Make Rooibos part of your colds and flu arsenal

In the battle against coughs and sniffles this winter season, a third of South Africans cited Rooibos tea among their top three colds and flu-fighting strategies.

This was revealed in a national survey conducted by a leading health firm specialising in colds and flu remedies. According to the survey which polled almost 2 000 respondents, South Africans’ first reaction to a cold is to:

1. load up on vitamin C,
2. get enough rest and,
3. sip on a hot cup of Rooibos mixed with honey, lemon and/or ginger

If you’re struggling with a sore throat, feeling congested or downright miserable, try the following Rooibos remedies:

Spicy Rooibos

Ingredients:

• A cup of strong Rooibos
• 1 tsp of lemon
• 1 tsp of honey
• ½ tsp of preferably fresh ginger (try a full tsp if it’s not too strong for you)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper

Method:

Pour boiling water into a cup or mug, add one Rooibos teabag and let it steep for at least 5 to 6 minutes. Add a teaspoon of lemon, honey, ginger and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

*If you prefer something cold, make your own herbal ice lollies or ice chips using the same Rooibos tea combination as above.

Rooibos, Strawberry and Orange Smoothie

 Ingredients for one serving

• 1 – 2 Rooibos tea bags
• 125 ml boiling water
• 225 g frozen strawberries
• ½ a peeled and chopped orange
• 125 g silken tofu
• 1 tbsp vanilla protein powder
• 1 tsp liquid honey, optional

Method

1. Put the Rooibos bags in a teapot or heatproof jug and pour over the water. Steep for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove the bag. Leave to cool.
2. Put the tea, berries, tofu and protein powder into a blender and process until smooth. Sweeten to taste with honey and pour into glasses. Serve immediately.

Handy tip:

• Silken tofu adds a lovely creamy richness
• Replace the rooibos tea bag with a red berries rooibos tea bag

“Whether you consume it hot or cold, Rooibos tea is a smart, natural choice which is sure to comfort and elevate your mood when you’re feeling under the weather,” remarks du Toit.

For more info regarding Rooibos’ many health benefits, visit www.sarooibos.co.za