Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
21 March 2025 | 15:59 CAT

A groundbreaking study led by epidemiologist Dr Kerry Wilson from the National Institute for Occupational Health is investigating the potential benefits of rooibos in mitigating health risks faced by petrol attendants exposed to hazardous petrochemical fumes.

Petrol attendants, who spend long hours at fuel stations, are routinely exposed to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) chemicals—known to cause respiratory issues, blood disorders, and even cancer with prolonged exposure. Dr Wilson’s research aims to determine whether rooibos, a South African indigenous plant known for its antioxidant properties, can offer a natural defence against such risks.

“Studies have shown that long-term, low-level exposure to petrol fumes can lead to significant health complications,” Dr Wilson explained. “We were interested in exploring something that could help counteract these effects, particularly where traditional workplace safety measures may not be sufficient.”

The decision to focus on rooibos stems from its rich antioxidant content and affordability, making it a practical intervention for workers in high-risk environments. “We needed something that was accessible and widely accepted. International research has highlighted the benefits of tea and coffee as antioxidant sources, but rooibos stands out due to its caffeine-free nature and bioactive compounds,” she added.

As part of the study, researchers collected baseline samples from petrol attendants before providing them with rooibos tea bags for six months. “We are now in the final phase, where we are comparing samples to assess individual changes over time,” Dr Wilson noted.

Early findings indicate that exposure levels in fuel stations, while not excessively high, still pose a long-term health risk. The study is particularly relevant in addressing oxidative stress and DNA damage caused by BTEX chemicals, which conventional regulations mainly assess at high exposure levels.

Looking ahead, Dr Wilson sees potential for rooibos to be integrated into workplace health strategies. “It could be cost-effective for companies to provide rooibos in tea rooms, but individuals can also take proactive steps to protect their health,” she suggested.

The final results of the study are eagerly anticipated, with hopes that rooibos may provide a simple yet effective means of enhancing occupational health across industries.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Annisa Essack and Dr Kerry Wilson here.