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Rooibos / Red or tea bush
Aspalathus linearis

Botanical Classification

Family
Fabaceae

Genus and specie
Aspalathus linearis (A. contaminatus)

Other names
Rotbusch.

Description of the herb
It is an erect shrub with reddish brown stems and dark green needle like leaves with a small yellow flower.

Parts used
The leaves and twigs are used, after being cut and bruised to allow enzymatic oxidation and then dried.

Properties
It is an aromatic, pleasant tasting and mildly astringent herb, that benefits the digestion and relaxes spasms, while giving some relief in allergic and skin conditions.
Several flavonoid glycosides are present such as dihydrochalcones aspalathin and nothofagin, as well as orientin, isoorientin and quercitrin.

Therapeutic uses
Internal use
It contains no stimulants and has a low tannin content and is often given to babies with colic. It makes a good non-stimulant health drink.
It forms the base of a range of health teas, since it improves the color and taste.
External use
It is used in some allergic skin conditions and is also used as a cosmetic ingredient, although some other herbs have better therapeutic qualities.
Aromatherapy and essential oil use
None noted.

Safety precautions and warnings

None noted.