Starwest Botanicals is pleased to offer a cut and sifted form of our organic Rooibos Tea. This is an herbal tea made from the Asplanthus linearis plant, which is part of the legume plant family. Our Asplanthus linearis, which is the Latin name for the plant from which Rooibos Tea is derived, comes to us from a supplier in South Africa, where this drink has been popular for years.
The tea has a red tint to it when dry, and because of this it is sometimes known as red tea, redbush tea, or South African red tea. The leaves turn red when they are oxidized, which is part of the process that goes into making this delicious tea. Oxidation also helps to bring out the leaves' distinctive flavor. Rooibos Tea is often served black, because it is naturally sweet tasting, although sugar and cream can be added. It is a caffeine-free beverage that is also high in antioxidants.