Rooibos, commonly referred to incorrectly as red tea, is a drink originating from South Africa. It is traditionally consumed with milk, but is also excellent plain. Rooibos tea is used in herbal blends that delight with their delicate flavours and the complete absence of caffeine in their composition.
Organic red tea therefore bears the name "tea" incorrectly, as it contains absolutely no theine. This is actually an advantage, as it can be consumed at any time of day. It thus remains a drink accessible to all those for whom caffeine is inadvisable (for example, pregnant women). Discover in this
Red tea, closer to herbal tea than to tea
The term "red tea" gives a misleading interpretation of what rooibos really is and causes confusion. In reality, rooibos, derived from Aspalathus linearis, has nothing in common with tea, which comes from a shrub called Camellia sinensis. It differs from tea by its low tannin content and the complete absence of caffeine in its composition. For this reason, rooibos is in fact closer to herbal teas than to teas.
If it is called red tea, it is purely a shorthand, and also because once brewed, this drink is red. It is worth knowing that rooibos comes in an infinite variety of flavours, just like tea. Its preparation is quite similar, which is why confusion is common. If you are unfamiliar with rooibos, know that it is a very good alternative to tea if you wish to enjoy a hot drink in the late afternoon or evening, without experiencing stimulating or energising effects. This famous red tea is simply steeped in hot water.
Red tea, a characteristic flavour dominated by hazelnut
In terms of taste, African rooibos red tea again bears little resemblance to tea. It has no bitterness even if you let it steep for a long time. On the contrary, red rooibos tea is naturally sweet and is characterised by a delicate hazelnut flavour. It is a very gentle drink that lends itself to indulgent blends when combined with vanilla, fruits or flowers. It also features in blends aimed at relaxation or digestion. And since it contains no caffeine, rooibos can be enjoyed throughout the day.
Red tea comes in a wide range of aromas, to suit all desires and tastes. Traditionally, it is consumed in South Africa with milk and sugar. But since its natural taste is already slightly sweet, you can perfectly well avoid adding any. This also makes it a drink well suited to a diet! Rooibos can be enjoyed as it is or blended with other flavours to create unique and original mixes. For example, it pairs perfectly with fruits such as orange or apple. Did you also know that it can enhance a dessert?
What is rooibos?
Once oxidised and dried, the Aspalathus linearis leaves form needles of varying lengths in a red colour. This is what is known as red tea or rooibos. This delicious drink comes straight from South Africa, the only place where these remarkable plants are cultivated. Aspalathus linearis is grown on mid-altitude plantations.
Naturally rich in antioxidants, rooibos is, just like green tea or black tea, an excellent health ally. Lightly fermented, the leaves are presented in fine pieces, to be steeped in hot water. Rooibos can then be enjoyed hot or cold, according to your preference. And even in the evening, making it an ideal drink for those who fear insomnia related to caffeine!
Traditional red rooibos, a centuries-old drink
Red rooibos has been consumed for centuries by indigenous peoples who attribute many virtues to it. This centuries-old drink is the traditional South African beverage.
Organic red rooibos tea is harvested during the first three months of the year: when it is summer in South Africa. It is worth knowing that the plant lives on average seven years and that one must wait a year and a half for the first harvest. The harvested leaves are then lightly moistened and they oxidise for 8 to 24 hours. It is during this stage that they take on their characteristic red-orange hue. The leaves then dry in the sun before being sterilised and packaged, until they finally reach your cup!
Green rooibos: an enhanced antioxidant content
A newcomer, green rooibos is in fact a rooibos that has undergone no oxidation. Its flavour is different, but it is also richer in antioxidants.
Just like tea, rooibos comes in different varieties. Recently arrived on the market, green rooibos is winning over more and more enthusiasts. It is an unfermented dried rooibos, which offers multiplied benefits. The harvest is carried out in the same way. However, green rooibos is not oxidised and therefore dries without the addition of water. Its antioxidant content is much higher, making it an ideal health ally. Its taste is more bitter and tangy, but it offers more health benefits.
Honeybush: a close cousin of rooibos
Honeybush is a cousin of rooibos that also belongs to the Fabaceae family. It has a characteristic honey taste, which gives it the name Heuningbos in Afrikaans, meaning literally "honey bush".
Less well-known than rooibos, honeybush also has some remarkable properties. This theine-free infusion with a slightly honeyed quality is characterised by its digestive, calming and antioxidant virtues. Honeybush is also very rich in trace elements and mineral salts. Good news: its benefits are therefore numerous. This drink helps to ease the unwanted effects of menopause, eliminates free radicals from our cells and has a beneficial effect on ageing.