“In research, however, scientists often use highly concentrated extracts, making them substantially more potent. “It’s important to remember that everyday hibiscus tea is made with roughly 1 tablespoon of hibiscus per cup,” Devje says. The antioxidant effects of hibiscus are intriguing, but more study is needed before researchers can confirm hibiscus tea might lower the risk of chronic disease. “The calyces, those colorful outer parts of the flower, are particularly rich in anthocyanins, including delphinidin 3-sambubioside and cyanidin 3-sambubioside,” says Devje. Flavonoids have been studied for their anti-cancer, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as possible use to help lower the risk for high blood pressure and heart disease. Polyphenols have antioxidant properties that help protect against cell damage, a contributor to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Hibiscus also contains flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins, which are also polyphenols. Hibiscus tea is rich in polyphenols, including anthocyanin, which has anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, notes Routhenstein. Possible Reduced Risk for Chronic Diseases Studies using hibiscus extract in test tubes is considered preliminary research that can’t be extrapolated to humans, she adds. Some studies used hibiscus extract and not tea, for example, which is a much more concentrated form and may yield different results, Routhenstein says. However, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to substantiate the tea’s potential medicinal applications and people with medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, and bladder and liver conditions, should consult with a health care expert for treatment.īelow are some of the potential health benefits of hibiscus tea-although research is limited for conclusive evidence of the tea’s medicinal effects. Hibiscus is also used for medicinal purposes in India, Thailand, Africa, Mexico and Africa to improve liver, bladder and intestinal function, reduce fever, lower blood pressure and increase blood vessel flow. Hibiscus sabdariffa was used in ancient China to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), fever, inflammation and kidney and bladder stones. Expert-Backed Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea The tea can be consumed as is or with honey or another sweetener and lemon to enhance its flavor. To prepare hibiscus tea, pour boiling water over the flowers in a steeper or infuser or over a tea bag, allowing the tea to steep for five to seven minutes before drinking, says Shahzadi Devje, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator based in Canada. Additionally, hibiscus tea can be used as an ingredient in alcoholic cocktails, and the calyces are used in jams, sauces, ice cream, wine, fermented beverages and other foods. The tea, which is popular in South and Central America, parts of Africa and the Caribbean, is also consumed in the U.S., she adds. Hibiscus tea is made from dried calyces, a collection of edible sepals (the outermost part of the flower that covers the petals before they bloom), says Routhenstein. Hibiscus tea is caffeine free with a dark red color and a tart, fruity flavor profile, says registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein, a certified diabetes educator, owner of Entirely Nourished, a virtual nutrition consulting practice, and a Forbes Health advisory board member. Hibiscus sabdariffa, also known as Florida cranberry, Roselle, Jamaica sorrel and red sorrel, is a flowering shrub native to Central and West Africa and is currently grown around the world. Health Benefits Of Hibiscus Tea, According To Experts While we work hard to provide accurate and up-to-date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Health does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Health. Second, we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. This compensation comes from two main sources. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Health site. The Forbes Health editorial team is independent and objective.
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