The local wonder herb
People have been talking and writing about the health benefits of Rooibos since the late 1960’s.
A convincing body of research confirming the potential health properties of Rooibos has been built up, with many articles on the properties and health benefits of Rooibos published in South African and International scientific literature.
Several scientists in SA and around the world are continuing to test and analyse Rooibos intensively to evaluate and fully discover this national treasure’s health properties
Below are 8 beauty and skin related benefits already discovered and now being actively used in Rooibos skincare products to benefit people using the product as a preventative and/or relieving/recovering mechanism
Cell Renewal
Rooibos contains zinc, which is essential to the skin’s metabolism, as well as its own natural alphahydroxy acid, which is believed to smooth and refine fine lines and wrinkles.
Studies by Dr Rabia Johnson, Principal Investigator and Senior Specialist Scientist at the SA Medical Research Council (SAMRC) have shown that the antioxidant potential of Rooibos can reduce cell death. Cell death occurs more rapidly when chronic disease, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes is present, while Rooibos can reduce this while keeping vital organs healthy. This finding will be further explored by clinical trails
The abundance of polyphenols (antioxidants) – natural compounds found in Rooibos – give Rooibos restorative power
Anti-Ageing
Rooibos contains high amounts of the enzyme, superoxide dismutase, which is an effective anti-ageing substance. As such, Rooibos reduces wrinkles and boosts the production of healthy skin cells
The high concentration of polyphenolic compounds (micronutrients) in Rooibos is what makes it so sought-after as a health and beauty enhancer.
Polyphenols act as antioxidants that protect the body against inflammation. It neutralises harmful free radicals that would otherwise damage cells and so prevents premature ageing.
Antioxidant
Rooibos is a giant source of antioxidants and is the only known source of a powerful antioxidant aspalathin. This powerful antioxidant finds and removes harmful free oxygen radicals that can damage the DNA of the cell and hinder normal cell functions. According to the Rooibos Council, aspalathin can also play a role in combating several lifestyle related diseases
Rooibos also contains high levels of the antioxidants nothofagin and superoxide dismutase, which also protect the body and skin from harmful free radicals.
Anti-Inflammatory
The high flavonoid levels in Rooibos is a natural anti-inflammatory and will help to soothe and relieve inflamed skin and helps to improve skin disorders like eczema.
Inflammation is a major cause of acne and when your skin is damaged, it’s more vulnerable to bacteria which can aggravate acne. In addition to Rooibos’ anti-inflammatory response, it also contains antibacterial properties that will help fight acne.
Antiviral
Aspalatin and nothafagin are two vital antioxidants found in Rooibos, making it a great beverage to boost immunity, while protecting the body against all types of diseases.
Anti-bacterial
In addition to the tea’s anti-inflammatory response, it also contains antibacterial properties that will help fight acne. Rooibos extracts have also been reported to possess antimicrobial activity
Anti-Peroxyl Radical Quality and Antibacterial Properties of Rooibos Infusions and Their Pure Glycosylated Polyphenolic Constituents
Anti-allergenic
Rooibos contain quercertin, a natural anti-histamine that calms and treats irritated areas on the skin. Rooibos contains no harmful chemicals or preservatives, which may produce allergic reactions or further skin damage
Rooibos can help to fight allergies by boosting the production of cytochrome P450, an important enzyme that helps to metabolise allergens.
Japanese researchers found that when Rooibos is consumed regularly as a beverage, it helps to improve allergy status as a result of the increased levels of this enzyme in the body
Skin Soothing
Rooibos calms and soothes irritated skin. Countless research projects have proven that Rooibos’ anti-allergic properties are ideal for skin emergencies including sunburn, chafing and eczema
Rooibos also contain quercertin, a natural anti-histamine that calms and treats irritated areas on the skin
The abundance of polyphenols (antioxidants) – natural compounds found in Rooibos – gives Rooibos its restorative power, helping skin to recover