In this newsletter, we read more about ground-breaking new research which suggests that Rooibos and Honeybush can be an effective sunscreen. Find out more about this below.

We also read more about a study that is investigating the potential protection that Rooibos might offer to petrol attendants who are exposed to harmful fumes. Find out more about how this study is being conducted in the full story below.

We also take a look at ten creative ways in which you can incorporate Rooibos into your everyday life.

All this and more below! 

Dr Lana Keet, a graduate from Stellenbosch University’s 2024 PhD student crop, has shown through diligent research that Rooibos and Honeybush contain properties that make them ideally suited to be used together as a sunscreen lotion that can protect against skin cancer. 

If taken to a production level, Keet’s remarkable research could bring less-expensive but highly effective sunscreens within reach of many South Africans for whom the products on the market are too expensive.

Click here to read the full article. 

Researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH) are studying whether Rooibos tea can protect petrol attendants from harmful petrochemical exposure. With workers facing daily contact with toxic fumes linked to serious health risks, the study examines Rooibos’ antioxidant properties as a potential shield against oxidative stress and DNA damage.

Research participants will drink Rooibos daily for six months while researchers assess its impact. Early findings are promising, but further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits. 

If successful, Rooibos could become a cost-effective health intervention for petrol attendants in South Africa.

Click here to read more.

Spring has arrived in Europe and, along with it, rising pollen counts and seasonal allergies. A recent article shared on the Dutch version of MSN has listed a range of natural remedies one can rely on to beat allergies which are usually prevalent during this season.

The article encourages one to use Rooibos as a means of relieving irritation of the respiratory tract. This is because Rooibos is naturally rich in quercetin and has interesting anti-allergic properties.

Click here to learn more.

The South African Rooibos Council has shared fun and practical ways to enjoy Rooibos beyond your teacup.

Some ideas include freezing Rooibos ice cubes for refreshing drinks or a soothing facial treatment, infusing it into mocktails and marinades, or brewing it into a natural dye for fabrics and Easter eggs. One can also incorporate Rooibos into your beauty routine with a steam facial, DIY lip balm, or homemade bath bombs for a spa-like experience at home.

To discover these and other unique ways to use Rooibos in your everyday life, click here.