While Hibiscus tea may not fall under the traditional tea category, diverging from the Camellia Sinensis plant lineage like black tea or green tea, it stands out as a delightful infusion. Whether savored piping hot or chilled over ice for a revitalizing summer quench, this beverage offers a unique taste experience. Additionally, its caffeine-free nature makes it an appealing option for those seeking the health benefits of hibiscus flowers without the accompanying caffeine effects.
Recipe for Hibiscus Tea:
Ingredients: 2 cups of water
2-3 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers (or 2 hibiscus tea bags)
Optional: Sweetener (honey, sugar, or stevia), lemon, or other herbs for flavor
Instructions:- Heat the water in a pot until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Once boiled, remove the pot from heat. Add the dried hibiscus flowers or tea bags to the hot water. Cover the pot and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Steeping time may vary based on desired strength.
- After steeping, strain the tea to remove the hibiscus flowers or tea bags. Pour the tea into a cup or pitcher.
- Add sweeteners like honey, sugar, or stevia to taste. For added flavor, consider squeezing in some lemon juice or adding other herbs like mint or ginger.
- Pour the hibiscus tea into cups and serve it hot, or refrigerate it for a few hours to enjoy it chilled.
Tips: Adjust the quantity of hibiscus flowers or tea bags based on desired tea strength.
Experiment with various sweeteners or flavorings to suit your taste preferences.
Allow the tea to cool completely before refrigerating for iced tea.
Health Benefits of Drinking Hibiscus Tea
# Cholesterol
Sipping on hibiscus tea can work wonders when it comes to cutting down on your cholesterol levels. Yes, this unique little flower that is turned into hibiscus extract has been carefully studied to see if it had a positive impact on high blood pressure and cholesterol.
# Lower Blood PressureHeart health and blood pressure are truly where the sour and delicious hibiscus tea seems to shine. A study showed that just drinking three cups of tea in adults at risk of hypertension was enough to see a drop in their systolic blood pressure in comparison to those given a placebo. Full of anti-inflammatory properties, hibiscus tea is great for your heart health and can help to keep your blood pressure on the right side.
# Weight LossWhile body weight is a complex issue and dealing with unhealthy obesity requires a proper schedule of exercise and lifestyle changes, hibiscus tea is considered to be a contender in helping with body fat.
# Immune SystemSnuggle up with a cup of hibiscus tea and let all that vitamin C give your immune system a much-needed boost. Vitamin C is one of the major players in fending off colds and flu that come with seasonal change. This vibrant red tea can keep you in tip-top shape thanks to its abundance of vitamins and minerals, the Vit C can also help your body to fend off all kinds of infections. In short, all it takes is a cup to feel as strong as an ox.
# Liver HealthThis pomegranate-coloured beverage has been studied for helping to prevent liver damage as it can help increase the concentration of detoxifying enzymes. While these studies were conducted using hibiscus extract and more human studies are needed, it stands to reason that hibiscus tea can be a useful tool in the fight against future liver problems.
# VitaminsHibiscus tea also comes topped up with copper and potassium, which are essential sources of iron and keep our nerves and immune system functioning. Finally, it also has anthocyanins which are responsible for that rich ruby colouring but also help to prevent chronic disease and are ripe with antibacterial benefits too.