4. Allergies
Taking a tea break is a health-enhancing activity that is not only relaxing but also rich in antioxidants. Redbush tea, a caffeine-free variety, known as rooibos, has been touted for its many health benefits. Drinking rooibos tea also relieves allergy symptoms and is a natural, safe and healthy alternative to synthetic antihistamines found at the drug store.
Antihistamine properties called quercetin are from rooibos tea, and it curbs symptoms of allergies, such as congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing associated with hay fever and allergic rhinitis.
This South African brew also contains a bioactive flavonoid known as chrysoberyl, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Rooibos tea can help to relieve the feelings of wheezing and coughing that are caused by allergic rhinitis and asthma.
Quercetin blocks mast cells, which are responsible for releasing histamine, the main element that triggers an allergic response. Rooibos tea does works as an antihistamine, without the drowsy side effects. While not a replacement for allergy treatments, drinking a few cups of rooibos tea every day can limit your body’s immune response that triggers allergies.