By Shawrna Sen
Want a delicious cup of tea with some amazing health benefits? If yes, this article might just be for you!
Hibiscus tea is a herbal drink made from dried parts of a hibiscus plant. It has a similar tart and sweet flavor like cranberry juice, may be consumed either hot or cold—and it’s loaded with health benefits. Additionally, it is naturally calorie and caffeine free, which makes it a great option for anyone.
First of all, hibiscus tea is loaded with antioxidants. Antioxidants are important compounds that help fight free radicals, and thereby combat damage to cells. A study conducted on rats found that hibiscus tea reduces the damaging effects of free radicals up to 92% by increasing antioxidant enzymes.
Secondly, hibiscus tea is also said to reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is connected to an increased risk of heart disease as it puts stress on the heart, and weakens it over time. Drinking hibiscus tea can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and eventually protect the heart from being overworked.
Moreover, hibiscus tea has been found to lower blood fat levels, further protecting your heart. A study consisting of sixty volunteers showed that regular consumption of Hibiscus tea increased HDL cholesterol (which is good), and decreased LDL cholesterol (which is the bad form of cholesterol).
This tea can also protect your liver from damage. The liver is an essential organ that produces protein, breaks down fats, and secretes bile. Overall, studies show that hibiscus has properties that reduce signs of liver damage.
It is believed that hibiscus tea can help prevent cancer because it is high in polyphenols that have anticancer properties. One study showed that hibiscus extract stopped cancer cell growth. Other studies have shown it effective in stopping the spread of prostate cancer cells and stomach cancer by 52%.
In addition to all its other benefits, hibiscus tea can help reduce weight, strengthen overall immunity, and fight the bacterial infections that cause pneumonia, bronchitis or urinary tract infections. Data indicates that it may even be just as effective as some patented antibacterial medications.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hibiscus-tea-benefits
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269538#summary