Green or Unfermented
Rooibos
Green Rooibos comes
from the same plant as the popular "Red Rooibos" - it is actually nothing else
than the un-oxidized (unfermented) form of Red Rooibos. The Cederberg region of
the Western Cape of South Africa is the only place it is grown in the world.
This small leguminous shrub has needle like leaves and fine stems with tiny
yellow flowers. Green Rooibos is handpicked in the summer, and then
immediately allowed to dry without
exposing it to the sun. Green Rooibos has increased effectiveness of Red Rooibos’
therapeutic properties due to the elimination of oxidization, thus boosting the
levels of flavanoids and anti-oxidants.
PROPERTIES
The main constituents of Green Rooibos are phenolic carboxylic and
hydroxybenzoic acids; flavones: luteolin, quercetin, rutin, and aspalathin;
non-phenolic metabolites; and inositols. Rooibos contains high quantities of a
powerful anti-oxidant that mimics SOD (super oxide dismutase) activity, the most
aggressive natural protection against free radical damage. Moreover, Rooibos
contains minerals and is low in
tannin.
HEALTH BENEFITS
- Green
Rooibos has the same health claims as Rooibos, yet, since it is
un-oxidized, some of the benefits are increased as much as 30 to 40 times!
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-
Flavones are not only one of the strongest anti-oxidants, but are also
essential for the complete absorption of vitamin C.
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Furthermore, flavones are inhibitors of allergic mediator release from
mast cells and have the ability to stop allergic reactions.
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- Green
Rooibos has a soothing effect on the central nervous system, reduces
tension in the body and can ease psychological tension as well, and is
known to help people suffering from irritability, headaches, disturbed
sleeping patterns, insomnia, nervous tension and mild depression or
hypertension.
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- Green
Rooibos aids in the relief of stomach and indigestive problems like
nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach ulcers and constipation.
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MINERAL CONTENT OF GREEN ROOIBOS |
| |
mg / 8 oz. cup |
% RDA 8 oz. cup |
|
Iron |
0.1 |
0.5 |
|
Potassium |
9.0 |
0.2 |
|
Calcium |
1.0 |
0.1 |
|
Copper |
0.1 |
4.0 |
|
Magnesium |
2.0 |
0.5 |
|
Sodium |
7.0 |
0.3 |
|
Zinc |
0.05 |
0.3 |
|
Manganese |
0.05 |
2.0 |
RDA = Recommended
Daily Allowance ** not established
FYI - When simmered for 15 minutes the flavor is stronger and health properties
increased.
PREPARATION
The active constituents of Green Rooibos, if simmered or steeped for 10-15
minutes, are stronger and more accessible to the body. Steep tea bags as long as
desired. Like regular Rooibos, the tea will not go
bitter.
