Hibiscus Flower

Hibiscus Flower
February 28, 2018 Christina Mullin

Hibiscus sabdariffa

The red hibiscus flower is cultivated worldwide for both its aesthetic appeal and its medicinal uses, which is in the form of tea.

How to make Hibiscus Tea

1.    Set a pot of water on the stove to boil

2.    Put the dried hibiscus flowers into an empty teapot

3.    Pour the boiling water into the teapot

4.    Leave the tea to steep for five minutes

5.    Strain the tea as you pour it

6.    Sweeten the tea as desired

Hibiscus tea has a taste that is very similar to cranberry juice. It can definitely be described as tart, so you can add honey to increase the sweetness. Also, you can try adding spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger depending on your taste preferences.

You can drink hibiscus tea as either a hot tea or an iced tea. If you want to keep yourself warm in the winter, brew it and drink it straight away. It only takes few minutes to make. In case you do not want to drink it hot, perhaps in the summer, you have the option to drink hibiscus-iced tea.

Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

Manages blood pressure

Lowers cholesterol

Protects the liver

Contains anti-cancer properties

Contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents

Relieves menstrual pain

Improves digestion

Hibiscus Tea—Side effects

Although hibiscus tea is a health enhancer and a natural weight loss booster, there are some possible side effects you should be aware of. Individuals who drink herbal teas should let their doctors know, as some herbs have the potential to interact with medications.

According to other sources, hibiscus consumption is not safe for people who take chloroquine, a medication for malaria. Hibiscus may decrease how well the medicine works in the body.

People with diabetes or on high blood pressure medications should monitor their blood sugar and blood pressure levels when consuming hibiscus. This is because it may decrease blood sugar or blood pressure levels.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not drink hibiscus tea.

Some people might develop allergic reactions such as itchy red eyes, sinus, or hay fever when consuming hibiscus tea.

Not many people are aware that almost 15–30% of hibiscus tea is composed of organic acids. These acids are malic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid. These acids are commonly found in many fruits such as grapes and wine. They help in boosting immunity, promoting better skin, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, managing inflammation, and improving digestive issues. Hibiscus tea has diuretic and choleretic effects, thus controlling blood viscosity by reducing blood pressure and enhancing digestion.

Sources:

Livestrong.com

Medicalnewstoday.com