Dr Kerry Wilson, Asanda Jekwa and Vusi Ntlebi – the dedicated fieldwork team behind the Rooibos occupational health study.
Image: Supplied
A revolutionary study is underway, examining the potential of Rooibos tea to shield petrol attendants from the detrimental effects of petrochemical exposure in South Africa's bustling fuel industry. Spearheaded by scientists at the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), this groundbreaking research arises from a recognized need to address the significant occupational hazards faced by petrol station workers, particularly in high-exposure urban settings like Johannesburg.
Dr Kerry Wilson, an epidemiologist at the NIOH, underscores the pressing nature of the issue. Petrol attendants often endure lengthy hours at fuel stations, frequently inhaling hazardous petrochemical fumes, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene — commonly referred to as BTEX. “These compounds are strongly linked to severe respiratory issues, DNA damage, and a range of long-term health complications,” she explained. With complete knowledge of these dangers, the NIOH team was inspired to investigate whether Rooibos, renowned as a cost-effective health beverage, could offer a protective remedy for workers.
The study seeks to evaluate petrol attendants’ exposure to BTEX chemicals while simultaneously exploring Rooibos’ potential as an oral supplement to improve their health outcomes. Encouraged by international studies highlighting the benefits of antioxidants present in tea, especially their role in reducing oxidative stress caused by BTEX exposure, researchers have turned their attention to Rooibos. Caffeine-free and rich in beneficial compounds, Rooibos has emerged as a logical focus for comprehensive research.
Dr Kerry Wilson, Asanda Jekwa and Vusi Ntlebi – the dedicated fieldwork team behind the Rooibos occupational health study.
Image: Supplied
Long-term exposure to petrochemical pollutants has been linked to various health issues, including respiratory diseases, skin irritation, blood disorders, and serious organ damage. Notably, immediate symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and airway irritation can occur, while prolonged exposure can lead to even more serious conditions like blood poisoning and DNA impairment. Additionally, Dr Wilson cites worrying reports indicating alterations in liver and kidney function due to excessive exposure to harmful emissions.
“Despite existing occupational health and safety regulations in South Africa, enforcement of these measures remains inconsistent,” Dr Wilson noted. Unlike in many developed nations, where self-service refuelling minimises direct worker contact, South African petrol attendants face daily exposure to hazardous vapours. The situation is further complicated as petrol stations are operated by individual owners, each controlling their compliance with safety measures.
As part of this study, researchers are evaluating biomarkers linked to oxidative stress and DNA damage. Employing techniques like comet assays, the researchers aim to determine whether the consumption of Rooibos improves the body's antioxidant status and assists in mitigating some of the damage caused by petrochemical exposure. Participants were recruited through a quota sampling method at various petrol stations; baseline health assessments were conducted in late 2023, and an intervention phase is set to take place in 2024, with final evaluations expected in March this year.
Throughout this investigation, half of the enrolled participants will consume three cups of Rooibos (250 ml each) daily over six months, while the control group will receive illustrated health guidelines designed to reduce exposure without Rooibos consumption.
The nutritional benefits of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) include a host of bioactive compounds believed to have occupational health advantages:
Dr Wilson’s team believes that these compounds collectively work to alleviate oxidative stress, combat inflammation, support detoxification, and improve respiratory and cardiovascular health—critical factors for those regularly exposed to petrochemical pollutants. The possible benefits extend further as Aspalathin, for instance, can lower cortisol levels, helping workers manage occupational stress more effectively.
Despite the promising initial findings, Dr Wilson remains prudent. She acknowledges the need for further, more extensive trials to verify long-term benefits and fine-tune Rooibos' optimal dosage for maximum effect. Key areas identified for future investigation include long-term clinical trials in high-risk settings, comparative studies against other antioxidants like Vitamin C and green tea, as well as understanding Rooibos' genetic and epigenetic effects on workers. Additionally, feasibility studies on workplace adherence and cost-effective implementation could pave the way for Rooibos to become a staple in occupational health strategies.
“While Rooibos cannot replace necessary exposure control measures, it presents a promising opportunity for enhancing worker health,” Dr Wilson concluded. “Although we await our final findings, the compelling potential of Rooibos warrants further exploration.” The comprehensive results of this study are due to be published later this year, potentially redefining health protocols for an industry long grappling with precarious working conditions.