Hibiscus Flower Tea

Hibiscus Flower Tea comes from the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, specifically its flowers. When brewed, these Hibiscus flowers create a uniquely tart taste similar to that of cranberries or pomegranates. Its popularity has increased in recent years owing to Hibiscus Tea benefits. These benefits include lower blood pressure and anxiety relief.

Like most Herbal Teas, this infusion is caffeine-free. This makes it an excellent choice for those who're caffeine sensitive, those who're pregnant, and those who're simply looking to cut down. Here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, we pack it fresh to order.

The Cultural Significance of Hibiscus

The first known archaeological evidence of Hibiscus consumption dates back to Ancient Egypt. Historians theorise that the Egyptian Pharaohs brewed it as Tea to combat the desert heat. In Sub-Saharan Africa, many indigenous peoples used it to treat constipation, liver disease and even the common cold. Indeed, some of these Hibiscus Tea benefits still ring true today.

Knowledge of these benefits eventually spread to India, China, Mauritius, Hawaii, Fiji and Madagascar. It arrived in Europe by the 18th Century, and in North America by the 19th Century. Today, this Tea goes by many names. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Egypt - "Karkade" Tea
• India - "Gudhal" Tea
• India (Hindi-speaking regions) - "Arhul Ka Phool" Tea
• The Caribbean - "Sorrel" Tea
• Indonesia - "Rosella" Tea

Hibiscus continues to play a significant role in many cultures. In India, for example, Hindus offer it to their Goddess, Kali. In Hawaii, USA, a "maiden" places a single flower behind her right ear to indicate that she is single. A flower placed behind the left ear, on the other hand, tells otherwise interested parties that she is taken! Here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, meanwhile, we simply brew it for our delicate Hibiscus Flower Tea.

Useful Information

Type of Tea: Herbal Tea.

Origin: Nigeria.

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water. Infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.

How to Serve: Some add honey. Some add lemon. We, however, recommend serving it without any accompaniments. The choice is, of course, yours.

Tasting Notes: This bold, flavoursome beverage has distinct tart notes with herbaceous undertones.

Colour in Cup: Red liquor, dark in tone.

Health Benefits of Hibiscus Flower Tea 

Most health-conscious individuals associate Hibiscus Flower Tea with lower blood pressure. However, it can offer so much more. Indeed, it can even go as far as helping you to lose weight. First and foremost, it contains no more than 40 calories per serving. And this is a notably conservative figure, with most such beverages containing far fewer calories.

Furthermore, its frequent consumption can lower the absorption of starch and glucose. This particular benefit ultimately results in improved weight management.