This paper reviews provenance, processing and properties of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis, Brum.f) and its numerous biologically active constituents, as well as the currently available knowledge concerning their physiological and medicinal effects and their possible extra- and intracellular mechanisms of action. Search for literature was performed in agreement with the preferred reporting items for systematic review criteria in Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science and SCOPUS databases between the years 2000 and 2021. The limited number of in vitro studies suggests an influence of rooibos on basic ovarian cell functions, as well as its potential applicability to control female reproduction and prevent the effect of environmental contaminants on ovarian functions. Nevertheless, further studies are required for better understanding of the character and mechanisms of action, as well as of rooibos' application in reproductive biology and medicine.
Keywords: Rooibos; apoptosis; disease; oxidative stress; proliferation; reproduction.
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