If you have not heard about Rooibos before, that is probably because it is grown in a small area in South Africa - the Cederberg region. This plant is commonly used to produce the redbush tea (or red tea).

The plant is treated using oxidisation, which turns the leaves into reddish brown. Hence the name red tea. The color adds to the fragrance of the tea. Sometimes, the plants are processed in a different manner, which produces unoxidised green Rooibos. However, this process is more complicated, and therefore more costly. For this reason, green Rooibos is often more costly than the red tea leaves.

Rooibos tea is well known for having large amounts of antioxidants, even more than the popular green tea. As we all know, antioxidants help to get rid of harmful toxins in the body. For those who are conscious about health, drinking tea on a regular basis is a must. Rooibos, like many types of tea leaves, have also been found to contain lots of antioxidants. In addition, unlike green tea, Rooibos is naturally caffeine free and has low levels of tannin, which can be found in black tea or green tea.

Toxins are accumulated in the human body on a daily basis. Every single day, while we work and travel, we breath in or consume toxins unknowingly. They may be in the form of harmful gases such as carbon fumes (exuded by vehicles) or poisons such as pesticides. When consumed in small amounts, there is nothing to worry about because the body has natural defenses to fight against these toxins. However, if the level of toxins in the body is not regulated, the balance may be upset, which may lead to severe health problems.

Therefore, it is always wise to consume a moderate amount of antioxidants, which can help reduce the amount of harmful poisons in the body. The goal is to help maintain the balance and keep the body healthy. That is why Rooibos is fast becoming a popular ingredient in Western countries. Due to the high amounts of antioxidants in the leaves, this ingredient helps the body to get rid of stubborn toxins that linger in the body.

In addition, researchers have found that Rooibos helps to improve skin conditions as well. Besides being found in popular health foods, this ingredient can now be found in numerous beauty products. Research has shown the strong antioxidant properties the plant holds can also benefit the skin when included in skin care products. Asphalatin flavonoid content is said to fight signs of aging and have soothing effects on the skin for acne and eczema.

Here are some of the benefits of Rooibos in skin care.

1. The extracts is very useful when applied on the skin area to help soothe irritations such as itchy skin, sunburns, eczema, or acne.

2. Teenagers dealing with hormonal changes in their bodies may experience a more severe acne problem. Rooibos extracts can help the acne to heal and prevent the skin from getting too oily.

3. The skin of the human body is exposed to the harsh elements of the environment. Sometimes, it needs a little aid in healing. Rooibos extracts contain important ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acid and zinc that is just what the skin needs to grow healthily.

In addition to skincare, Rooibos, when consumed on a daily basis, helps with digestion, and have even been known to relieve stomach cramps. Sensitive people simply love this ingredient because it helps them relieve symptoms that are caused by allergies such as asthma or hay fever. Since antioxidants help to improve the immune system, those who consume Rooibos find that they have higher energy levels, and lead a more active life.

This ingredient, whether in tea or skincare products is mild enough to be suitable for all ages and both men and women.