While in Phoenix, we entered into a small, but very pricey tea store. The herbal teas were amazing! However, they were also running $7 to $12 per 2 ounces! Gulp! I understand that a lot of work goes into making these tea blends, but my goodness, that is highway robbery! I have the most wonderful dehydrator at home and I think that I will just start making my own!
I purchased an Excalibur Dehydrator several years ago. It is the 9-tray with a 26-hour timer. I also purchased the tray liners for creating my own fruit leathers, but that is another story. OK, what do I need to get started? I love hibiscus teas, so I search the Internet to find out what part of the hibiscus is used for teas and discovered that it is the calyx that is used after the flower petals start to fade. I read that the petals of the red flowers can also be used. Wouldn't that give the tea a wonderful color?
Hibiscus tea has a sweet-tart flavor that has been compared to cranberries. This refreshing drink is delicious hot or cold. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) , also known as roselle, is a plant with bright pink, red or yellow flowers, native to tropical climes such as Jamaica and parts of Australia, though it is cultivated widely throughout the world. Dried hibiscus flowers contain vitamin C and other anti-oxidants. While the entire flower can be used for tea, generally only the calyx, the bulbous part at the base of the flower, is used.
Harvesting, Drying and Storing
When the flowers start to fade, clip them off just below the calyx. I saw mention that the calyx will turn red, but I have not seen the calyces turn anything but a little yellowish when the flower petals start to fade or have fallen to the ground. Remove the calyx from the petals. If you are drying the petals as well, remove the stamen from the middle and separate the petal. Lay all the parts on a drying screen or use your dehydrator to dry them. Store in an airtight container in a cool dark place until ready to use.
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
Lower High Blood Pressure with Hibiscus Tea
According to Dr. David Williams, hibiscus tea has been proven to lower high blood pressure within just 12 days of continuous use. Study participants who stopped drinking the tea for just three days noted their blood pressure slowly creep upward so the tea must be taken regularly for lasting effect.
Other Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
Lowers CholesterolIn addition to lowering blood pressure, a cup of hibiscus tea has also been shown to lower cholesterol in test-tube studies.
Boosts Immune SystemHibiscus tea continues its health benefits by boosting the immune system. Chock full of vitamin C and free-radical fighting antioxidants, it’s the ideal drink to ward off a cold or flu.Fights the Effects of AgingA hot cup of hibiscus tea may also help fight the effects of aging. Its high antioxidant content helps run off the free radicals that cause hardening of the arteries, cognitive decline and physical effects such as wrinkles and lines.May Aid in Weight LossAnother health benefit of hibiscus is weight loss. Because of its high antioxidant content, it can help reduce body fat naturally. Hibiscus may also help reduce belly fat because of its natural diuretic effect.
Acts as a Natural Body CoolantHibiscus also acts as a natural body coolant and is used in this way by African and Middle Eastern nations to ease the effects of a hot climate. Sipped hot or cold, hibiscus tea is an excellent way to re-hydrate and cool your body.
Reduces the Effects Eye StrainTired eyes from working on the computer all day? Try placing two cooled-off steeped hibiscus teabags over your eyes for 15-20 minutes. They can help reduce puffiness, redness and swelling and keep your eyes feeling and looking their best.May Prevent Stomach CancerAccording to research, hibiscus tea may help prevent stomach cancer. Its strong antioxidant properties have a toxic effect on cancer sells in the digestive system. Those struggling with chronic digestive difficulties may do well to use this tea as a preventative.Detoxifies the BodyThe health benefits of hibiscus tea continue by helping detoxify the body. Those living with autoimmune disorders or looking to lose weight may benefit most from regular detoxification.
Hibiscus Tea Contraindications
As with any natural remedy, hibiscus tea is not for everybody. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid using hibiscus. Do not take hibiscus with acetaminophen. Also, consuming more than five cups of hibiscus tea per day may lead to nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. As always, if you have a serious medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before trying any natural remedies.
A cup of hot hibiscus tea can help lower your blood pressure, cool you off and detoxify your body. It is an excellent health tonic sipped hot or cold. Drink it alone or with your favorite sweetener. For best health benefits of this tea, flavor with honey or Stevia instead of table sugar.
For high blood pressure relief without the side effects, a cup of hibiscus tea may be just what you need to stay out of the doctor’s office and keep healthy the natural way.
