Lemon is a particularly popular ingredient added to many different tea types, but one of its finest examples is, without a doubt, to our very own Rooibos Lemon Tea! The combination of Rooibos tea and lemon invigorates the blend’s naturally sweet taste with the addition of lemongrass giving this tea an extra zesty zing! This beverage can be enjoyed piping hot on a cold winter’s night or even savoured as an ice tea on a warm summer’s afternoon! The choice is yours!
Rooibos tea originates from the Cederberg Region of South Africa where it has been used as an herbal remedy by the Khoisans, the tribespeople native to the area for centuries. The practice of using this age-old brew had long since been embedded in the Khoisan’s culture until European settlers seized their land, eventually resulting in their dwindling numbers. In fact, its usage might have faded from existence altogether if it had not been for Carl Humberg, a botanist who revived a more widespread interest in the brew.
By the early 20th Century, Benjamin Ginsberg, a Russian immigrant with ties to tea manufacturing, further boosted the tea’s popularity when he began marketing the beverage as an herbal alternative to normal tea, named “Mountain tea”. Over the course of just 130 years, Rooibos Tea had been saved from the brink of extinction and by the Second World War, it was relied upon more than ever as tea imports became increasingly difficult due to the Imperialist Japanese occupation of the Asian continent. From here on out, the only way was up for Rooibos tea.
In 1968, a South African mother by the name of Annique Theron published a book on the health benefits of Rooibos tea. Its release saw hundreds of studies conducted over the course of many decades as science began to back her findings. Now in her 80’s, Dr. Theron still plays a vital role in the future of Rooibos tea. In fact, in a 2009 interview, she said: “It was a long but delightful journey. And I’m so happy that I could’ve been the instrument to have achieved that.” We here at the Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company are eternally grateful for everything Dr. Theron has done, and continues to do, with Rooibos tea!
About Rooibos Lemon Tea
Type of Tea: Loose leaf Rooibos.
Origin: The Cederberg Region, South Africa.
Brewing Instructions: Brew with freshly boiled water and infuse for 8 to 10 minutes for the perfect citrus taste.
How to Serve: Can’t get enough of the lemon? Consider adding an extra slice for a real kick! Alternatively, this blend can be enjoyed as it is.
Tasting Notes: A perfect balance of bitter and sweet can be tasted in this brew with its strong flavours of lemon infusing with the Rooibos to create a match made in heaven!
Colour in Cup: Coppery colour, dark in tone.
Known Health Benefits of Drinking Rooibos: The health benefits of Rooibos tea are well-documented. They include improved cardiovascular, immune and bone health, as well as the reduced risks of premature aging and even diabetes! Further to this, Rooibos is caffeine free! This makes it an excellent alternative to coffee is you are looking to cut down!