What is Hibiscus Tea?
There are quite a number of drinks that can be made from the Hibiscus flowers and buds such as Lo-Shan, Sour tea, Red sorrel, and others. The most famous drink amongst them is Hibiscus tea and it actually falls under the category of Herbal teas or tisanes. It is made from the dried Hibiscus flowers and when brewed, this tea gives a very pretty red crimson colour. The taste is very fruity which is very similar to the taste of cranberries. It is mostly found in the region between Africa and India.
People mostly prefer Hibiscus tea because it is naturally sweet due to the nectar of Hibiscus. Therefore, there is no need for adding any other sweetener which as a matter of fact, (the sweetener) also increases the calorie percentage of the tea. Hibiscus tea is popular because of its negligible caffeine content and therefore, people who are sensitive or allergic to caffeine usually go for Hibiscus tea.
Health benefits of Hibiscus tea
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Hibiscus tea for skin
Hibiscus tea is one of the most underrated ingredients for skincare. This tea is infused with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also has vitamin C which is also known as ascorbic acid and Vitamin C plays an important role in accelerating collagen production in the body which ultimately improves the quality of the skin. Along with accelerating the growth of collagen, Hibiscus tea also reduces the degradation of collagen.
The antioxidant - myricetin present in Hibiscus tea plays an active role in suppressing the enzymes which destroy collagen. Besides controlling collagen, Myricetin also reduces the breakdown of Elastin which plays an important role in the tightening of the skin and reducing wrinkles. Inflammation is regarded as one of the most common problems these days.
Therefore, anthocyanin present in Hibiscus Tea Sample acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that protects the skin from inflammation. Given that Hibiscus tea also fulfills the need for hydration, it enriches the skin with nutrients as well as antioxidants. Hibiscus tea is infused with malic and citric acid which helps in lightening, brightening, and exfoliating skin without any such damage.
It promotes cell renewal which ultimately heals up any cut or wound faster.
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Hibiscus tea for hair
Hibiscus tea has many benefits, one among them is its hair care benefits. The amino acid present in Hibiscus tea gives rise to a complex protein, Kerstin which strengthens hair. Hibiscus tea is infused with Minoxidil and Finasteride which promotes Hair regrowth thereby reducing any type of hair loss or balding.
The mucilage present in the tea also acts as a natural conditioner which adds shine and softness to hair. Hibiscus tea is natural therefore it has minimum side effects and can be used for all hair types. The problem of dandruff and dry scalp can also be solved by the consumption of Hibiscus tea.
Hibiscus tea is known to maintain the pH balance of the scalp which reduces both excessive dryness and excessive oil secretion. This miraculous tea also acts as a natural colour for hair. It increases the production of Melanin which naturally makes the hair black and prevents greying.
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Hibiscus tea for menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms
Menstrual cramps occur during menstruation when there is a release of prostaglandin which causes cramps. Cramps occur because these prostaglandins essentially cause a contraction in the uterus which obstructs blood supply. Hibiscus tea is known to have analgesic properties that relax the muscles of the bladder and uterus thereby reducing cramps. Women often go for medicines to get rid of cramps which may have harmful side effects but in the case of Hibiscus tea, it is different.
Hibiscus tea is completely natural and has no such side effects. This tea is also proven beneficial in treating the issue of menopause in women. Studies prove that low estrogen present in the body causes menopause. Therefore, in this case, Hibiscus tea shows estrogenic effects by promoting phytoestrogens which prevent menopause. Therefore, Hibiscus tea is a very effective drink for women suffering from Menstrual cramps and Menopause.
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Hibiscus tea for high blood pressure
There are numerous risks associated with high blood pressure such as heart diseases, metabolic syndrome, dementia, and others. Hibiscus tea stands as a homeopathic solution for the problem of high blood pressure. Hibiscus tea health benefits also include lowering high blood pressure.
Studies prove that Hibiscus tea reduces both systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure. In a review of 2015, it was observed that the consumption of Hibiscus tea reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 7.58mm Hg and 3.53mm Hg respectively. Therefore, the natural properties of Hibiscus tea play a vital role in curbing High blood pressure and the problems related to it.
How to brew Hibiscus tea?
Hibiscus tea is a very versatile drink. It can be served both hot as well as cold. The brewing techniques of both hot and cold Hibiscus tea is different. Here we present to you the best ever Hibiscus tea recipes:
Steps to brew hot Hibiscus tea:
- Boil 8 ounces of water to an optimum temperature of 208°F. Do not use previously boiled or filtered water because it may change the existing flavours.
- Add 1.5 teaspoons of loose leaf Hibiscus tea. Avoid adding more than the specified quantity because it may make them more concentrated and perhaps too strong.
- Let the tea steep in for 5 minutes but for a deeper flavour and colour you can go up to 8 minutes.
- Use a strainer or an infuser to remove the Hibiscus. In case of unavailability of a strainer or an infuser, use a double cup method, filter method, and others.
How to brew cold hibiscus tea:
- Mix Hibiscus tea and water in any container. It is suggested to use regular water because boiled or filtered water can bring change in flavours.
- To steep the tea, keep the mixed water and hibiscus tea in the refrigerator for a minimum of 12 hours.
- Use a strainer or an infuser to remove the leftover Hibiscus tea leaves. Here you can, of course, add some of your favorite add-ins like lemon, mint leaves, or even honey.
- Serve cold with or without ice.
Summing Up
Hibiscus tea is very beneficial in treating problems related to skin, hair, liver, heart, and others. It is completely natural and has no otherwise side effects. A tea with tons of beneficial properties but also a subtle, delicious taste, this tea is a must-try. For the very same reasons, this tea has grown more and more popular over the years and has certainly found a permanent spot in our pantry. Do give this one a try!