Neptune's Gift

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Neptune's Gift
Miracle of Rooibos (Roy-boss) Tea
By George Okagaki

　　It has been my daily ritual to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning and a cup of tea at one o'clock in the afternoon. Caffeine contained in coffee and tea seems to stimulate "pleasure" nerves in my brain, and I always feel rejuvenated afterwards. However, I have become concerned that I might be on the road to a serious "Caffeine addiction". I began searching for alternative beverages that contain no caffeine, and found Rooibos tea.

　One of the most miraculous facts is that the contents of Rooibos tea are almost identical to that of ancient, unpolluted ocean water. In 1904, a biologist named Rene Kanton provided evedence that human blood consisted of the elements that were strikingly similar to that of the ocean water. With that in mind, I set out to search for the secrets of Rooibos.

　The South African natives such as Hottentots and Bantu have long been benefiting from Rooibos as a drink of perpetual youth and longevity. Incidentally, "Rooibos" means Red (Rooi) Bush (Bos). The prominent characteristic of the tea is that it contains high amount of SOD (Super Oxide Dismutase). SOD has been known to protect against oxidative damage. Rooibos tea contains 50 times more SOD than green tea, and 30 times more that Oolong tea. Daily intake of Rooibos tea is believed to bring various health benefits while maintaining perpetual youth. Locals in South Africa have been convinced of "Miracle of Rooibos" for centuries.

　Thus far, many have tried to grow and harvest Rooibos tea throughout the world without success. The plants grow only in the surrounding area of Clan William's Town and an area enclosed by the Swartberg and Cederberg Mountains in South Africa. Elevation of these highlands is over 450 meters above the sea level, and a change in temperature between mornings and evenings fluctuates more than 30 degrees. Considering that these areas are believed to have been under the ocean millions of years ago, it is not surprising that the Rooibos plants, which spread their roots deeper than 8 meters in these mineral rich soil, contain natural goodness from the ancient, unpolluted ocean water. Rooibos tea is so rich in minerals that are essential to maintain our health; I believe that Rooibos is a precious gift from Neptune to modern manking.

　Rooibos tea has been introduced by media in America recently, and has been steadily attracting more attention. A few days ago, I decided to look into a specialized purveyor in West Hollywood. The place had a tranquil decor, furnished with natural wood and Bordeaux-color carpet that reminded me of Africa. I could not ask for a more perfect setting than this to enjoy a cup of rare, miracle tea from a faraway place. I took my very first sip from the prepared tasting sample. I was surprised with a smooth flavor and aroma, contrary to a harsh, intense flavor I had expected. Almost immediately, I felt that the SOD had begun to work in my circulatory and digestive system. I felt so well and completely cleansed inside. I am also convinced that the tea had awakened my taste buds, as I could taste and enjoy every essence of the flavor at dinner later that night.

　Another notable benefit of Rooibos tea is clearing skin tones. Alpha-hydroxyl acid in Rooibos promotes clear, smooth skin that is free of dark spots. It has been also proven that application of Rooibos tea liquid to the skin has soothing effect. Sounds like this is worth a try.

　I have been looking for an ultimate beverage that is both enjoyable and beneficial for health. I cannot tell whether the secrets of the Ancient Ocean have been manifesting its magic in myself yet. Nonetheless, I felt something mythical and healing as I drank the first cup. Furthermore, as I explored the secret of Rooibos, I became fascinated by the eternal connection between the ocean and our human cultures. Thanks to the cup of Rooibos tea, I have wandered into to a world I had not explored before.