Earl Grey Rooibos

Description

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is a small, antioxidant-rich shrub in the legume family that only grows in a single mountain range in South Africa. The needle-like leaves are fermented, which produces the tisane’s characteristic red color and sweet, nutty flavor.  Its lack of tannins prevents it from becoming bitter when brewed, unlike true tea, which is made from the Camellia sinensis plant (for instance black, green, oolong and white teas). Also in contrast to tea, rooibos is caffeine-free.

Rooibos was originally cultivated by the Khoi San people of the Cederberg Mountains, who have used it both as a beverage and as an herbal remedy for many ailments.

Earl Grey tea is a simple blend, usually made of black tea combined with oil of bergamot (Citrus bergamia), a type of citrus fruit about the size of an orange. Named after the city in northern Italy where it was first grown, bergamot is known for its antibiotic, antiseptic, analgesic, sedative and digestive properties. Its citrusy scent may help to brighten a bad day.

Standard Brewing: Steep 3 tsp of Earl Grey Rooibos in 8 oz of boiling water for 6 minutes.

To experiment with the flavor of this tea, try adjusting the ratio of tea to water, the water temperature, or the steeping time.

Ingredients: organic rooibos, natural bergamot essential oil