Hibiscus (Gumamela) Tea For Good Health

Apart from being fragrant and beautiful, hibiscus flowers can also be used in making a tea, which is known to be as “sour tea”.

Usually, the tea is dark red in color. It is made from the leaves, calyces, and flowers of hibiscus.

This herbal tea is rich in antioxidants (vitamins A and C), anthocyanins, and malic acid. Because of these, it can reduce inflammation and fight free-radical damage throughout your body. Other nutrients present in this tea are copper, iron, protein, B vitamins, and omega-3 essential fatty acids. It is also caffeine-free and naturally low-calorie.

Experts recommend drinking this herbal tea since it can offer a wide array of health benefits.

Steps In Making Hibiscus Tea

Add 2 dried hibiscus flowers to 2 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil, then let it simmer for 5 minutes. Strain it and add a little lemon juice and raw honey to taste. Drink this tea once or twice daily to achieve its benefits.

Hibiscus tea tastes slightly tart, yet very refreshing. You can drink it as a hot or iced tea. Spices like nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves can also be added to improve its taste.

Benefits Of Drinking Hibiscus Tea

Lowers Blood Pressure

The tea has a blood pressure-lowering capability due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Consumption of hibiscus tea increases urination which helps the kidneys in removing excess sodium from the body, thereby lowering your blood pressure.

Improves Cholesterol Levels

Hibiscus tea is effective at lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol) levels. Its antioxidant compounds and anti-atherosclerosis properties help prevent the oxidation of LDL
It also reduces the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis by preventing plaque buildup in the arteries.

Relieves Menstrual Cramps

Hibiscus tea can provide relief from menstrual cramps and bloating. It has a calming effect on your body and helps reduce the pain.

It also balances your hormone, thereby reducing symptoms like overeating, mood swings, and depression.

Drink a cup of hibiscus tea to ease your menstrual pains and bloating.

Aids Weight Loss

Hibiscus is a common ingredient in many weight loss products.

Several nutrients are found in hibiscus which can help lower the body’s absorption of carbohydrates and fats. It helps in losing weight by preventing the production of amylase, which help in the absorption of starches and carbohydrates.

Being diuretic in nature, this herb will help you shed water weight. It will also speed up your metabolism.

Boosts Immunity

A daily consumption of hibiscus tea can improve your immunity. Aside from fighting free-radical damage, its potent antioxidants also promote the production of white blood cells, which are important in fighting infections.

Plus, the herb’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help your body ward off various infections and prevent you from catching a cold or the flu.

Simply drink this herbal tea regularly during cold and flu season in order to support your immune system.

Improves Mood

Hibiscus tea has flavonoids which help improve your mood and alleviate depression. Just sip a warm cup of hibiscus tea whenever you are feeling down.

For you to reap the health benefits of this tea, you must drink it in moderation. One to two cups a day is recommended.

Cautionary Notes:

1. Do not drink hibiscus tea if you:

- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Develop an allergic reaction after drinking the tea.
- Have low blood pressure.
- Are taking chloroquine, a medication for malaria.

2. If you take high blood pressure medication, monitor your blood pressure levels when consuming hibiscus tea.

3. If you are diabetic, you must monitor your blood sugar level when drinking this herbal tea.