Red rooibos tea is naturally caffeine free and is lower in the tannins that make tea bitter, giving it a smoother and milder finish. It has high levels of cancer preventing antioxidants and beneficial phenols without the caffeine of green and black tea. Research reveals that red rooibos tea contains an anti-spasmodic agent that is beneficial in relieving stomach cramping. Brewed rooibos tea has been used to soothe and relieve colic in infants.
Rooibos is now available in tea bags, but tea lovers still prefer loose rooibos leaves. There are a lot of devices available to simplify brewing tea with leaves, but they are not necessary. When going to the trouble to make rooibos tea from loose leaves, go all the way and allow the leaves to brew unrestrained. Whether the leaves are in tea bags or loose, keep them in a sealed opaque container to protect the freshness.
For red rooibos tea, heat cold water until it just begins to boil. Other herbal teas and some blends need water just below the boiling point. Check the instructions if the tea is not pure red rooibos tea.
Keep the water hot while the tea brews. Choose a cup that will maintain its temperature long enough to brew tea. A mug is a good choice. Warm the cup by filling it with hot water while you heat the water for the tea.
Brewing the Perfect Cup of Red Rooibos Tea
- Heat cold water until it just begins to boil.
- Do not let the water boil, but take it off the heat just as boiling begins.
- Empty the mug and pour the water over the rooibos leaves or tea bag.
- Allow the tea to brew until the desired strength, 4 to 6 minutes is usually enough. Keep the water hot while brewing tea by covering the pre-heated cup with a lid or folded towel.
- When the rooibos tea brewing is complete, remove the tea bag or pour the tea through a strainer if using rooibos tea leaves.
- Enjoy red rooibos tea as it is, or add honey, sugar or milk. In South Africa it is normal to drink rooibos with milk and sugar, but elsewhere it is usually served plain or slightly sweetened.
Red rooibos tea is normally served hot, but can be refrigerated and served as iced tea.Either way, choose a calm peaceful place to enjoy it and let the tea be a release from the stresses of life.
Diane Watkins - Diane is a writer and educator, an avid reader and researcher, a loving wife and the mother of 4 sons. Based in Tampa Bay, she enjoys ...
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