Hibiscus
Tea, also known as zobo drink, is a very popular beverage in many regions of
the world, and is often used for medicinal purposes.
The tea is made from the hibiscus
plant, which is ruby red in colour.
There are many species of
the hibiscus plant across the world including across Africa. The most common
variety used in zobo drink both in Nigeria and across the world, is called
roselle. Beyond Africa, hibiscus rosa-sinensis is also described as having a
number of medical uses in Indian Ayurveda.
Hibiscus tea is made by
steeping dry hibiscus / zobo leaves in boiling water, and can be enjoyed both
hot and cold. It has a sour taste, so it is known as sour tea, having a flavour
similar to cranberry juice.
In the Caribbean, a
hibiscus drink called sorrel is made by adding ginger, sugar and rum to the
hibiscus brew. Though, it is advised that anyone seeking to gain any health
benefits from a hibiscus tea does not add anything with negative dietary
effects such sugar or alcohol to the drink.
Zobo drink has an
enjoyable taste, and the health benefits may also be far reaching. From
managing high blood pressure, lowering cholesterol and protecting the liver, to
relieving menstrual cramps and acting as an antidepressant, hibiscus tea has an
impressive list of potential benefits.
Health benefits of hibiscus tea:
1.
Zobo leaf drink may relieve menstrual pain
Traditionally, the health
benefits of hibiscus tea include relief from cramps and menstrual pain. It is
thought to help in restoring hormonal balance as well, which can reduce the
symptoms of menstruation like mood swings, depression, and overeating.
2.
Zobo drink may manage high blood pressure
Consuming zobo drink may
lower the blood pressure in pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. A
study in the Journal of Advanced
Pharmaceutical Technology & Research found that it has
antihypertensive and cardioprotective properties, which may be beneficial for
people suffering from hypertension, and those at high risks of cardiovascular
diseases.
3.
HIbiscus tea may lower cholesterol
Research in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine shows that zobo
drink helps to lower the levels of (bad) LDL cholesterol from the body, thereby
helping to protect against heart diseases and protecting blood vessels from
damage. The hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of hibiscus tea may be
beneficial for those who suffer from blood sugar disorders like diabetes.
4.
Zobo drink may protect the liver
The BMC Complementary Medicines and
Therapies journal published a study that also suggests that the
antioxidant properties, in particular from flavonoids, of hibiscus tea may also
help in treating liver diseases. Antioxidants help protect your body from
diseases because they neutralize the free radicals present in body tissues and
cells. Hibiscus tea could increase your lifespan by maintaining good overall
health.
5.
It contains anti-cancer properties
According to research in
the Cancer Letters journal, hibiscus tea contains hibiscus protocatechuic
acid which has antitumor and antioxidant properties. Hibiscus may slow down the
growth of cancerous cells by inducing apoptosis, commonly known as programmed
cell death.
6.
Hibiscus tea is an anti-inflammatory & antibacterial agent
Zobo drink is rich in
ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, an essential nutrient required by your
body to boost and stimulate the activity of the immune system. It is also used
to treat discomfort caused by fever.
7.
Zobo leaf drink may be an antidepressant agent
Hibiscus tea contains many
vitamins and minerals, while it’s the presence of flavonoids which have been
found to have antidepressant properties, by a study supported by CNPq and CAPES in Brazil. Consumption of hibiscus tea
may help calm down the nervous system, and it may reduce anxiety and depression
by relaxing the mind and body.
8.
Zobo drink may promote weight loss
A study in the Molecules journal has shown
that hibiscus may reduce lipid accumulation, as well as acting to lower the
development of fat tissue in the body. Both of these effects suggest that
hibiscus tea may be a useful aid for weight loss, when combined with a health
diet and lifestyle.
Cautions
Remember to always consult
with your doctor about any medical concerns, conditions and supplements that
you may be taking. Always take the advice of a medical professional on how to
proceed with your treatment.