Known for its many properties, hibiscus tea has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Indian medicine.
It contains no caffeine, and its sweet and tangy flavors make it the ideal substitute for juice or a sugary drink while still tasting great. It can be served as a delicious infusion or cold as iced tea.
What is hibiscus?
Nicknamed “Roselle” or “Guinea sorrel,” hibiscus is a herbaceous plant from West Africa that is often used in traditional medicine because it is a source of polyphenols with antioxidant and invigorating properties. A recent study also demonstrated the role of hibiscus and polyphenols in fatty acid metabolism in counteracting the effects of oxidative stress. Consuming 1.5 g of flower infusion per day, hibiscus also helps revitalize the body, restore energy, and prevent fatigue. Due to its diuretic properties, hibiscus promotes the renal elimination of water. As an infusion, it may help prevent the formation of kidney stones. Thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it is a useful drink for preventing urinary tract infections.
What are the benefits of hibiscus?
It lowers blood pressure
Hibiscus tea has been shown to act as a natural diuretic, increasing both urination and bowel movements. When water leaves the body, it takes sodium with it, which is one of the mechanisms by which blood pressure is reduced.
It supports the immune system
- It is involved in the production of white blood cells: hibiscus is extremely rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the production of white blood cells. White blood cells play a crucial role in the body, as they are responsible for fighting pathogens and infections.
- It slows the growth of cancer cells: it is rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that appear to promote apoptosis, the death of certain malignant cells.
- It has antifungal properties: it inhibits the formation of Candida albicans. Candida albicans is a type of yeast normally found in small amounts on the skin, or in the mouth, intestines, or vaginal flora of approximately 15 to 60% of the population. Candida albicans overgrowth can, however, become problematic in general and is associated with numerous digestive and skin conditions in particular.
It promotes weight loss
Furthermore, drinking hibiscus infusion at least once a day (several cups per day) may also help combat insulin resistance, a common marker of prediabetes and various other conditions.
It slows tissue aging
Hibiscus tea is packed with antioxidants (vitamin C, anthocyanins, and quercetin glucoside), making it extremely useful for fighting oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals overwhelm the body and it does not have enough antioxidants to combat them. Damage caused by free radicals can contribute to many health problems, ranging from aging skin and joints to more serious degenerative conditions.
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