7 Benefits of Red Tea (Rooibos Tea)

Rooibos tea, often refer to as red tea, has become popular not only for tea drinker but also for those looking to improve their health, as the tea offers many health benefits. Red tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea that originates from a plant found in South Africa known as the Aspalathus linearis plant. Red tea is rich in essential minerals and antixidants, making it an intriguing tea to drink. Let’s jump into the health benefits of Rooibos red tea. 

The Health Benefits of Red Tea (Rooibos Tea)

Red tea (Rooibos Tea) has been found to have numerous health benefits such as its richness in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, along with its impact on cardiovascular health, digestive health, immune system, weight management, bone strength, and on the skin.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Red tea is rich in antioxidants which helps manage and combat stress in the body, specifically oxidative stress. "The unique combination of antioxidants in rooibos tea, including aspalathin and nothofagin, may offer significant health benefits by neutralising free radicals," as explained by Robert Anker, a nutrition expert from the University of Cambridge.

Studies found that the antioxidants found in rooibos tea have been linked to reduce inflammation which potentially lowers the risk of heart disease, cancer and other chronic diseases. Although this health benefit is similar in green tea, the additional benefit of red tea is that it is caffeine-free as oppose to green tea. If you are interested in What is the Best Green Tea for Weight Loss? continue reading. 

2. Promotes Heart Health

Drinking red tea was found to help improve the heart and cardiovascular health. The flavonoids in red tea are linked to lower blood pressure which supports cardiovascular health. 

A study, from the Department of Internal Medicine at Stellenbosch University, found that when a person drinks about six cups of rooibos tea each day for six weeks they saw a significant improvement in their lipid profile. The study found that the LDL cholesterol was lowered and the HDL cholesterol levels were increased. 

"Rooibos tea's ability to improve cholesterol levels is promising for heart health, particularly because it is caffeine-free and can be consumed without the potential side effects associated with other teas and coffee," explained Dr Michael Green, a cardiologist. 

3. Supports Digestive Health

Red tea helps with the digestive health by relieving diarrhoea, cramps and other gastrointestinal issues. Red supports the digestive health by relaxing the digestive tract with the antispasmodic compounds the tea contains. Red tea improves the overall gut health by reducing inflammation and proving gut flora balance.

"The anti-inflammatory properties of rooibos tea can aid in reducing symptoms of digestive disorders, making it a gentle and effective remedy for various gastrointestinal conditions," advises Dr. Sarah Collins, a gastroenterologist. 

4. Boosts Immune System

Red tea helps boost the immune system with it vitamins and minerals concentration, including zinc, iron and vitamin C. Drinking red tea regularly is linked to enhance the immune function which then helps fight off possible infections. Boosting the immune system is known to reduce the severity of a cold and flu as well as its duration, therefore, suggesting red tea is an excellent drink during flu season and colder weathers. 

5. Aids in Weight Management

Red tea is known to reduce appetite and regulates the metabolism, playing a role in managing weight. Since red tea is caffeine-free, it can be drank at night without having an impact on sleep. 

"The polyphenols in rooibos tea have been shown to increase energy expenditure and improve fat metabolism, which can be beneficial for those trying to lose weight," explains Dr. Andrew Roberts, a specialist in metabolic health. 

The Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology also found that rooibos tea helps the body burn fat effectively while reducing the amount of new fat cells that are created. 

6. Supports Bone Health

Red tea contains the minerals calcium, manganese and fluoride which help maintain bone strength and density. "Rooibos tea's mineral content can contribute to improved bone health, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis," explains Dr. Linda Matthews, an orthopaedic specialist. 

7. Improves Skin Health

With its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, red tea is known to improve skin health. "Topical application of rooibos tea can reduce skin inflammation and promote healing, making it beneficial for conditions such as acne and eczema," as stated by Dr Olivia Thompson, a dermatologist.

The Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that red tea helps improve the skin barrier function by creating healthier, resilient skin and reducing oxidative damage.

People Also Ask

What kind of tea is red tea?

Red tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from the Aspalathus linearis plant, also known as rooibos.

Is British tea red tea?

No, British tea is typically black tea, not red tea.

Is red tea and rooibos the same?

Yes, red tea and rooibos are the same.

Conclusion

Red tea, or commonly known as Rooibos tea, has become popular not only for its delicious taste but also for its variety of health benefits. If you are trying to avoid caffeine but still wanting the benefits of tea, red tea is a great option to add to your daily routine. 

Find out more about 12 evidence-based health benefits of drinking tea and more.