Tag: Redbush

The terms "rooibos" and "redbush" are used interchangeably because they refer to the exact same herbal plant infusion from South Africa. A staggering number of tea enthusiasts worldwide are surprised to learn that there is no difference between rooibos and redbush tea. The distinction in naming is primarily a regional preference, with "redbush" being more common in Great Britain, while "rooibos" is the name used in its native country and is the internationally recognized term.

According to botanists, the key difference lies in the plant family: rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is a legume, not a true tea plant (Camellia sinensis). This fundamental difference is why you don't have to wonder, 'is rooibos tea high in caffeine?'.

A survey conducted by the South African Rooibos Council found that nearly all rooibos produced is naturally caffeine-free. This makes rooibos tea a popular and soothing alternative for those looking to reduce or eliminate their caffeine intake, offering a warm, rich flavor without the stimulating effects.

Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free because it comes from the *Aspalathus linearis* plant, native to South Africa, and not the *Camellia sinensis* plant used for traditional teas. This botanical difference is why rooibos is stimulant-free.