Rooibos is part of the fynbos family and endemic to the Cederberg region of the Western Cape.
South African wonder herb, Rooibos, is sure to turn the anti-ageing revolution on its head following a new round of research into its anti-ageing potential beyond that of its well-known antioxidant properties.
Rooibos – already a proven agent in thwarting the effects of ageing and promoting general health – has further been put through its paces by two leading scientists from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in a bid to beat the rate at which age-related diseases develop, which makes this research study so significant.
Lead scientist, Prof. Maryna van de Venter said it was the first time a study such as this had been attempted.
“Our research focussed primarily on the preservation of healthy fat tissue as the redistribution of fat – a natural process which occurs with age – particularly to the abdominal region, has been linked to the onset of many age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes and cancer. Our aim was to slow down the rate at which these diseases develop as a way to improve the quality of an individual’s life.”
Co-researcher, Dr Trevor Koekemoer, emphasised that the mere fact that their work suggested that the anti-ageing effects of Rooibos could be ascribed to more than its well-known antioxidant effects, was an important finding.
“The discovery opens doors to ways in which Rooibos could prevent or at least delay the detrimental effects of ageing and holds profound implications for the industry. Our findings could spur novel therapeutic approaches for improving general health in the aged and potentially lead to a breakthrough in the field of regenerative medicines,” he said. – Source: www.sagoodnews.co.za