Benefits of Hibiscus Drink

What is Hibiscus (Sorrel) Tea?

Hibiscus Tea is a herbal tea that is produced when the dried flowers of the Hibiscus plant are steeped in hot water. Hibiscus, also known as Sorrel, Roselle hibiscus, Sour Tea, Jamaican Sorrel or Trinidad Sorrel,  is very popular in West Africa and parts of the Caribbean. The flower can range from a dark red color to a light pink color. Hibiscus Tea has a tart flavor and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

According to WebMD, some evidence points to hibiscus as having anti-cancer and anti-bacterial qualities. This evidence mostly consists of lab studies, but numerous animal and human studies show that hibiscus can improve heart health. Researchers point to anthocyanins as the compounds most responsible for the health benefits of hibiscus. Anthocyanins are plant compounds that act as antioxidants and that give some plants their red, blue, and purple colors.

 

Hibiscus (Sorrel) Tea Nutritional Benefits

Healthline and WebMD lists the following benefits of drinking Hibiscus Tea:

  • Rich in antioxidants
  • May help to lower Blood Pressure
  • May help to lower Blood Fat Levels
  • Could improve Weight Loss

Hibiscus (Sorrel) Tea Nutritional Breakdown

According to the USDA, one cup of hibiscus in its natural form provides these nutritional values:
  • Calories: 28.
  • Protein: . 5 gram.
  • Fat: 0 grams.
  • Carbohydrates: 6 grams.
  • Fiber: 0 g.
  • Sugar: 0 g.

Depending on the part of the plant you are consuming and where it is grown, you may find the following nutrients in Hibiscus:

  • Calcium
  •  Phosphorous
  •  Iron
  •  Niacin
  •  Vitamin C
  •  Riboflavin

Uses of Hibiscus (Sorrel)

In West Africa, Hibiscus is combined with Ginger to make a delicious drink. In some parts of the Caribbean, Hibiscus is made as a cold drink during the holidays where various spices and cloves are added. Because of its tart flavor, Hibiscus has also been used to make sauces similar to cranberry sauce as well as jams and jellies.
 

Before starting any herbal regimen, you should always consult your physician.  If you do have a reaction after consuming Hibiscus Tea, stop immediately

Hibiscus (Sorrel) Drink Recipe

PREP TIME: 10 Minutes
COOK TIME: 1 Hour
SERVINGS: 8 Cups

EQUIPMENT

  • Teapot or stove pot for steeping

INGREDIENTS

  • 8 Cups of Hot Water
  • 3 oz Dried Hibiscus Flower (tea)
  • 1 Stick of Cinnamon
  • 6 Whole Cloves

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Add 8 cups of hot water to a pot or teapot
  2. Add dried Hibiscus tea, cinnamon and cloves (TrueTeaLovers – Hibiscus Tea)
  3. Let steep for 1 hr
  4. Add sugar to taste
  5. Best when served chilled

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