Hibiscus Tea with Ginger, Turmeric, and Citrus - Good Food Baddie (2024)

What is Hibiscus Tea?

Hibiscus derives from the tropical hibiscus sabdariffa flower (also known as roselle). This ancient herb has been consumed all over the world. This flower is found in places with warm climates like South America, Central America, The Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and India.

Make hibiscus tea by infusing dried or fresh hibiscus flowers with boiled water. After this process, the tea is chilled to create iced hibiscus tea (also known as Agua de Jamaica in Mexico).

Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

There are so many health benefits associated with hibiscus tea. It’s amazing how beneficial one plant can be for the human body! Hibiscus tea:

• Produces a calming effect on the body
• Promotes weight loss and reduces the risk of obesity
• Reduces inflammation
• Can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Improves liver health by reducing liver damage and fatty liver
• Has more Vitamin C than any other herbal tea, which can fend off the common cold and flu
• Promotes collagen production and moisturizes skin when used topically

HOT VS COLD BREW HIBISCUS TEA

Hot Hibiscus Tea

For hot tea, steep the hibiscus in covered boiled water, for 15- 20 minutes then strain.

Cold Brew Hibiscus Tea

For the cold method, place the hibiscus flower and all the ingredients (except the sweetener) in the water. Cover and place in the fridge for up to 4 hours. You can also make the hibiscus tea using the hot method and all the tea to cool completely and serve it with ice before enjoying.

Storage

Store leftover hibiscus tea in a pitcher in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat the tea, microwave it in 30-second increments.

Tips To Nail the Recipe

• Be sure to use food-grade hibiscus. Hibiscus from flower shops tends to be covered in chemicals so avoid those.
• Hibiscus stains everything it comes in contact with so be careful when handling it.
• Steeping the hibiscus in the water for too long results in bitter tea. In order to avoid this, don’t steep it for more than 20 minutes. Between 3 and 20 minutes is ideal, depending on how strong you like your tea.
• This is a great drink to make ahead. You can enjoy it straight from the fridge or reheat it.

Variations

• Add other citrus flavors to your tea by including lemon wedges, lime juice, or even orange zest.
• Boost the flavor and sweetness naturally with more fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
• You can use other spices like star anise or cardamom.
• For a deep lemony/ginger flavor, try lemongrass.

FAQs

What’s the best time to drink hibiscus tea?

Hibiscus tea is perfect for when you want to unwind. Enjoy it at the end of a long day or before bed for optimal effects.

Where can I find dried hibiscus flowers?

You can find them in your local Hispanic market. They may be referred to as “flor de Jamaica.” You can also order them online or find them in health food stores. Hibiscus tea bags work as well and may be readily available at your local grocery store.

Does hibiscus tea have side effects?

The benefits of hibiscus tea far outweigh the side effects. However, it may affect estrogen levels so pregnant people or those trying to conceive should probably avoid this drink. People with diabetes should also monitor their blood sugar and blood pressure levels when drinking this. If overconsumed, it can also affect your liver.

How much hibiscus tea can I consume daily?

As with most things, this should be consumed in moderation. Try drinking no more than 2 cups per day to get the health benefits without the side effects.