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Rooibos Organic |
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Rooibos Organic
ROOIBOS - Organic
(Aspalanthus linearis)
History and Folklore
Rooibos, is an endemic herb of the mountainous regions of the Western Cape, known as the Cedarberg mountains. It is a member of the pea family, whose name simply means 'red bush' in Afrikaans in allusion to the colour of the infusion made from its leaves. However, the tea only develops this colour after the herb has undergone a fermentation process similar to that of black tea, which completely changes its flavour. Unfermented leaves produce a yellowish/green tea. The fermentation technique was originally developed by the indigenous Khoi people (also known as 'bushmen'), who introduced white Afrikaans to their 'tea herb' in 1772. Ever since then it has slowly, but surely conquered the taste buds of the general population of South Africa and increasingly around the world. Commercial production began in 1930, but it wasn't until the dawn of the new millennium that the general public became aware of the fact that Rooibos doesn't just make a tasty brew, but also a very healthy one that lacks the tannin and caffeine of the regular cuppa. The mild flavoured, fruity tea is a very rich source of antioxidants, which have many well documented protective health benefits.
Medicinal Uses:
In general, Rooibos tea is simply enjoyed as a healthy alternative to regular tea or coffee. However, recent research has shown that it has a number of interesting health benefits. Rooibos is very rich in antioxidants (especially the unfermented type), which help fight the damaging attacks of free radicals and can thus help protect against serious cell damage. Free radicals play a role in the development of cancerous cell mutations. They are also protective against heart attacks and strokes. Animal studies have shown that Rooibos protects cells against radiation damage (better than green tea) and have also shown a significant protective effect against degenerative brain cell changes in aging rats. On the more empirical end of the scale, a South African woman started experimenting with possible health benefits of Rooibos after noticing that it had a calming effect on her baby's colic attacks and also seemed to have a positive effect on allergies. It was found that it was helpful for irritability, insomnia, headaches and nappy rash. There are also some claims that Rooibos has some protective effect on the liver, but much more research is necessary to substantiate any of these claims. Rooibos extract can sometimes be found as an additive in natural cosmetics and is said to be helpful in cases of eczema.
Magical Uses:
Not much is known about the traditional uses of Rooibos among the San and Khoi Khoi people. Modern practitioners may use is for rejuvenation and to promote inner peace. It can also be helpful for dream work.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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