Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is a decaffeinated herbal beverage, it is an extremely healthy beverage that is made from the fresh or dried petals and leaves of the hibiscus flower. It’s also known as Karkade tea or Jamaica tea (Aua de Jamaica) in some parts of the world it is known as Roselle tea.  Hibiscus tea has a sour and sweet cranberry like taste, along with a beautiful, light crimson color. It contains minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and zinc, as well as contains B-vitamins, folic acid and niacin. This nutritious beverage is native to Southeast Asia and North Africa, where the beverage has been used for its medical properties.

Health Benefits

• Improves blood pressure levels, as hibiscus tea contains anthocyanins, which has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as contains phosphorus, both compounds, which reduces blood pressure.
• Aids indigestion, thanks to the fruity acids contained in the hibiscus tea which helps
  • Stimulate the evacuation of the bowels as hibiscus tea behaves as a laxative.
  • Regulates urination and bowel movement
  • Treats diarrhea and constipation
  • Benefits gastrointestinal system
  • Reduces the risk colorectal cancer
• Lowers cholesterol, thanks to the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties in hibiscus tea, beneficial for individuals that suffer from disorders like type 2 diabetes.
• Prevents liver damage, the antioxidants in hibiscus tea assists in treating the liver by detoxifying the body.
• Prevents cancer, thank to hibiscus tea ad its anticancer, antioxidant and anti-tumor properties, it helps fight cancerous cells.
• Treats depression and anxiety, hibiscus tea behaves as antidepressant as it contains flavonoid compounds which helps calm the nervous system in the body.
• Treats Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
• Promotes weight loss, as hibiscus tea is low in calories, for the best results drink without sugar or milk.

Side effects

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women or women trying to conceive should not drink hibiscus tea, as it encourages menstruation, causing consult a doctor if taking birth control before consumption.:
  • Miscarriages
  • Shakiness
  • Constipation
  • Stomach cramps
• Consult a doctor if you are taking any of the following medications, as it could cause major reactions :
  • Chloroquine
  • Anti-diabetic medications
  • Zocor, medication for liver.
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• May cause allergic reactions, stop drinking and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any following:
  • Itchy red eyes
  • Irritated sinus
  • Hay fever
  • Blood pressure issues, not recommended for individuals who already have low pressure or hypertension, as it may cause
    • Faintness and dizziness
    • Damage to heart and/or brain.
  • May cause some individuals to feel intoxicated and/or experience hallucinations, consume with caution and/or consult a doctor before consumption.
• Avoid drinking if you suffer from diabetes and/or are about to undergo surgery, as it lowers blood sugar levels , consult a doctor before consumption.

Although herbal teas are known to be natural, that doesn’t mean that they are safe for everyone.

If pregnant or about to go under surgery or have any allergies consult with your doctor if it’s safe.