Rooibos Research

More evidence that Rooibos protects the heart
A recent study in Spain confirms the findings of a 2009 South African study which shows a very favourable effect in adults, at risk of heart disease, who drank six cups of Rooibos every day for six weeks. Read more.

Rooibos may help to prevent diabetes
New research findings from Spain prove that Rooibos protects liver and may help to prevent metabolic disease. “The researchers point out that, by preventing the liver from storing excessive amounts of fat, Rooibos may prevent the development of more serious health conditions.”
Read more.

Rooibos and Infant Ailments
The soothing effects of Rooibos on colicky, restless babies was first discovered by a Clanwilliam nursing sister, who realised its value as a remedy for stomach cramps in infants.
Studies in Japan and South Africa have demonstrated the presence in Rooibos of the flavonols, quercetin and luteolin, known for their antispasmodic and calming effect.

Rooibos and Disease
In separate studies conducted at PROMEC by Medical Research Council researchers Dr Jeanine Marnewick and Ms Petra Snijman, Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and green (non-fermented) Rooibos were found to contain potent antioxidants, which offer protection against cell damage and mutation that result in diseases such as cancer.
Rooibos is brimming with polyphenols, which help protect the body from damage by free radicals, those dangerous organisms that attack healthy cells and weaken the body's resistance to disease, resulting in the development of atherosclerosis, arthritis, heart disease, cancer, diabetes and senile dementia, among others. Research carried out at the University of Stellenbosch's Department of Food Science by A von Gadow, E Joubert and CF Hansmann confirmed that the polyphenol content of Rooibos is comparable with that of green tea, long touted as a powerful source of disease-fighting antioxidants.
Research carried out by Dr E Joubert and Dr Daneel Ferreira supports these findings, describing in detail the antioxidant properties of the flavonoids in Rooibos. A cup or two of Rooibos a day will help your body fight the damage caused by pollution, smoking and sunlight by helping to bolster your immune system.

Rooibos and Skin
A study carried out in Japan established that patients with dermatitis showed a significant decrease in their itching when drinking Rooibos.
Similarly, acne and psoriasis sufferers showed a marked improvement after drinking Rooibos, as did those with recurrent Herpes simplex and verrucas.

Rooibos and Hair
Studies undertaken by cosmetic pharmaceutical company Cosmetochem International at an independent laboratory in France showed that people suffering from hair loss, when using a hair lotion containing Rooibos, had a significant increase in hair-growth speed, reported less hair loss and a general improvement in hair condition, and experienced no allergic reactions