Rooibos: The Caffeine-Free Red Bush Tea
8 June 2026

Rooibos tea is also known as red tea or red bush tea. It is made using leaves from a shrub called Aspalathus linearis, usually grown on the western coast of South Africa. Rooibos is a herbal tea and is not related to green or black tea. Rooibos tea consumed in southern Africa for centuries, it has become a beloved drink around the world. It’s a flavorful, caffeine-free alternative to black and green tea.
Traditional rooibos is created by fermenting the leaves, which turns them a red-brown color. Green rooibos, which is not fermented, is also available. It tends to be more expensive and grassier in flavor than the traditional version of the tea, while also boasting more antioxidants.
Low in Tannins and Free from Caffeine and Oxalic Acid Tannins, natural compounds present in green and black tea, interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron. Unlike black tea and green tea, to a lesser extent; red rooibos contains no oxalic acid. Consuming high amounts of oxalic acid can increase your risk of kidney stones, making rooibos a good option for anyone with kidney problems.
Packed With Antioxidants May Boost Heart Health Rooibos tea may benefit heart health by positively affecting blood pressure. It may also lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and raise “good” HDL cholesterol in those at risk of heart disease.
Rooibos is a key ingredient in our herbal teas “Ultimate Health“ and “Relax and sleep”. Please visit our website for more information.
This article is general information about herbs and tea and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Speak to a qualified health professional before making changes to your diet or health routine.
