With matric finals underway, thousands of Grade 12 learners are buckling down for one of the most intense academic periods of their lives.

For many, this time can be overwhelming, as the pressure to perform well in these exams is high. Matric results often determine university entrance eligibility and future career paths. Adding to this, many university students are also busy with their final exams, making October and November a stressful time for both high school and tertiary learners.

In the midst of this academic marathon, it's common for students to turn to caffeine-laden beverages, such as coffee or energy drinks, to fuel long study sessions and late nights. However, experts suggest that while these stimulants may offer a quick energy boost, they can also come with significant downsides, such as crashes, jitters and disrupted sleep patterns. An alternative, that’s far gentler on the body and mind, is Rooibos – a natural beverage that provides sustained energy, focus and health benefits without the potential pitfalls of excessive caffeine or sugar intake.

How stress affects the body and mind

Exams, particularly final exams like matric and university finals, come with considerable stress. The pressure to meet expectations from teachers, parents and even oneself can feel overwhelming. Stress not only affects mental health, but also takes a toll on physical well-being, leading to issues like anxiety, fatigue, headaches and sleep disturbances.

Additionally, the intense focus required during study periods and the cognitive load of absorbing large amounts of information can leave students feeling mentally drained. This is where many turn to coffee or energy drinks, thinking they need these to stay alert and energised.

Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council (SARC) says unlike coffee or energy drinks that are loaded with caffeine and often sugar, Rooibos offers a steady, natural energy boost without overstimulating the nervous system.

“Rooibos is a caffeine-free herbal tisane made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, native to the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. Its gentle, nourishing properties make it an ideal companion for students enduring the demanding period of exam preparation,” she says.

Here’s why Rooibos stands out:

1. A stable energy boost: Caffeine in coffee and energy drinks can lead to spikes in energy followed by crashes, leaving students feeling fatigued after a few hours of hyper-alertness. Rooibos, on the other hand, doesn’t contain caffeine, but helps to promote alertness through its antioxidant-rich content, without leading to the jittery side effects or energy slumps typically associated with caffeinated drinks. This makes it a much healthier option for students pulling late study sessions, as it won't interfere with sleep or cause restlessness.
2. Avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar: Consuming large amounts of caffeine can lead to anxiety, increased heart rate and difficulty concentrating – all of which are counterproductive when trying to study for exams. Similarly, sugary energy drinks may provide a quick burst of energy, but are often followed by a rapid drop in blood sugar, leaving students feeling sluggish. By choosing Rooibos, students can avoid these potential health risks while still staying refreshed and alert during study sessions.
3. Supporting overall brain health: Rooibos contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may further support brain health. Chronic inflammation can impair learning and memory, but the natural anti-inflammatory effects of Rooibos can help keep the brain in top shape. By reducing inflammation, Rooibos could indirectly support better cognitive performance during critical periods of learning and exam writing. The tisane has also shown to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which can be especially helpful for students under pressure. Excess cortisol is linked to anxiety and difficulty concentrating, so a cup of Rooibos could help calm nerves and enhance focus when prepping for exams.
4. Hydration and digestive comfort: Staying hydrated is essential for concentration and overall health, but many caffeinated drinks act as diuretics, leading to dehydration. Rooibos helps students stay hydrated without any negative effects. It is also known for its soothing properties on the digestive system, which is beneficial for students who may experience stress-related digestive issues.
5. Antioxidants in Rooibos support cognitive function: Rooibos is packed with antioxidants, such as aspalathin and quercetin, which play a key role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation. During periods of intense study, the brain is working overtime and oxidative stress can build up, potentially impairing cognitive function. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, the harmful molecules that contribute to oxidative stress and help protect the brain cells.

“Oxidative stress has been linked to reduced cognitive function and memory issues, both of which are crucial during exam time. Rooibos’ ability to reduce oxidative damage could therefore help maintain mental clarity, improve focus and support memory retention. These benefits make Rooibos a smart choice for students looking to keep their minds sharp and their bodies balanced during exams,” remarks du Toit.

Source: Annique