A new study conducted by the Institute of Applied Microbial Health and Biotechnology at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has provided valuable insight into the potential cardiovascular benefits of Rooibos.
The study, led by Professor Jeanine Marnewick, director of the Institute and researcher Maria Hartnick, builds on previous research, which showed Rooibos’ Ability to Modulate Risk Factors Associated with Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).
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Getting to the heart of the matter
However, this latest study takes it an important step further using advanced diagnostic methods to assess cardiac function in real time.
The main objective of this new research was to evaluate the effect of Rooibos on cardiovascular function in people at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
This followed findings from earlier research that demonstrated Rooibos’ ability to moderate oxidative stress and improve lipid profilesincluding reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
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Effect of Rooibos on cardiac function
“While our previous studies focused on biochemical markers, we wanted to take a deeper look at how Rooibos affects actual heart function. This is where the use of transthoracic echocardiography, a diagnostic ultrasound test, came into play,” explains Professor Marnewick.
Echocardiography, commonly referred to as “sonar”, allowed the team to observe the heart in real time, providing a more detailed understanding of the potential health benefits of Rooibos.
This was the first time such technology was used to investigate the effects of Rooibos on heart health, with the aim of early detection of cardiovascular changes in people at risk.
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Promising study results
THE the results of the study were promisingparticularly in relation to several key cardiovascular parameters.
“We observed a significant reduction in left atrial dimensions, septal thickness, and left ventricular mass in participants consuming Rooibos, particularly green Rooibos,” says Hartnick.
“These reductions are indicative of improvements in cardiac structure and function, which may reflect better endothelial function (blood flow by relaxing and tightening blood vessels) and overall cardiovascular health.”
The study involved male and female participants with at least two modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Participants consumed the equivalent of six (6) cups of either fermented (red) or unfermented (green) Rooibos daily for 12 weeks.
These The results highlight the potential of Rooibos, particularly in its green form, to positively affect heart health.
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The importance of antioxidants in Rooibos
One of the unique aspects of this study was focus on consuming whole Rooibosrather than isolating individual compounds.
“We used a Rooibos water extract to simulate a ‘cup of tea’,” says Professor Marnewick. “This was important, because Rooibos is often consumed as a drink and we wanted the results to be as applicable to everyday life as possible.”
While previous studies have identified compounds such as aspalathin and nothofagin as potent antioxidants in Rooibos, this study took a holistic approach to the cardiovascular benefits of the tisane.
THE The antioxidants in Rooibos are thought to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stresswhich are major contributors to cardiovascular disease.
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New methods for new ideas
This study was designed differently from previous research. Rather than a six-week crossover study, this was a 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel design.
This design provided more robust data and allowed for the inclusion of echocardiographic measurements, which had never been done before in Rooibos research.
“Baseline and post-intervention echocardiograms were used to measure changes in cardiac function,” explains Hartnick.
“We followed strict guidelines from the American Society of Echocardiography to ensure accuracy and reliability. This methodology gave us a much clearer picture of how Rooibos can affect cardiovascular health.”
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Key findings and unexpected results
Studying is the most significant finding was reduction in left atrial size, septal thickness and left ventricular mass. These are critical markers for hypertensive heart disease, which is a major risk factor for heart failure and other cardiovascular complications.
“Seeing these parameters improve with Rooibos consumption is a breakthrough,” says Professor Marnewick. “This is the first time we’ve been able to show these results in humans.”
Although the clinical significance of these findings needs further investigation, the results are an exciting step forward.
The researchers note that while Rooibos is not a cure for cardiovascular disease, it holds promise as a preventative strategy that can be easily incorporated into everyday life, along with a healthy lifestyle.
Next steps in Rooibos research
Looking ahead, The researchers plan to continue investigating the long-term cardiovascular effects of Rooibos.
“We have laid the groundwork with this study, but there is still much to explore,” says Professor Marnewick.
“Future research will focus on understanding the clinical relevance of these findings and how Rooibos can be used as part of an integrated approach to heart health.”
In the meantime, Rooibos lovers have another reason to enjoy their favorite brew – it might just help keep their hearts healthy.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sports or health and fitness, Pedro is most likely out training for his next marathon or ultramarathon. She has worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms specialist. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
