Could Rooibos Tea Protect Petrol Attendants From Toxic Fumes?
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.
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.