Researchers say South Africans sleep around six hours a night, which is not enough and which is considered a major public health concern as it costs the economy billions as a result of lost productivity and car accidents while also leading to health complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
A study by Stellenbosch University showed that Rooibos could alleviate stress and anxiety levels, and as a result, aid in a good night’s rest. This is because two critical compounds in Rooibos interfere with the production of the stress hormone, cortisol. These are aspalathin and nothofagin – both potent antioxidants. The lower the levels of cortisol in the body, the higher the likelihood of uninterrupted sleep. Rooibos also contains magnesium and calcium – both minerals which play a role in a good night’s sleep.
Bloemfontein Courant website:
Read more in this article – Rooibos could be the antidote to SA’s poor sleep hygiene – published on the website of Bloemfontein Courant.
