November is not just about growing your facial hair in celebration of Movember, it is also a time to think about your overall health and the daily choices you make for your well-being.
Besides doing regular exercise, setting aside time for yourself and eating as well as possible, one of the easiest (and most affordable) ways to boost your health is by drinking two cups of Rooibos tea a day…seriously! Check out these ten reasons why Rooibos tea is a must-have power drink:
Keeps high blood pressure in check: Rooibos is known as a bronchodilator, which not only relieves respiratory conditions, but generally reduces high blood pressure.
Prostate health: The tisane’s anti-inflammatory properties may be of interest to men who want to maintain prostate health, as inflammation has been linked to prostate issues.
Boosts male fertility: The high antioxidant levels in Rooibos could support healthy sperm and a higher sperm count.
Improves heart health: Quercetin, another powerful antioxidant found in Rooibos, has been linked to the prevention of a wide variety of heart conditions. It promotes HDL (good cholesterol) and inhibits LDL (bad cholesterol) from adhering to the walls of arteries and blood vessels. This means added protection against various heart conditions, including arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
Builds and repairs muscle tissue: Not only do Rooibos’ free-radical fighting antioxidants help you look and feel younger by slowing down the ageing process, but these also assist with improved recovery after exercise.
Reduced risk of diabetes: One of the rare antioxidants found only in Rooibos, is Aspalathin which helps to balance blood sugar, reduce insulin resistance and increase glucose absorption through the muscles. Aspalathin also boosts insulin production in the pancreas. This acts as a defensive shield against the development of type 2 diabetes.
Enhances physical performance: Athletes will also benefit from Rooibos’ antioxidants that help to fight inflammation, boost circulation and heal damaged muscle tissue. Rooibos also helps the body to absorb iron, which enhances the delivery of oxygen to the muscles – critical for endurance racing.
Lowers cancer-risk: Research conducted at the SA Medical Research Council found that in combination with a healthy lifestyle, both green (unfermented) and traditional (fermented) Rooibos, significantly inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
Less stress: Rooibos is known for its calming and stress-relieving properties, which can also be beneficial for mental well-being.
Digestive health: The tisane also aids digestion and can alleviate abdominal discomfort, which is beneficial for overall gastrointestinal health.
For more reasons to drink up your cup of Rooibos, visit the SA Rooibos Council.
