The revolution of tea is taking over in our world. Actually, nowadays, you can already prepare a tea with almost any ingredients you have. The health benefits of hibiscus tea and any other natural tea are widely becoming a common knowledge nowadays; same with its prices since it has become expensive. If you want to know more about the amazing hibiscus tea, feel free to read on to this article.
The health benefits of hibiscus tea include the ability to treat various inflammatory problems, disturbed immune and digestive system, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, it is also beneficial in treating liver conditions and reducing the risk of cancer. It also helps in speeding up the metabolism and help in the healthy and gradual weight loss.
What is Hibiscus Tea?
The scientific term for the hibiscus tea is Hibiscus sabdariffa. It is believed to have been originated in the regions of Africa. It is actually a shrub and is also popular with the name Roselle. Many people confuse themselves with this flower and the Hibiscus ascetosella (a decoration flower that has no medicinal use). However, the Roselle is oozing with health benefits, this is because of its fruits, flowers, and most especially its calyx.
The hibiscus tea is made from the dried calyces of the Hibiscus sabdariffa. Conversely, this particular tea has a sour taste, which for sure will make your mouth twitch. The beverage is consumable depending on the way you want it to if it’s cold or hot. Just like some other herbal teas, the hibiscus tea is also low in calories and has no caffeine content.
The hibiscus tea is being prepared by boiling flower of the hibiscus plant. It is actually a very popular beverage all over the world and they often use it in the medical field as an herbal tea. Moreover, the tea is in ruby red color and its taste is quite sour. This is the reason why it is called the sour tea.
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
Here are various health benefits of hibiscus tea:
Improves digestion. Many people tend to drink hibiscus tea in the hope of improving the function of the digestive system. Furthermore, because of its diuretic properties, it is also beneficial in treating constipation.
Anti-depressant. The flavonoids and some other vitamins and mineral in hibiscus tea are beneficial in relieving stress and depression. The consumption of the tea may help in calming down the nervous system, and reduce depression and anxiety.
Relieves menstrual pain. The health benefits of hibiscus tea include a relief from menstrual pain and cramps. Moreover, it also helps in the restoration of hormonal balance, which is beneficial in the reduction of menstruation symptoms like overeating, depression, and mood swings.
Rich antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Since the tea is rich in ascorbic acid or vitamin C, it is beneficial in boosting and stimulating the activity of the immune system. Thus, helping your system to prevent catching flu and cold.
Prevents cancer. The hibiscus tea has protocatechuic acid, which contains anti-tumor and antioxidant properties. Thus, consumption of the hibiscus tea is beneficial in treating and preventing cancer.
Protects the liver. Studies show that the antioxidant properties of the tea are beneficial in curing liver-related illnesses. The antioxidants help in protecting the body from many diseases since they neutralize the free radicals in the system.
Lowers the cholesterol levels. The tea is beneficial in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol in the body, hence, providing protection against heart diseases and protecting the blood vessels from getting further damage.
Helps manage blood pressure. Research suggests that the consumption of hibiscus tea helps in lowering the blood pressure in adults who are pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive. This is because of the anti-inflammatory properties of the hibiscus tea.
Side Effects of Hibiscus Tea
Even though there are a lot of health benefits of hibiscus tea and it is a health enhancer, just like any other tea, there are possible side effects that you must be aware of. Here are some of them:
- Research states that the hibiscus tea may have an effect on the cancerous cells in the brain and the skin. Avoiding it is a must, to not get any further complications.
- Allergy is one of the most concerns when it comes to consuming hibiscus tea. This is because people who are allergic to it may have itchy eyes, sinus, and even fever.
- Hallucination may also happen when you excessively consume the hibiscus tea. Furthermore, people may also experience intoxication. Hence, it is important to be cautious in consuming the tea.
- The tea isn’t recommendable for pregnant women. This is mainly because of the emmenagogic effect it may cause.
- Hypotension may happen to those who have low blood pressure. This may result in dizziness, faintness, and may even result in brain or heart damage.
