The first mention of rooibos tea dates back to 1772. And the healing drink was recognized in European countries only in the middle of the 20th century, and still wins the hearts of tea connoisseurs. Rooibos is a representative of the legume family. It grows only in the conditions of the South African climate in the form of a bush that has long red branches and thin needle-like leaves.
Description
The composition of rooibos tea is truly unique. By the content of vitamins and minerals it can be compared with nutritional supplements. During production, leaves of the plant are collected, which after processing take a green or reddish-brick color. To get rooibos green tea , the leaves are steamed immediately after harvesting, thus stopping the fermentation process. When brewing, a light-colored drink with a delicate herbal taste pulses. During the production of red tea, the leaves are dried in the sun, and after brewing, the rooibos takes on a reddish hue and acquires a sweet taste.
The antioxidant properties of rooibos, especially its green varieties, are of great value. Thanks to these qualities, the negative effects of free radicals on DNA are neutralized, which stops the aging process, the development of cardiovascular diseases, and the appearance of oncological formations.
The drink in excess contains essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, copper, sodium and manganese.
Rooibos tea has excellent bactericidal properties. Due to the presence of natural tetracycline in its composition, compresses and lotions with tea are effective in the treatment of skin diseases, irritations, eczema, dermatitis.
Rooibos improves digestion, is used as an expectorant and anthelmintic, strengthens blood vessels, and normalizes blood pressure. Due to the high content of nutrients, trace elements and minerals, it is recommended to include it in the diet of athletes.
The drink contains glucose, which helps to restore strength, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, protecting it from overexcitation, and also prevents the occurrence of insomnia. Rooibos tea is recommended to drink with frequent headaches, nervous disorders, depressive states, irritability, allergic reactions.
Due to the lack of caffeine in the structure, the drink has a beneficial effect on people diagnosed with hypertension. In addition, rooibos tea practically does not contain oxalic acid, so it can be safely consumed in any quantities by people who have a tendency to form kidney stones.
Brewing and use
To prepare a drink, take a regular tea pot (porcelain, earthenware or clay). A small amount of dry leaves must be poured with boiling water and let it brew for at least five minutes. For greater effect and better extraction, the teapot can be put in a hot oven or microwave. With the help of prolonged languishing, the beneficial properties will only increase, and this is the main difference between rooibos and traditional tea, the potential of which is lost during additional heat treatment.
Due to the fact that the tea leaves have a high density, repeated brewing is possible, which will only enhance the nutritional and taste qualities of the drink. The optimal dose is one two tablespoons per cup.
The fact that there is a small amount of tannin in tea is not a contraindication and cannot serve as a basis for refusing to take it. In general, no side effects have been identified to date.
Rooibos is a wonderful tool that allows you to keep your body in great shape.