Rooibos is rich in antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage, vitamin C, zinc, calcium and phosphorus.
What are its health benefits?
Rooibos extract is made from the branches and twigs of the Aspalathus linearis tree. It is a popular beverage in South Africa, usually consumed in tea form, and is also found in skin care products.
Rooibos is caffeine-free and low in tannins.
Rooibos supplementation may have the following benefits:
- Assists in the prevention of age-related changes in the brain
- Aids in iron absorption in iron-deficiency anaemia
- Assists with the management of colic in babies
- Assists with digestive problems
- Supports skin health
Recommended dietary allowance (RDA)
An RDA for rooibos tea has not been established.
Warnings
Research by the renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the US reports that rooibos shows oestrogenic activity, and advises that you speak to your doctor before using rooibos if you have a hormone-sensitive cancer, such as breast cancer.
Also antioxidant-rich foods may interfere with the action of chemotherapy medicines.
Speak to your doctor about using rooibos tea if you have liver or kidney disease, and during pregnancy or during breastfeeding.
Possible side effects
There are no side effects and also no overdose risks per se.
Ensure you discuss dietary supplementation with your Clicks pharmacist to avoid the potential for side effects and adverse interactions with medications.
This medicine has not been evaluated by the Medicines Control Council. This medicine is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.