Why Rooibos for our Decaf Turmeric Chai?

Choosing Rooibos tea as the base for our microground decaf Turmeric Chai (soon to be renamed Rooibos Chai) offered us a range of benefits that cater to both taste and health preferences for those who love our microground tea mixes but may be trying to reduce caffeine while not compromising on the lovely flavours of a traditional chai that uses black tea as the base.

Rooibos (pronounced ROY-boss) tea comes from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, a shrub native to South Africa. Known for its distinctive reddish-brown color, Rooibos has been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in its home region, and has in recent years, gained global popularity.  Grown exclusively in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa, where the dry climate and sandy soils provide the perfect conditions for the hardy shrub with needle-like leaves which are harvested, fermented, and dried to produce the tea.

Rooibos gives us so many interesting reasons to choose it as our base in making our Decaf Rooibos Tea:

It’s Caffeine-Free by Nature

Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it an ideal choice for those who want to avoid caffeine for health reasons, such as managing anxiety, improving sleep quality, or reducing heart rate issues.

Unlike decaffeinated black or green teas, Rooibos doesn’t go through a chemical decaffeination process, nature does that for us… 

It’s Rich in Antioxidants

Rooibos tea is packed with powerful antioxidants like aspalathin and nothofagin. These compounds may help combat oxidative stress, which may lower the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall wellness.

It’s Gentle on the Stomach

Rooibos tea is particularly suitable for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive concerns:

• It is Low in Tannins: Tannins, found in black and green teas, can irritate the stomach lining and reduce iron absorption. Rooibos has very low tannin levels, making it gentler and more stomach friendly.
• There Are Virtually No Acidity Issues: It lacks the acidity that some herbal or traditional teas may have, which can trigger heartburn or acid reflux in sensitive individuals.
• It Has Benn Used for Centuries as a Digestive Aid: Rooibos contains quercetin and other flavonoids that may help reduce inflammation and ease mild digestive discomforts like cramps or bloating.

Rooibos Has a Unique and Distinct Flavor Profile

Rooibos tea’s flavor profile is not only distinct, but also versatile and appealing to a wide range of palates.  Rooibos has a mild, natural sweetness with earthy and nutty undertones. Unlike many herbal teas, it doesn’t require sweeteners to be enjoyable (although when you try our Rooibos Chai mix, we think you will be pleasantly surprised at how well it pairs with sweet and spice)

Rooibos also lacks the astringency or bitterness found in black and green teas due to its low tannin content. This makes Rooibos exceptionally smooth and easy to drink.  It truly makes Rooibos a drink that will be much more appealing to you, your friends and family.

Rooibos is Also Calming and Relaxing

Rooibos tea is renowned for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress as it contains bioactive compounds like aspalathin, which may help reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. This makes it a natural choice for unwinding after a long day.

As we have already stated, unlike traditional black teas normally found in Classic Chai mixes, we use Rooibos as it doesn’t contain caffeine, which can contribute to jitters or heightened stress. This makes it an ideal beverage for promoting calmness without stimulating the nervous system.  Many people enjoy Rooibos as an evening tea due to its naturally soothing properties, making it a great alternative to herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint. Its lack of caffeine won’t disrupt sleep cycles.

Rooibos Give Us Versatile Brewing Options

• Strong Base for Spices: Rooibos can handle a robust blend of spices we use in our Rooibos Chai tea mix and still maintain its flavor, creating a well-balanced chai.
• Pairing with Milk: Like black tea, Rooibos pairs beautifully with milk or plant-based alternatives, creating a creamy and indulgent chai latte.
• Brew Strength: Rooibos can be steeped for longer without becoming overly strong, allowing the spices to fully infuse.

Rooibos is a flavorful, caffeine-free alternative to black tea in a traditional chai masala like our Rooibos Chai tea mix.  Its natural sweetness, smooth texture, and health benefits make it a great choice for those seeking a gentler, yet equally satisfying, version of this beloved spiced tea mix. 

We are sure that you will thoroughly enjoy our decaf option created for you.  Enjoy 😊