How Rooibos can correct common winter bodily imbalances

Unsettled weather, coupled with lack of sunshine, colds and flu, and reduced physical activity are all synonymous with the winter season, but the combination of these factors can also disturb the body’s equilibrium.

Incorporating certain foods and herbs such as Rooibos tea into our diet can help to correct these bodily imbalances naturally.

Signs that our bodies are not in balance could include indigestion, joint pain, dehydration, dry skin, reduced metabolism, high blood pressure, depression, and lingering colds and flu.

Restricted circulation

Professor Christo Muller, Chief Scientist at the SA Medical Research Council says chilly, wintery weather usually results in less blood supply to the extremities, since blood is moved to the interior of the body to protect vital organs against falling temperatures. However, this also has a downside.

Slower blood circulation tends to impair the immune system and diminish its ability to stave off the common cold and flu viruses, especially in the elderly and compromised individuals.

Picture Thinkstock

“Drinking hot Rooibos tea throughout the day will not only help to warm up the body, but its soothing effect can help reduce general anxiety and tense muscles to relax. It’s beneficial effects on the body’s antioxidant defences will also give the immune system an added boost,” he says.

Power of polyphenols

Rooibos contain polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral qualities that help with fighting colds and flu, and other diseases. Rooibos polyphenols, such as aspalathin, also help control the production of the stress hormone called cortisol, known to cause hormonal disturbances.

Muller says wintertime typically also correlates with increases in blood pressure. “Colder weather may increase blood pressure as the blood vessels tense up. Rooibos tea is known as a bronchodilator, which not only relieves respiratory conditions, but may also reduce high blood pressure.

“It works in a similar fashion to ACE inhibitors and helps blood vessels to relax and widen, making it easier for blood to flow through.”

Exercise and depression

Winter darkness and lack of outdoor activity can also negatively affect one’s mood and in some cases cause seasonal affective disorder – a category of depression that emerges particularly during the winter season.

Picture: iStock

“One of the best ways to naturally improve our mood is by eating a wholesome diet containing fruit, vegetables and fish that help protect against oxidative stress – a risk factor for developing disorders such as depression,” notes Muller.

“Adding Rooibos to your daily diet supplements your intake of beneficial polyphenols without adding extra calories. Experts recommend drinking up to six cups a day for optimal health benefits.”

Rooibos’ anti-spasmodic properties also help soothe the digestive tract and may also help prevent and alleviate joint pain and arthritis, which tend to worsen during the cold winter months.

So, the next time you put the kettle on this winter, be sure to make Rooibos your go-to cuppa.

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