6 Benefits of Rooibos Tea

What does rooibos tea do for your body?

Rooibos tea is packed with antioxidants, supports heart health, aids digestion, boosts the immune system, and provides natural allergy relief. It’s caffeine-free, making it great for relaxation and stress relief.

The laundry list of benefits of rooibos tea will surprise you, whether you’re new to herbal teas or a seasoned tea enthusiast. Originating from the rugged landscapes of South Africa, rooibos tea has been enjoyed for centuries for its rich, naturally sweet flavor and numerous health benefits. It deserves a spot in the daily routine of any tea lover.

Honey's Tea also has some pretty incredible Rooibos blends that you’ll want to check out. From our cozy Rooibos Coconut Chai to the indulgent White Chocolate Pistachio Rooibos, there’s a flavor for every taste and personality.

We’ll walk you through Rooibos tea and its top benefits. Looking for seasonal allergy relief without a pill? Perhaps a natural immune boost or support for a healthy heart? Keep reading, because rooibos tea’s got you covered.

What is Rooibos Tea?

Rooibos (pronounced "roy-boss") is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis shrub, which grows in South Africa. Unlike green or black tea, rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and known for its smooth, naturally sweet flavor. 

There are two types: red rooibos, which is fermented and has a rich, earthy taste, and green rooibos, which is unfermented and has a lighter, more herbal flavor. Packed with antioxidants and health benefits, rooibos has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to gain popularity worldwide as a wellness drink.

Rooibos Tea Benefits

1. Antioxidant Power of Rooibos (Because Who Doesn’t Want to Stay Young?)

Rooibos is your skin’s best friend. It’s packed with antioxidants like aspalathin, which help fight off free radicals—those unstable molecules that speed up aging and cause all kinds of health drama. Fewer wrinkles? Yes, please.

But it doesn’t stop there. Rooibos also contains alpha hydroxy acids and zinc, which can help clear up acne, boost that glow, and even support healthier hair. Basically, it’s your anti-aging, skin-loving, hair-helping hero—all in one delicious cup.

If you’re looking for a way to keep wrinkles at bay, Rooibos has your back—or, more appropriately, your face!

Our Green Rooibos is a lighter, fresher alternative to traditional rooibos. It’s perfect for those seeking its antioxidant benefits with a more delicate flavor. 

2. Rooibos Tea for Heart Health

Not only does rooibos taste good; it’s also good for your heart. It contains flavonoids that have antioxidant properties and have been linked to lower blood pressure and improved circulation. Some studies even suggest that rooibos can help lower cholesterol.

Next time you're sipping on Rooibos Bourbon Vanilla, you’re doing your heart a favor. What a great feeling to drink a smooth, sweet tea beverage that’s also helping your heart!

3. Managing Type 2 Diabetes

The aspalathin in rooibos has also been linked to improved blood sugar control. It helps increase glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity, making it a great option for those managing, or at risk of, type 2 diabetes. 

Drinking rooibos tea regularly could help keep blood sugar levels stable, supporting overall metabolic health.

For a light, refreshing option, try Turmeric Ginger Peach Tea, packed with antioxidants that may help regulate blood sugar and support a healthy lifestyle.

4. Allergy Relief the Natural Way

Suffering from allergies? Rooibos is a natural remedy. It contains bioflavonoids like quercetin which help block the release of histamine, the compound responsible for those pesky allergy symptoms.

Rooibos may help soothe the discomfort of either seasonal allergies or year-round sensitivities. It’s a gentle, caffeine-free way to find relief without relying on over-the-counter medications.

Reach for a cup of Medicine Ball Tea for a cozy, soothing sip the next time allergies flare. It’s an easy way to help you breathe easier.

5. A Caffeine-Free Pick-Me-Up

If you’re looking to reduce your caffeine intake (or maybe just trying to reach for something other than another cup of coffee?) rooibos is the caffeine-free superhero of herbal tea. You can enjoy a cup any time of day without risking coffee-induced palpitations or jittery hands.

Orange Creamsicle Rooibos is the perfect choice if you want a sweet and flavorful tea that won’t keep you up all night. It’s like drinking a favorite childhood treat, but much healthier.

6. Digestive Support: The Natural Way

We can all agree that our digestive systems don’t always work like they should, but rooibos tea is here to help. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can ease stomach cramps and support healthy digestion. Drinking rooibos can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. This helps the muscles in the stomach and intestines relax to relieve cramping and discomfort.

The antioxidants in rooibos work to lower inflammation. This not only can help soothe cramps but can also relieve symptoms of indigestion, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Rooibos can help prevent or ease bloating and discomfort by calming irritation and reducing inflammation. It’s a gentle yet effective choice for digestive relief.

Make a cup of Caramel Candy Vanilla Rooibos when you need digestive support. It’s the most simple way to soothe an upset stomach while enjoying a flavorful beverage.

Why Rooibos Should Be Your Next Wellness Drink

Whether you're in it for the antioxidants, heart health, or simply because it tastes amazing, rooibos tea has something to offer everyone. It’s a versatile, caffeine-free tea that you can enjoy any time of day, for any reason. From morning to night, this tea fits seamlessly into your wellness routine.

With blends like Rooibos Bourbon Vanilla and Orange Creamsicle Rooibos, there’s no reason not to make Rooibos part of your daily life. Browse our Rooibos collection today and find your new favorite tea.

Still steeping?

Rooibos is just the beginning. Discover more about tea traditions, benefits, and what’s in your cup:

Green Tea Benefits – Energizing, antioxidant-rich, and a wellness staple

What is white tea? – Light, delicate, and packed with anti-aging properties

How to Make Matcha Tea – A step-by-step guide to this frothy, focused brew

Does Tea Have Caffeine? – Get the facts (and myths) about tea and energy

Sources:

1. Afrifa D, Engelbrecht L, Eijnde BO, Terblanche E. The health benefits of rooibos tea in humans (aspalathus linearis)-a scoping review. J Public Health Afr. 2023 Dec 1;14(12):2784. doi: 10.4081/jphia.2023.2784. PMID: 38204815; PMCID: PMC10774856.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38204815/

2. Piek H, Venter I, Rautenbach F, Marnewick JL. Rooibos herbal tea: An optimal cup and its consumers. Health SA. 2019 Feb 21;24:1090. doi: 10.4102/hsag.v24i0.1090. PMID: 31934411; PMCID: PMC6917459.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31934411/

3. Sasaki M, Nishida N, Shimada M. A Beneficial Role of Rooibos in Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Molecules. 2018 Apr 6;23(4):839. doi: 10.3390/molecules23040839. PMID: 29642387; PMCID: PMC6017582.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29642387/