Rooibos Tea is made from the Aspalathus linearis plant, which is indigenous to the Cedarberg Mountains in South Africa. Locals are thought to have consumed Rooibos centuries ago, and have long since proclaimed the health benefits and therapeutic powers of the tea. It has traditionally been used in the treatment of colic in babies and indigestion in adults.

Preparing, testing and evaluating Rooibos Tea
The branches of the Aspalathus linearis plant are cut by hand and the leaves are soaked, bruised and oxidised. Once the tea has dried in the sun, it's delivered to the Rooibos Tea Board in South Africa to be tested for quality and grading. The tea is evaluated according to taste, flavour and colour.

The antioxidants in Rooibos Tea
The types of antioxidants found in Rooibos Tea are called polyphenol antioxidants. These include aspalathin, quercetin, rutin, orientin, vitexin, isovitexon, luteolin, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and pcourmaric acid.
What's more, scientific and clinical trials have closely investigated the cancer protective properties of luteolin, rutin and quercitin in particular.
Vital Rooibos Tea is also rich in the antioxidant Super Oxide Dismutase, which offers superior protection against free radical production.

Additional qualities of Rooibos Tea

• Low in tannins
• Rich in calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, zinc and copper.

Health benefits of Rooibos Tea

• Colic and digestion - Rooibos Tea has been traditionally used in South Africa to treat colic in babies and digestive problems in adults.
• Immune support - the antioxidants and minerals found in Rooibos Tea are believed to support the immune system.
• Skin health - Superoxide Dismutase mimetic substances found in Rooibos Tea help to protect your skin against free radicals associated with the ageing process.

Serving suggestions

Hot drinks
Rooibos Tea is traditionally consumed hot with milk. If you enjoy a sweeter flavour, a teaspoon of honey can be added or a slice of lemon is also a popular option.
For maximum flavour, allow the teabag the brew in your cup for 3-5 minutes.

Cold drinks
A jug of iced Vital Rooibos Tea is perfect for warm days. Using 4 tea bags, steep the bags for 5 minutes, then strain. Pour the tea into a jug with some ice cubes and cold water. Then simply add a wedge of lemon or a spoonful of honey, or mix in other fruits such as watermelon, apple or pineapple. Fresh mint leaves also help to create a crisp taste.