎
- Kawano, Atsutoshi et al. “Hypoglycemic effect of aspalathin, a rooibos tea component from Aspalathus linearis, in type 2 diabetic model db/db mice.” Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology vol. 16,5 (2009): 437-43. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2008.11.009 ↩︎
Disclosure: This website is for informational purposes only. Nothing stated here should be viewed as medical advice. See our full medical disclosure here.
