Introduction:
Hibiscus is a large, five-petaled flower native to subtropical regions worldwide, and it is also cultivated in some tropical areas. This exquisite flower typically blooms in either white or red, depending on the climatic conditions in which they are grown. The hibiscus buds, known as calyces, are consistently deep red in color. These calyces or buds are harvested and commercially utilized by manufacturers for drying, processing, and the mass production of hibiscus tea. The hibiscus plant itself is rich in antioxidant compounds, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and anthocyanins (which impart the characteristic dark color). The use of hibiscus flowers in traditional and alternative medicine dates back centuries to ancient times in Egyptian civilization. Primarily, they were employed to alleviate clinical symptoms of fever, inflammation, or other chronic diseases. Additionally, the hibiscus plant has been extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. Interestingly, a significant portion of hibiscus tea imports comes from China and Thailand to the rest of the world.
What Are the Steps in Hibiscus Tea Preparation?
The following basic steps are implemented to prepare a hibiscus tea:
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Firstly one should place a hibiscus tea bag or the tea infuser in the tea cup containing at least one or two teaspoons of loose hibiscus tea leaves.
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One should preheat or heat water to a temperature of almost the boiling point of water that is up to 200 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. In case one does not possess a temperature-controlled teapot, one can simply bring the hot water to a boil and then let it cool down for a minute or two. This can reduce the temperature lightly.
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One can at least incorporate around eight ounces of water over the hibiscus tea bag or the tea infuser and then steep the tea leaves for as long as one needs or desires to get the ideal flavor.
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Longer duration steeping of tea leaves can result in stronger flavors. It would be interesting to note that most tea drinkers across the globe usually prefer a lighter flavor of hibiscus tea. For this, usually, the recommended time is a two-minute steep that would be sufficient. A three to five-minute steep can result in a stronger and darker colored cup of hibiscus tea along with some bitterness infused.
Does the Hibiscus Tea Contain Caffeine?
This tea is mainly popular around several tropical and subtropical regions of the world, known for its unique tart-like flavors, and also deemed very healthy by traditional or alternative medicine practitioners because it does not contain caffeine at all. Though caffeine in moderation or in doses less than 0.0141096 ounces per day would be considered beneficial by some nutrition experts for health, for individuals who prefer avoiding caffeine or instead are experiencing caffeine withdrawal symptoms (by high-frequency caffeine drinkers), hibiscus tea can be a rejuvenating option to switch over to gradually. Also in patients suffering from gastrointestinal or renal issues, caffeine is contraindicated in such cases.
Hibiscus tea is only an herbal concoction comprising an array of antioxidants, anthocyanins, vitamin C, and beta carotene, meaning it can be crucial for preventing chronic diseases, sustaining immunity, and balancing cellular health and immunity. Also because the tea does not contain any caffeine content at all, it is deemed the most suitable alternative for caffeinated drinks because of its relaxing effect. It is used in traditional medicine making it a good choice for those individuals who prefer to consume a hot cup of beverage that is free from caffeine.
One can note that though many black or green teas commercially may be advertised as "caffeine-free" beverages, some brands would still contain around 0.00317 ounces of caffeine per single cup serving. In comparison, a single cup of black coffee comprises almost 0.00529 ounces of caffeine which is less than 0.00846 ounces of caffeine present in coffee (per cup serving). Tea drinkers should note that the amount of caffeine would be dependent on the brewing method for tea and coffee which would determine the strength and the amount of caffeine in the drink or beverage.
What Are the Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea?
Hibiscus tea is known by nutrition research to possibly reduce blood pressure levels, as per information testified by several scientific research studies. In a research study that comprised 65 participants, hypertensive adults (with high blood pressure ) who consumed at least three glasses (around 8 ounces ) of hibiscus tea every day for a time period of at least six weeks or one and a half month showed a decline in the overall blood pressure. Similarly in a research study of almost one hundred participants who had type 2 diabetes, the patients who consumed around 15 ounces of green tea or hibiscus tea for an approximate one month or interval of four weeks, showed positive effect on the insulin resistance along with an improvement in certain blood lipids. The same study further indicated drinking hibiscus tea for four weeks was associated with a lowered LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. Hence it can be considered both cardioprotective and anti-diabetic.
A research study that was conducted in around 54 to 55 male athlete participants (soccer players) demonstrated a marked reduction in oxidative stress levels post green tea or hibiscus tea consumption (that is a direct marker of inflammation in most athletes). This benefit is recorded in traditional and alternative medicine as well, but only preliminary research exists and more scientific evidence is needed to testify this benefit.
What Are the Possible Interactions of Hibiscus Tea With Drugs?
Very few research studies currently exist that focus on any possibly negative effects of hibiscus tea. According to current nutrition research, some reviews have found that extremely high doses or increased frequency of the hibiscus extract may possibly be capable of hepatotoxic properties or liver damage. However, even these results are from limited studies and lack scientific evidence in human models. Hibiscus extract would further interact with certain diuretic medications for instance Hydrochlorothiazide in animal models and Acetaminophen drug in humans. For individuals taking these medications, it is wiser to consult the registered dietician or nutritionist before including hibiscus tea in the diet.
Conclusion
Hibiscus tea serves as a potent source of antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being by helping combat oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, its caffeine-free nature makes it an excellent alternative to traditional caffeinated beverages, providing a refreshing and rejuvenating option for those seeking a health-conscious choice. When consumed in moderate amounts, hibiscus tea has shown promise in its anti-inflammatory properties, making it particularly beneficial for individuals managing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
