http://www.nu-tea.com/nutritional_info.php
Antioxidants
As our environment has grown more toxic, we have greatly reduced
access to natural antioxidants (vitamin E, vitamin C, bioflavonoids,
carotene and a host of other less well-known chemicals). So it's not
only oxidative damage but also antioxidant deficiency that impacts a
wide range of human diseases--from cancer to viral infections to
circulatory disease. Both damage and deficiency are primary reasons
why our bodies run out of new cells to replace the older ones that
eventually fail, in spite of our built-in safeguards. Several
studies show that rooibos tea contains highly defensive natural
antioxidants. Equally exciting, rooibos tea has been validated to be
anti-aging, particularly for preventing age-related byproducts of
oxidation in the brain. The tea was able to inhibit the cancer-
causing effect of x-rays in test animals. Carcinogenic
transformation of cells was reduced with increased concentration of
rooibos extract. (Green tea, by the way, does not have this toxic-
transformation & suppressing capacity.)
Phenolic Carboxylic Acids
These compounds all possess antibacterial and antifungal properties,
explaining the beneficial effects the women experience when using a
weak Rooibos solution as a face wash. The carboxylic acids are also
weak antioxidants.
Flavonoids
Rooibos tea is rich in this powerful family of antioxidants. Its
major flavonoid is Aspalathin--found only in rooibos. Herbs with
flavonoids have traditionally been used to treat leg cramps and
various skin and circulatory disorders. Flavonoids may also have
anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, explaining the
benefit claimed for rooibos skin lotions and cosmetics.
Superoxidedismutase (SOD)
SOD is an enzyme that protects against oxidative damage, functioning
as a prime scavenger of free radicals. It can keep fats from
changing into harmful lipid peroxide, has anti-inflammatory actions
and is easily digested.
Oligosaccharides
Rooibos tea contains a family of unusual oligosaccharides. These are
compounds made up of small numbers of simple sugars. The most
dramatic news about Rooibos tea is that studies from Japan
demonstrate safe anti-HIV activity from the oligosaccharides
contained in it. Oligosaccharides are involved in the mechanism for
viral binding of T-cells, the immune soldiers that keep dangerous
attackers at bay.
Alpha-hydroxy acid
This type of compound is an important ingredient of beauty creams
and therapeutic preparations for dermatological diseases. It may
explain the success of beauty creams containing Rooibos in the
remarkable ability of the Rooibos supplement to preserve young and
beautiful complexions.
Calcium
Essential for the transportation of nerve impulses, clotting of the
blood. Vitamin C utilization, reducing cavities, formation of strong
bones.
Zinc
Aids in the digestion and metabolism of phosphorus and proteins.
Assist in burn and wound healing and in carbohydrate digestion.
Essential for healing skin.
Magnesium
Nature uses magnesium to calm the nervous system. It's a natural
sedative. Acts as a catalyst in helping carbohydrates become
properly assimilated instead of being stored as fat. Needed in the
absorption of calcium.
Manganese
Essential for normal reproduction function, building resistance to
diseases and activating enzymes. Important for carbohydrate and fat
production.
Sodium
Regulates the volume of body fluids and balanced with potassium
maintains pressure equilibrium between fluid outside cells and those
inside. Sodium is also necessary for nerve and muscle functioning.
Potassium
Essential for balancing the system, controlling body fluids,
normalizing the heartbeat and blood pressure nourishing the muscles,
assisting the kidneys disposal of body waste.
Iron
Vital component of hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying of red blood
cells. Essential for the production of energy and normal brain
function. Important for stress and disease resistance.
Copper
For the effective absorption and utilization of iron. Helps oxidize
vitamin C to form Elastin (compound of muscle fiber). Deficiency in
copper may result in general weakness, impaired respiration and skin
sores.
Fluoride
Often added to the municipal water supply to prevent tooth decay.
This fluoride is a natural element, found in the volcanic soil,
where this Rooibos Tea is grown.