Red bush tea, also known as rooibos tea, bush tea, bushman tea and red tea, is a beverage made by steeping the leaves of the rooibos plant in hot water. The rooibos plant, or red bush, is a shrub with small, needle-shaped leaves and delicate yellow flowers. It is native to South Africa, where this drink originated.
When the leaves of the rooibos plant are harvested for tea, they are bruised, dried, and fermented. This process causes them to turn from their original lush green to a reddish brown hue. This pigment has given the plant and subsequent tea their names.
The herbal tea made from rooibos has a distinct reddish orange color. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet. Unlike many other teas, red bush tea does not contain caffeine. The beverage has a long history as a popular drink in South Africa, and can now be found in other areas including Europe, Asia, and the United States. Red bush tea can be drunk plain, with milk, or with honey and lemon.
Red bush tea is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C and has many purported health benefits. An article published in 2006 by Diane L. McKay of the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University concluded that studies performed on animals have revealed that this tea may boost the immune system and help prevent cancer. Similar studies on humans are scarce, but these results are promising.
In South Africa, the tea was commonly used to treat stomach ailments including cramps, diarrhea, and colic. The antioxidant properties of the plant can help relieve discomfort from allergies, eczema, and rashes. This drink has been given the nickname, “Long Life Tea” in Asia for these numerous health benefits.
Red bush tea has no known side effects. In addition to being consumed for its health benefits, this beverage is also used by some as an everyday drink. The lack of caffeine in the plant has made it the preferred choice for individuals who are looking for a non-stimulating beverage.
To prepare the tea, one should steep anywhere from one to four teaspoons of dried, prepared rooibos in one cup of water. The more rooibos used, the stronger the resulting tea will be. Red bush tea can also be purchased from commercial tea companies. Some variations include chai, lemon, cranberry, orange, and other added flavorings.