Red Tea Benefits

Red tea benefits are being recognized throughout the world as the popularity of rooibos and honeybush teas take root. Red tea is acknowledged to possess anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its vaunted health benefits.

Red tea is an unofficial description for beverages that are derived from herbs grown in South Africa. Rooibos tea and honeybush tea are the herbal tisanes often marketed under the name 'red tea' and this is due to their being able to give off bright, often fiery shades that approximate the color red.

The name 'red tea' also refers to a Chinese tea from the camellia sinensis plant that also gives off a somewhat darker shade of red but this tea is more commonly classified as a type of black tea.

It is believed that the unique fermentation process of rooibos tea and honeybush tea produces the rich amber-red color where their official name is coined from. These red teas possess smooth, almost fruit-like tastes, which lack the vegetal and often tart aspect derived from the astringent tannins found in green tea.

Red tea has a lot of antioxidants that provide protection from free radical damage. Rooibos red tea is quite rich in the antioxidants aspalathin and nothofagin.

Among the vitamins and nutrients that abound in red tea are the following:

calcium
copper
iron
magnesium
manganese
potassium
sodium
vitamin C
zinc


Red tea also do not possess the caffeine content found in the true teas so these have a somewhat gentler, non-stimulating effect on the nerves and the heart. Red tea also does not contain oxalic acid so it may be safely taken by people with kidney problems.

Red tea is typically made by placing about a teaspoonful of rooibos or honeybush tea into a mug of newly-boiled water. Let it soak and steep for about 5 minutes. Strain and discard the herbs and enjoy the tea.

To relish and enjoy the fruity taste of red tea, and to fully derive its abundant health benefits, it is best taken as is. However, milk and sweeteners are often added to the brew nowadays as it also makes for a wonderful-tasting latte drink. However, there have been studies conducted on other teas that conclude that adding milk may reduce the health benefits.

The following are the health benefits attributed to red tea:

Red tea may help lower the risk for the development of cancer and tumors due to its considerable antioxidant content.

Red tea may help lower the risk for cardiovascular diseases as it may help control blood pressure.

Red tea may help enhance the immune system and keep viruses at bay.

Red tea may help manage allergies like hay fever, asthma and eczema.

Red tea may help promote healthy skin.

Red tea may help calm and soothe the nervous system, thus aiding in relaxation.

Red tea may help in alleviating colic in infants.