Rooibos Extract Introduced for Improved Cardiovascular Health

The objective was on developing a processing technique that optimises the concentration of Rooibos flavanoids, thereby producing a versatile extract that may find functional applications in the Beverage and Pharmaceutical industries.

28 Aug 2009 --- Afriplex, known for supplying natural plant extracts to the Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industries, has recently developed a novel Rooibos product called ASPALATOXT. Recent research has again confirmed the positive role of Rooibos flavanoids in cardiovascular health. With this in mind, AFRIPLEX started with the development of ASPALATHOXT, an extract formulated to achieve a specific profile of Rooibos flavanoids and anti-oxidants. Demand for a Rooibos extract focusing on the Rooibos polyphenol content prompted the development of this product. Recent research results on Rooibos flavanoids as depicted in the Journal of Pharmacological Science, (Vol. 110, page 105 – 110, 2009.) illustrates their positive effect on cardiovascular health.

The use of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) tea as a beverage was first reported in 1772, and it was marketed and then domesticated on a small scale around 1900. Demand for the product increased significantly during World War II because of the shortage of Oriental tea. The tea has since gained recognition for its caffeine-free properties, low tannin and antioxidant properties. The plant occurs naturally in the western districts of the Cape Province, South Africa, and attempts to grow it elsewhere in the world proved unsuccessful.

ASPALATHOX is produced through a proprietary and patented extraction process. The objective was on developing a processing technique that optimises the concentration of Rooibos flavanoids, thereby producing a versatile extract that may find functional applications in the Beverage and Pharmaceutical industries. The process was developed to ensure optimal concentrations of naturally occurring flavanoid compounds typical of Rooibos e.g. aspalathin, orientin, chrysoeriol and nothofagin. Using specialized extraction techniques, the product is produced through a range of membrane fractionation steps as well as an ethanol/water driven chromatographic separation process. The process ensures that the product is in its natural food state. The final concentrate is in powder format and is produced with low temperature spray drying, thereby producing stable and standardised powder extract.

Afriplex has negotiated partnerships with Pharmaceutical Manufacturers who have GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) accreditation by the Medical Control Council of South Africa. This allows Afriplex to offer contract manufacturing opportunities to customers with the assurance that all the products go through stringent quality controls.