Fermented rooibos tea appears to have a greater impact on bone health compared to unfermented rooibos tea, based on recent research findings. Here are the key points regarding the differences between the two types of rooibos tea and their effects on bone health:
1. Inhibition of Osteoclast Activity
- Fermented Rooibos: Studies indicate that fermented rooibos tea extracts have a more potent inhibitory effect on osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption. This is significant because overactive osteoclasts can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, where bone density decreases.
- Unfermented Rooibos: While unfermented rooibos also inhibits osteoclast formation, its effectiveness is lower compared to its fermented counterpart. Research shows that fermented rooibos extract caused a greater reduction in osteoclast resorption and associated gene expression than unfermented rooibos .
2. Polyphenol Content
- Both fermented and unfermented rooibos contain similar polyphenol profiles; however, the fermentation process may enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of these compounds. Polyphenols are known for their antioxidant properties and their role in bone health by promoting osteoblast activity (the cells that build bone) while inhibiting osteoclast activity .
3. Antioxidant Activity
- Fermented rooibos tea has been found to exhibit lower radical scavenging activity compared to unfermented rooibos. However, it still retains significant antioxidant properties that contribute to overall health, including bone health. The antioxidants in fermented rooibos may help reduce oxidative stress, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy bones .
4. Clinical Evidence
- Some clinical studies have shown that individuals consuming fermented rooibos tea experienced positive changes in markers associated with bone health, such as increased mineralization and improved overall bone density. These effects are attributed to the enhanced properties of fermented rooibos compared to unfermented varieties .
Conclusion
In summary, fermented rooibos tea appears to have a more significant impact on bone health than unfermented rooibos due to its stronger inhibitory effects on osteoclast activity, potential enhancements in polyphenol bioavailability, and overall antioxidant capacity. Incorporating fermented rooibos into a balanced diet may provide additional benefits for those looking to support their bone health.
Sources
[1] Rooibos tea extracts inhibit osteoclast formation and activity through the attenuation of NF-κB activity in RAW264.7 murine macrophages – PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29790498/
[2] Comparison of black, green and rooibos tea on osteoblast activity – PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26885714/
[3] 8 Amazing Rooibos Tea Benefits You Didn’t Know About https://senchateabar.com/blogs/blog/rooibos-tea-benefits
[4] Red Rooibos Tea Stimulates Osteoblast Mineralization in a Dose … https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5710/5/4/69
[5] [PDF] Rooibos Tea and Health: A Systematic Review of the Evidence from … https://www.sciforschenonline.org/journals/nutrition-food/article-data/NFTOA166/NFTOA166.pdf
[6] The health benefits of rooibos tea in humans (aspalathus linearis) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10774856/
[7] 6 Rooibos Tea Benefits: Antioxidants and More https://artfultea.com/blogs/wellness/rooibos-tea-benefits
[8] Top 5 health benefits of rooibos tea https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/nutrition/health-benefits-of-rooibos-tea
