The gorgeous red hibiscus flower is not simply used for landscaping and framing your garden—the calyx of the flower (the solid part that holds and protects the flower petals underneath) can be dried and used to make a delicious herbal tea. Both sweet and tart in flavor, hibiscus flower tea is thought to have a similar taste to cranberries, and drinking it regularly comes with a range of health benefits.
 

It May Help in the Prevention of Cancerous Cell Development

There are two ways in which drinking hibiscus tea could help prevent cancerous cells from developing with its powerful antioxidants, and with the polyphenols that it contains.

Antioxidants work by fighting free radicals in our body. Free radicals are essentially unstable atoms that cause damage to our cells, which in turn can give rise to the growth of cancers. Studies have shown that hibiscus extract could increase antioxidants and reduce the effects of free radicals by as much as 92%, which is why hibiscus tea might be so beneficial to consume.

Another way that the drink could prevent the growth of cancerous cells is by using the flower’s high concentration of polyphenols. Polyphenols are compounds with strong cancer-fighting properties, and can be effective on a variety of cancers including mouth, prostrate, stomach and plasma-cell cancers.

Instead of going to the trouble of sourcing dried hibiscus flowers to steep the tea for yourself, access to readily-available tea sachets like the ones offered by Nature’s Rare make hibiscus tea an easy addition to your diet. Our Pure Hibiscus “Red” Brew is made from pure hibiscus flower extract and organic Ceylon cinnamon, and is NON-GMO, gluten-free, kosher, and vegan-certified. Hibiscus tea is believed to induce a feeling of calm and relaxation, and so the best time to drink your hibiscus brew is at night, right before bed. Simply add the tea sachet to fresh boiled water, and let the drink work its magic.
 

It May Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

One of the hibiscus tea benefits that regularly get mentioned is the drink’s ability to potentially lower blood pressure. High blood pressure (also called hypertension) is often known as a “silent killer”, because the symptoms of it so often go undetected. Left untreated, it can lead to a range of serious problems that include heart attacks, heart failures and strokes.

Studies have shown that regular consumption of hibiscus tea can significantly lower blood pressure, which in turn lowers your risk of heart disease. However, if you’re already taking medication for blood pressure, consult your doctor before consuming hibiscus tea as the drink may interfere with the drug.

Another way that hibiscus tea can help prevent heart disease is by controlling cholesterol. There are two types of cholesterol in your system: HDL (“good” cholesterol) and LDL (“bad” cholesterol). Studies show that drinking hibiscus tea can lead to an overall decrease in cholesterol, but more importantly, leads to an increase in HDL and a decrease in LDL. LDL can cause plaque to form within your arteries, which would eventually slow down and block the blood flow to your heart—which is why getting your cholesterol under control is so important for heart health.
 

It May Help with Weight Loss

In a society that is constantly plied with sugary confectionaries and processed food—whether through advertising imagery or simply being readily available in supermarkets—obesity has become a growing problem worldwide. The solution for weight management for most people is to switch to a diet rich in protein and vegetables, and to make sure you’re getting some regular exercise.

However, there are certain pleasant steps you can take that can help you on your weight loss journey. Studies show that hibiscus extract can contribute to a reduced body weight and body fat levels in those who are overweight, and it’s a delicious way to supplement your diet. Simply toss in a teabag with your morning cuppa, and you’re good to go!