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During one of my regular trips to Brooklyn, a girlfriend of mine made me Hibiscus Ginger Iced tea, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Not only does this tea (served hot or cold) have a lovely flavor, it is caffeine-free, and also comes with some very lovely nutritional benefits. So if you are still someone who gets down with the packaged iced tea mix to co0l you down, consider investing in some dried hibiscus flowers and giving this refreshing tea a try. Several variations can be made just by adding lime, ginger, or even mint. Try what suits your taste buds and make sure to sweeten with unrefined sugar: raw sugar, agave, stevia etc. I actually used cactus honey, which was delicious. Taking an early Raw Girl Vacay Weekend to work on a new project! Be back on Monday with more fuel for your raw fire. -XoXo Raw Girl
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
- Can lower blood pressure and control cholesterol levels. Many studies have confirmed this benefit: In a study conducted in 2004 which was published in the journal Phytomedicine, seventy people drank 16 oz of hibiscus tea before breakfast or took anti-hypertensive medication. In one month’s time, the group who was drinking the tea had a reduction of at least ten points in their diastolic blood pressure.
- Assists in weight loss. Hibiscus tea contains an enzyme inhibitor that blocks the production of amylase, which is an enzyme that breaks down complex carbs and sugars. If one drinks hibiscus tea after meals, this will reduce the absorption of dietary carbs and help shed some pounds!
- Boosts Your Immune System. Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and therefore regular ingestion can help to fight off colds and infections.
- Prevents bladder infection and constipation.
How to Prepare
- Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 4 whole flowers or 2 tablespoons of dried flower petals.
- Cover and steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain.
- Add sweetener (preferably not refined sugar). For variations try adding mint, ginger (add in while boiling), lemon juice, or an orange peel to add extra flavor.
Another way to prepare hibiscus tea:
- Soak dried hibiscus flowers in water for 2 days (no boiling required).
- Strain.
To maximize the benefits of hibiscus tea, store your flowers in a cool, dry location.
Very good information, but I doubt how it must taste like. But for those benefits, I would definately try.
It tastes AWESOME 🙂 Really do try it. Slightly fruity almost flavor, and when sweetened is almost like having a fruit punch but not that extreme. Let me know how it goes 😉 -XoXo Raw Girl