Rooibos is a South African herbal drink made from Aspalathus linearis. It is naturally caffeine-free and does not come from Camellia sinensis, the plant used for green and black tea.
What does rooibos taste like?
Plain rooibos often has woody, honey-like and lightly nutty notes. It can pair with vanilla, mint, citrus, spices and flowers. A blend's taste depends on its full ingredient list.
How to brew rooibos
- Bring fresh cold water to 100°C.
- Add about one teaspoon of loose rooibos per 180 mL of water.
- Steep for 3–6 minutes, then strain.
- Taste and adjust the amount of tea for the next cup.
This is a starting point. Follow the package if the instructions for your blend differ.
What is in Moon Calm?
Moodvera Moon Calm contains rooibos, sweet fennel, peppermint, chamomile blossoms, lemongrass, lemon balm, valerian root, cardamom seed pollen, sage and lavender blossoms. It is a naturally caffeine-free rooibos and herbal blend.
See Moon Calm ingredients and brewing instructions →
Can you drink Moon Calm during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Do not assume that caffeine-free means suitable for everyone. Moon Calm contains chamomile and several other herbs. Canadian public-health guidance advises avoiding some herbal teas, including chamomile, during pregnancy. If pregnant or breastfeeding, taking medication, managing allergies or a medical condition, ask a qualified healthcare professional before using a multi-herb blend.
Is rooibos the same as decaffeinated black tea?
No. Decaffeinated tea begins with tea leaves that contain caffeine and undergoes a caffeine-removal process. Rooibos comes from a different, naturally caffeine-free plant.
Can you add milk to rooibos?
Yes. Taste it first: milk may suit a plain or spiced rooibos more than a delicate floral or mint blend.
Can rooibos be served cold?
Yes. Brew the blend fully with hot water according to the package, then cool it promptly and keep it refrigerated. Rooibos is a beverage, not a treatment for sleep, anxiety or other health conditions.
Sources and product information
- Tea and Herbal Association of Canada: What Are Herbals?
- Tea and Herbal Association of Canada: How to Brew
- Public Health Agency of Canada: Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Always follow the ingredients and instructions on the physical Moodvera package.