Hibiscus tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from the flowers of the Hibiscus sabdariffa or "Roselle" plant. The tea is made from the sepals or calyces (the petal-like structure at the base of a flower), and not out of the actual petals. Hibiscus tea is a popular beverage in many countries from Asia through Africa to the Caribbean, and different countries have their own unique ways of preparing the drink.
In some areas, including parts of China, hibiscus is blended with black tea. Although not as well-known in the U.S., hibiscus is a very common ingredient in herbal teas. Hibiscus imparts a tangy flavor and a deep purplish-red color to blends of which it is a part.
Although there are many different teas that provide numerous health benefits. But one of the healthiest teas is hibiscus tea. The tea is traditionally used as a mild medicine. In this article, you'll read about the most important health benefits of this tea.
One of the most powerful benefits of hibiscus is its ability to reduce blood pressure.
In one study, conducted by researchers from the Tufts University of Boston, drinking three cups of hibiscus tea each day lowered blood pressure of people with mild to moderate hypertension by an average of 7 points after six weeks of treatment.
In another study, conducted by researchers from the Bastyr Center for Natural Health in Seattle, Washington, drinking 16 ounces of the tea daily for four weeks lowered blood pressure even by 10 points.
If you have problems with high blood pressure, hibiscus tea can be as effective in treating hypertension as antihypertensive drugs.
If you're ill, hibiscus can help you recover more quickly. The tea is rich in vitamin C which may reduce the duration of illness. Moreover, vitamin C enhances iron absorption, which is especially helpful for vegetarians and vegans.
Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants which destroy cell-damaging free radicals. Some experts believe that organisms age because cells are damaged by free radicals. Diet rich in antioxidants may not only improve your health but also extend your lifespan.
Consuming the tea after the meal will help in breaking down starches and sugar. Consequently, it'll aid you in weight loss. Drinking the tea can also increase satiety which is especially important if you're on a diet. Moreover, hibiscus tea is a diuretic, so it elevates the rate of urination. The less fluid you'll retain, the less bloated you'll look.
Last but not least, a study performed by Shan Medical University's Institute of Biochemistry in Taiwan shows that the tea lowers LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.
As you can see, there are many health benefits of hibiscus tea. Hibiscus is used as a mild herbal medicine by thousands of people in many countries all over the world. You too can benefit from this great tea!
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