Health benefits of Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus: rosa-sinensis; sabdarifffa

Hibiscus tea is a deliciously refreshing drink enjoyed traditionally across Asia, India and the Middle East. Loved for its vibrant colour and tangy flavour it’s also packed with incredible health benefits.

Health benefits

Reduces high blood pressure

Regular consumption of hibiscus tea has been linked to a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure due to its angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition, vasodilation and diuretic effects.

Aids digestion

It has a mild diuretic action, helping the body flush out excess sodium, water, and toxins. Drinking hibiscus tea after meals can also help alleviate indigestion and bloating. In addition, it has been found to help reduce fat absorption, making it useful for maintaining a healthy weight or losing a few pounds.

Relieves Asthma

With anti-inflammatory properties it can help provide relief during a bronchial asthma attack.

Eases Menstrual Discomfort

It’s antispasmodic and relaxant actions make it effective for treating dysmenorrhea and menoragghia.

Relieves Urinary conditions

Its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antimicrobial properties make it useful for treating cystitis.

Regulates blood sugar and cholesterol

Studies have found it useful in the management of high cholesterol and high blood sugar.

Anti-inflammatory

It’s anti-inflammatory properties, make it beneficial for those with any inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma and eczema.

Immune-boosting

With a high vitamin C content it help you maintain good health or boost recovery when needed.

High in Antioxidants

This means it is beneficial for skin and heart health and slowing the aging process.

Contraindications

Low Blood Pressure

If you already have low blood pressure, avoid drinking it regularly.

Pregnancy / Lactation

It can have mild uterine-stimulating effects so limit consumption or avoid.

Medications

It may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect blood pressure, blood sugar, or diuretics.

Always check with your doctor before making hibiscus tea a regular part of your diet.

Ways to drink Hibiscus tea

Iced Hibiscus tea (Karkadeh)

Steep dried hibiscus tea in hot water, then chill in the fridge. Serve over ice, sweeten to taste, and garnish with a slice of lemon or a few fresh mint leaves.

Hot Hibiscus tea with spices

Make a hot tea and add cinnamon, cloves and a dash of ginger.

Hibiscus lemonade

To a cooled hibiscus tea, mix in fresh lemon juice and a sweetener of your choice (sugar, honey, or agave syrup).

Hibiscus cocktails

Hibiscus tea can be used as a base for cocktails. Mix it with rum, gin or vodka, a splash of lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup for a refreshing drink.

Over to you

How will you drink your Hibiscus Tea?

We’d love to share your favourite way or recipe.