A Journey to Cape Town: The Science Behind Rooibos

Let's journey from Japan to the southern tip of Africa: Cape Town, South Africa - where the word's only source of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) thrives.

Rooibos is a leguminous shrub native to the Cederberg region, approximately 250 kilometres north of Cape Town. This area's unique environmental conditions make it the sole habitat suitable for the plant's growth.

Located at elevations exceeding 450 metres above sea level, the Cederberg Mountains experience extreme climatic variations, from winter temperatures near 0°C (May – August) to summer highs above 40°C (October – March), coupled with low annual rainfall. The iron-rich, sandy soils of this ancient region, formed from mineral deposits of prehistoric seabeds, contribute to the plant’s characteristic reddish hue and complex mineral profile.

Despite extensive agricultural trials, Rooibos has gained popularity in Japan, where it aligns with a growing preference for naturally caffeine-free and health-promoting beverages. It is low in tannins, contains no caffeine and is rich in polyphenolic antioxidants such as aspalathin and nothofagin, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential cardioprotective properties. 

Scientific research suggests that regular consumption of Rooibos may:

• Support cardiovascular health by modulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Aid in glycaemic control by improving insulin sensitivity
• Promote bone health due to its natural content of calcium, magnesium and fluoride
• Contribute to anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory effects through free radical scavenging
• Assist sleep quality and relaxation, owing to its absence of caffeine
• Enhance digestive comfort and iron absorption, due to its low tannin content
• Rooibos stands as a remarkable example of how a plant's biochemistry and ecology are inextricably linked to its environment and how traditional herbal infusions can bridge wellness practices across continents.

It's no coincidence that Rooibos has found a devoted following in Japan.

A culture that celebrates ritual, purity, and balance in every cup of tea naturally embraces this South African infusion, one that offers calm energy, rich antioxidants, and a connection to the earth. Rooibos bridges two worlds of wellness: the rugged Cederberg mountains where it grows, and the serene tea culture of Japan where it is cherished.