One question that frequently comes up during our client conversations is what is Green Rooibos? Let us look a little closer at this wonderful tea and learn what it is and what it has to offer.

What Is Green Rooibos?

Green Rooibos is an herbal tea (technically called a tisane) made from the very same plant leaves from where we get regular (red) Rooibos. The difference is in how the leaves are processed just like with black tea and green tea. The raw leaves from the Rooibos plant are not oxidized (like real green tea) and so the tea is lighter-bodied, lighter in taste, and very high in healthful antioxidants.

Does It Contain Green Tea?

Green tea comes from the true tea plant called Camellia sinensis which is a different plant from both Green and Red Rooibos. The Rooibos plant, which is native to South Africa, is called Aspalathus linearis (which means "red bush") - so these two “green teas” come from two totally different plants.

Does Green Rooibos Have Caffeine?

The Rooibos plant and all its teas are naturally caffeine-free!

How Does Green Rooibos Taste?

If you have tried regular (red) Rooibos, then you have experienced its distinctive piney-citric notes and a deep bodied cup with no astringency. Some people find this character of Rooibos to be a bit medicinal and off-putting. We are happy to report that Green Rooibos is much lighter bodied and delicately fruity in character, yet shares the lack of astringency. Due to this lighter body and fruitiness, it makes a wonderful base for blending. Every tea blender should have this caffeine-free, pleasant tasting, high-antioxidant herb in their tea line!

Is It Healthy?

Green Rooibos is loaded with antioxidants, roughly as much as regular green tea but again, without caffeine so you can have it day or night! It also is a natural muscle soother and has calming effects. Some studies have shown that Rooibos and Green Rooibos are helpful in soothing seasonal allergies. How lovely!

How Do You Brew It?

Rooibos and Green Rooibos are very easy and forgiving to brew! Both can handle boiling temp water and accidentally long infusions without getting bitter or astringent. A good starting point for steeping is 1 tsp (2 grams) of leaves for every 8 oz of water. Steep in 212F (100C) water for 7-10 minutes and enjoy! Rooibos of both kinds are very good hot or iced, blended or pure!

How Do You SAY It?

The most common way to said Rooibos outside of South Africa is "ROY-boss." Locally, it is pronounced "ROY-bosh" but can vary by dialect. Don't worry though. We know what you mean if you say "roo-EE-booz." Haha!

We hope you learned a little about Green Rooibos! Please checkout out our loose-leaf tea blends that contain it, as well as our pure Green Rooibos for wholesale purchase.