Major Benefits and side Effects of Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is made from the Hibiscus, Hibiscus sabdariffa, a tropical plant. In this tea there is no caffeine so has no side effects. It is the sepals of the flower that are used to make the herbal tea.

Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

1. It acts as a natural antioxidant. Antioxidants fight with the free radicals in the body. These also boost cell growth, immune system and decreases the risk of cancer & cataracts.
2. It reduces premature aging.
3. Hibiscus tea also controls the blood pressure, liver disorders and high cholesterol. Hibiscus tea thus reduces the chances of heart diseases. It lowers the blood pressure so people having low blood pressure should not consume it.
4. Hibiscus tea is also act as antispasmodic. Thus it reduces the muscle cramps, stomach cramps and even the menstrual cramps.
5. It is also very effective in losing weight. The enzyme called amylase breaks down the starch and sugar in the body, thus helping you to reduce weight. Therefore you can take a sip of hibiscus tea after meal as this will lower the absorption of carbohydrates. This further will help you in reducing weight.
6. Hibiscus tea strengthens the immune system as it contains great amount of vitamin C. Vitamin C is beneficial for immune system. So your body will fight against fever and flu more strongly with firm immune system.

Side Effects of Hibiscus Tea

1. People with low blood pressure should not consume it as it lowers the blood pressure.
2. In some cases it also produces hallucinogenic effect or you may feel as if been intoxicated. So if you are consuming it for the first time then do not go for it before driving as you may feel very sleepy.
3. Hibiscus tea affects estrogen level. Also person who has gone for the hormone replacement therapy and using birth control pills should avoid it.
4. Pregnant and breast-feeding mothers should not take it.
5. People taking anti-cancer drugs should not take it.

How to Make Hibiscus Tea?

1. Boil 2-3 cups of water in a saucepan and turn off the heat.
2. Take 4 fresh hibiscus flowers and put it into boiled water. If you have dried petals then add two tablespoon of these in boiled water.
3. Put 1 or 2 cinnamon sticks into water.
4. Cover it and keep it for 15 to 20 mins. Do not keep it beyond 20 mins as this will lead to bitterness.
5. In case you want strong tea then add more flower to the water.
6. Strain the tea.
7. Add lemon and honey for flavor.