The summer festive season is in full swing and we can’t think of a better way to quench our thirst and cool us down than with a refreshing homemade iced tea. Everyone knows homemade is always better!
Aside from being readily available at a whim, homemade iced tea is also a healthier alternative to store-bought iced teas.
Rooibos is a particularly great option for iced tea, coming with a multitude of health benefits and flavour options. Here are a few reasons why homemade rooibos iced tea is a must-try drink this summer.
A healthier alternative
Rooibos is a national treasure – though endemic to South Africa, it’s beloved by even those living abroad. The South African Rooibos Council has highlighted these benefits of consuming rooibos tea:
- Rooibos is high in antioxidants – in fact, it’s the only source of a potent antioxidant known as aspalathin.
- It’s caffeine-free, which means the whole family can enjoy it!
- Some animal studies have indicated that rooibos has cancer-fighting properties, can promote heart health and prevent diabetes.
- Athletes consume rooibos after sports activities to replenish electrolytes, making rooibos iced tea one of the best drinks to have after a hot day under the sun or swimming in the pool.
In addition to the above health benefits, homemade unsweetened ice tea contains a significantly lower amount of sugar when compared to store-bought alternatives.
Homemade iced tea doesn’t include any refined or artificial sweeteners, which can help cut down your daily sugar intake. But if you are in the mood for a little bit of sweetness, control the amount by adding a dash of honey or a selection of fresh fruit, such as berries, oranges and more
