Why Eating Dried Hibiscus is Better Than Drinking It as Tea (2024)

The hibiscus flower boasts wide-ranging heal health benefits. It has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties mostly in the form of tea. Hibiscus tea helps to prevent cardiovascular disease by reducing the amount of bad cholesterol in the body. It also helps to lower blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes. Today, hibiscus is popular for its ability to reduce hypertension.

Additional benefits include making digestion better, aiding in weight loss, relieving menstrual pain and being a wonderful anti-depressant. More recently, the added value of hibiscus in dried edible form has been realized. For one, eating dry hibiscus allows you to cut back on sugar that you would usually add to your tea. Here are more reasons why eating dried hibiscus is better than drinking it as tea.

Options

Dried hibiscus gives you plenty of options to incorporate its amazing health benefits to your diet. You can eat dried hibiscus flowers as a snack, sprinkle them onto your favorite meal to give it some added flavor or add them to your fruit salad for dessert. As such, drinking hibiscus limits your options by giving you only one way of enjoying the benefits.

Freshness

Dried hibiscus primary refers to whole, dried flowers. If you’re to make hibiscus tea, you’ll usually have it ground into smaller pieces, so they are a larger surface area than the flowers. A larger surface area means more opportunities for the tea to lose its flavor and aroma, leaving it rather dull.

Tea bags

Should you choose to buy hibiscus tea bags, be warned that having “hibiscus tea “on the label doesn’t guarantee health benefits or bioactive content. Pre-packaged teabags may be high in sugar and have limited active ingredients. Unlike dried hibiscus which is made from the dry flowers of the hibiscus plant, some hibiscus tea bags may not even contain the actual flower, so properties may vary.

Also, teabags are often blended for standardization. As a result, it’s not uncommon for a higher premium to be placed on the price of the tea-bags and standardization than on the character and quality of the flavor profile. Dried hibiscus, on the other hand, may have a flavor profile, appearance and aroma that may vary from season to season and year to year. This translates to a far wider range of aromas and flavors available from dried hibiscus than there is from standardized tea bags, for example.

Maximum value

Getting the maximum health benefit from hibiscus is more about how much of the nutrients you can extract from the flower than the form you choose. When comparing drinking hibiscus as tea with eating it dry, the latter gives you a better opportunity to enjoy maximum benefits from the flower. Drinking hibiscus tea means you have to wait for the water to extract all the active nutrients whereas eating the dried flowers gives you all the nutrients.

There’s also the issue of steeping times. Short steeping times are rarely sufficient to extract the beneficial nutrients from hibiscus.

Why Eating Dried Hibiscus is Better Than Drinking It as Tea (2024)

FAQs

Why Eating Dried Hibiscus is Better Than Drinking It as Tea? ›

Drinking hibiscus tea means you have to wait for the water to extract all the active nutrients whereas eating the dried flowers gives you all the nutrients. There's also the issue of steeping times. Short steeping times are rarely sufficient to extract the beneficial nutrients from hibiscus.

What is the best way to consume hibiscus? ›

What's the best way to take hibiscus?
  1. Tea: You can make hibiscus tea by steeping dried hibiscus buds (called calyxes) in boiling water. ...
  2. Powder: You can also buy hibiscus as a powder, which is made from dried plant parts that are finely ground. ...
  3. Extract: Hibiscus extract is a concentrated liquid form of the supplement.
Feb 16, 2022

Can I eat hibiscus flower everyday? ›

Although sometimes grown for strictly ornamental purposes, hibiscus is also well known for its culinary and medicinal applications. You can eat the flower straight from the plant, but it is usually used for tea, relishes, jam or salads. Many cultures drink hibiscus tea for its medicinal properties.

What happens if we eat hibiscus flower? ›

Hibiscus is found to be rich in anti-oxidants, which can be great in the prevention and treatment of various liver diseases. These anti-oxidants present in hibiscus help in neutralizing the free radicals present in the tissues and cells of the liver, while also having similar effects on the rest of the body.

Is there such thing as drinking too much hibiscus tea? ›

Drinking hibiscus tea can be enjoyed on a frequent basis, but like with most things, it can be overdone. Side effects of consuming too much hibiscus tea include transient dizziness and fatigue due to how it may affect blood pressure.

What are the side effects of dried hibiscus? ›

Hibiscus may cause blood pressure to drop. It has also been linked to dermatitis, headache, nausea, and ringing in the ear. Risks. Avoid hibiscus if you are allergic or sensitive to it or members of the Malvaceae plant family.

How many hibiscus eat per day? ›

Hibiscus is considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts in tea (2 to 4 cups per day) and foods. However, Kristin Draayer, M.S., RDN, advises that high doses can cause toxicity. Draayer also notes that hibiscus may interact with certain medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure or diabetes.

Is eating raw hibiscus good for you? ›

Hibiscus is high in antioxidants and offers many potential benefits. In particular, it may help promote weight loss, reduce the growth of bacteria and cancer cells, and support the health of the heart and liver.

What are the benefits of eating raw hibiscus flower? ›

Oral consumption of hibiscus flower extracts can lower total cholesterol levels by as much as twenty-two per cent. It also increases levels of HDL cholesterol a.k.a good cholesterol. It is the saponins that are present in hibiscus that bind to cholesterol and prevent the body from absorbing them.

Can you eat dried hibiscus? ›

You can eat dried hibiscus flowers as a snack, sprinkle them onto your favorite meal to give it some added flavor or add them to your fruit salad for dessert. As such, drinking hibiscus limits your options by giving you only one way of enjoying the benefits. Dried hibiscus primary refers to whole, dried flowers.

Does hibiscus detox your body? ›

“Both human and animal studies have shown that hibiscus may prevent liver damage. Some showed decreased markers of liver damage and some showed an increased concentration of detoxifying enzymes in the liver,” says Michalczyk.

Is hibiscus safe for kidneys? ›

So the next time you find yourself reaching for a cup of tea whether steaming hot or ice cold consider relaxing with a cup of hibiscus. Not only will the extra dose of antioxidants help keep your cells strong and healthy but your kidneys and urinary tract will also thank you for the health benefits this herb provides.

Can I eat a hibiscus from my yard? ›

What parts of Hibiscus sabdariffa are edible? The calyxes, leaves, and flower petals of Hibiscus sabdariffa are edible.

Is hibiscus toxic to liver? ›

Hibiscus tea is toxic to the liver in extremely high doses.

Who should not drink hibiscus? ›

People with diabetes or on high blood pressure medications should monitor their blood sugar and blood pressure levels when consuming hibiscus. This is because it may decrease blood sugar or blood pressure levels. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not drink hibiscus tea.

Is hibiscus tea hard on the liver? ›

Some research points toward high concentrations of hibiscus extract potentially causing liver damage. Most of the current research on hibiscus tea is limited to animal and test tube studies. More research is needed to fully understand the true benefits and risks the hibiscus flower has to offer.

Does hibiscus tea reduce belly fat? ›

Hibiscus tea may be an effective herbal remedy for weight loss. It has shown potential in preventing weight gain, promoting belly fat burning, and reducing fat absorption. Hibiscus could possibly lower cholesterol and triglycerides, too.

When should you stop drinking hibiscus tea? ›

As tempting as it might be to down a cup of hibiscus tea to help speed up the onset of labor, it's safest to completely avoid hibiscus throughout your pregnancy — including the third trimester and once you've reached full term.

Can hibiscus tea raise blood pressure? ›

Recent studies show that hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) tea can lower blood pressure as effectively as some standard anti-hypertensive drugs can. Hibiscus is widely consumed around the world as a ruby-colored, lemony beverage. Hibiscus is safe and, unlike most blood pressure drugs, rarely causes side effects.

How much hibiscus do I need for a cup of tea? ›

But using about 1 to 2 teaspoons of loose hibiscus flowers or hibiscus herbal tea blend per 8 oz. cup of water is a safe bet. Place the loose flowers or tea blend in an infuser and set the infuser in a teacup. Pour just boiled water over the flowers and steep for 3 to 4 minutes.

How long does it take for hibiscus to lower blood pressure? ›

A first study conducted in Iran has shown a significant drop in blood pressure after fifteen days of consumption of Hibiscus tea.

Is hibiscus a superfood? ›

Hibiscus Benefits: Top 10 Benefits of Hibiscus. Aduna Hibiscus Powder is a 100% natural and organic, sustainably-sourced superfood made from dried Hibiscus Sabdariffa, also known as Roselle.

Does hibiscus clean blood vessels? ›

Compounds in hibiscus may help to decrease inflammation in blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of clots and heart attacks. A review published in the Journal of Hypertension found that consumption of hibiscus led to a decrease in systolic blood pressure.

Does hibiscus tea increase estrogen? ›

Research reveals that hibiscus tea has high concentrations of polyphenols, including significant amounts of flavonoids. As such, hibiscus tea can lower blood pressure by blocking estrogen receptors in the body, which may cause an increase in circulating estrogen levels.

How to use hibiscus for hair growth? ›

Hibiscus hair oil for growth

Take 8-10 leaves and 4-5 flowers, and grind them into a fine paste. Heat 100 ml of Coconut Oil and add it to it. Massage it on the scalp. Use this Hibiscus hair oil 2-3 times weekly for increased hair growth.

What kind of hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure? ›

sabdariffa have significant effect on lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

What is the shelf life of dried hibiscus? ›

More Information
IngredientsDried Hibiscus Flowers. Allergen Contamination Potential: Peanut Shells.
Shelf Life1 Year
Basic PreparationRinse quickly with cold water prior to use.
Recommended ApplicationsPrimarily used in teas or warm beverages, dried hibiscus flowers introduces a floral flavor to any beverage.
7 more rows

What is dried hibiscus called? ›

You may have tried Agua de Jamaica at your favorite Mexican restaurant but there's so much more you can make with dried hibiscus flowers. Check out these 10 Flor de Jamaica, or dried hibiscus flower recipes!

What type of hibiscus is edible? ›

Commonly known as Rosella and Jamaican Sorrel, Florida Cranberry, and scientifically as Hibiscus sabdariffa, the flower, fruit, and leaves are all edible. Edible hibiscus is a short-day plant that grows in tropical and subtropical areas.

What does hibiscus do to the brain? ›

Drinking a glass of warm hibiscus tea on a daily basis elevates brain power, memory, concentration and boosts moods, thereby alleviating depression, anxiety, for improved nervous system functions and heightened productivity at work and home.

What effects does hibiscus have on the brain? ›

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, hibiscus has potent neuroprotective benefits, including the ability to lower neuroinflammation. Inflammation is a primary driver of Alzheimer's disease, making hibiscus an effective and nourishing intervention for those looking to promote brain health.

Is it better to drink hibiscus tea at night or in the morning? ›

Although you can drink hibiscus tea anytime throughout the day, the recommended time to drink hibiscus tea is after dinner. This is because hibiscus tea contains flavonoids that will help to lessen the absorption of fats.

Is hibiscus rich in iron? ›

Hibiscus is a great source of iron, which can help improve energy and focus, boost the immune system, regulate body temperature, and much more. Low iron levels can result in anemia and other health issues. People who menstruate or are over 65 may be at increased risk for low levels of iron.

Does hibiscus deplete potassium? ›

The patients in the hibiscus group had significantly lower baseline concentrations of serum potassium ions and urine sodium, potassium, and chloride ions than did patients in the placebo group.

Is hibiscus good for urinary tract infection? ›

Hibiscus sabdariffa ​is also traditionally known for its anti-oxidative properties, thanks to the very high content in bioflavonoids and anthocyanins, especially hibiscin, which has proven to be useful also in the prevention of UTIs.

What color hibiscus is edible? ›

Both the foliage and flowers of 'Panama Red' Hibiscus are edible. Young leaves have a tart, lemony flavor, are rich in vitamin C and thiamin, and may be eaten raw or cooked. Its red foliage also adds color and flavor to salads.

What to do with hibiscus flowers after making tea? ›

Warm Hibiscus Tea

Once boiled, place the hibiscus petals in a teapot or pitcher and cover with the water. Allow it to steep for 4-5 minutes, then strain, sweeten, and enjoy. It's best to use a strainer to place the petals, so removing them after the steeping process is easier.

Is it OK to plant hibiscus in the ground? ›

Tropical hibiscus will survive year round outdoors either in a pot or planted in the ground in USDA zones 9 to 11. You can still grow a hibiscus tree if you live in colder climates, but it should be brought inside during the winter.

What part of hibiscus is poisonous? ›

Are Hibiscus Poisonous to Children. No part of the Hibiscus plant, the leaves or the flowers, are poisonous to humans, so it is safe to have the plant around children, toddlers, and babies.

Is hibiscus good for gut? ›

Hibiscus is also an effective but gentle natural laxative and diuretic, helping to support regular bowel movements. Together with its high fibre content (around 33%) which supports the production of healthy gut bacteria, hibiscus can help your digestive system to thrive.

Which herb has been linked to liver damage? ›

Liver damage has been reported in a few people taking black cohosh (Actaea racemosa).

Is hibiscus good for inflammation? ›

The antioxidants in hibiscus tea boast anti-inflammatory properties that can help the body process cortisol (the stress hormone), and prevent a buildup of blood cells that leads to clots and high blood pressure.

Is hibiscus tea good for joints? ›

Hibiscus tea may tame inflammation

These compounds can help lower inflammation in the body, which, when out of control, can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis.

Can you take hibiscus with blood pressure meds? ›

Hibiscus might lower blood pressure. Taking hibiscus along with medications used for lowering high blood pressure might cause your blood pressure to go too low. Do not take too much hibiscus if you are taking medications for high blood pressure.

Are there any negatives to drinking hibiscus tea? ›

Side effects of consuming too much hibiscus tea include transient dizziness and fatigue due to how it may affect blood pressure. Note that drinking hibiscus tea, like any other herbal tea, can affect some medications negatively.

Is hibiscus tea hard on the kidneys? ›

The antioxidants found in hibiscus not only support a healthy heart, but also protect other important organs of the body. For instance, free radicals can be harmful to the kidneys; however, some studies found that the antioxidants in hibiscus were helpful in restoring and supporting damaged kidneys.

Is hibiscus tea good for colon? ›

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea has helpful properties that can make it a useful natural choice when one needs to regulate bowel movements. The plant acts as a mild laxative and, if taken regularly, can relieve chronic constipation. Staying "regular" can protect the body from various gastrointestinal disorders.

What does cinnamon and hibiscus tea do? ›

RELEASE STRESS: Hibiscus Cinnamon & Clove Tea is a rich source of Antioxidants. These antioxidants can have several benefits. It can help release stress and render a sense of calmness after a long day at work. It is also loaded with Vit C.

How many cups of hibiscus tea should I drink a day to lose weight? ›

You should drink 3 to 4 cups of this tea daily, half an hour before your main meals. The tea should be taken without sugar to achieve the expected effect, however optimal weight loss results will be noted when combined with a balanced diet and physical exercise.

How many times a week should you drink hibiscus tea? ›

Hibiscus is considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts in tea (2 to 4 cups per day) and foods. However, Kristin Draayer, M.S., RDN, advises that high doses can cause toxicity. Draayer also notes that hibiscus may interact with certain medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure or diabetes.

Does hibiscus tea make you look younger? ›

Not only does this help with age spots, this Hibiscus benefit can encourage an all round fresher, younger, smoother looking complexion. The natural acids present in Hibiscus help to purify your skin by breaking down dead skin and increasing cell turnover, they can even help to control acne breakouts.

Is hibiscus tea good for thyroid? ›

Hibiscus Tea for Thyroid. Imbalance in our hormones can lead to thyroid, in which hibiscus flower tea can help. Rich in antioxidants this tea boosts body's metabolism and aids in balancing out the production of hormones by the pancreas.

What medications does hibiscus tea interfere with? ›

Hibiscus tea may interfere with the effectiveness of some anti-malaria drugs. It can also interact with many other drugs including some for diabetes and high blood pressure.

Can you eat dried hibiscus flowers? ›

You can eat dried hibiscus flowers as a snack, sprinkle them onto your favorite meal to give it some added flavor or add them to your fruit salad for dessert. As such, drinking hibiscus limits your options by giving you only one way of enjoying the benefits. Dried hibiscus primary refers to whole, dried flowers.

Does cinnamon lower blood pressure? ›

Concentrated cinnamon supplements are another option. Cinnamon appears to help dilate and relax the blood vessels, which may help lower blood pressure.

Does hibiscus tea need to be refrigerated? ›

Hibiscus tea can be brewed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered or airtight glass container or pitcher.

How many cups of hibiscus tea for high blood pressure? ›

Studies show that drinking just 3 cups of Hibiscus tea a day can lower mild to moderate blood pressure. In fact Hibiscus induced reductions in blood pressure similar to that resulting from pharmaceutical medication.

How many tea bags for a gallon of hibiscus tea? ›

The method couldn't be easier. Fill a large container with water. Place about 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers (or use 5 tea bags of hibiscus tea) and 1/4 (or 3- 4 tea bags) cup loose leave black tea into the container. I used a 1 gallon glass jar with a glass lid that I bought here.

What can you eat or drink to quickly bring down high blood pressure? ›

Beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and avocado are other potassium-rich foods that may help lower blood pressure naturally. Kiwifruit: According to one study, eating three kiwifruit daily can help dramatically lower blood pressure. Kiwi is delicious chopped up in fruit salad or sprinkled on top of plain yogurt.

How do you prepare hibiscus for high blood pressure? ›

Steep 1/2 cup of the dried flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Add your sugar substitute and serve either hot or chilled over ice.

Can we eat hibiscus daily? ›

However, a study suggests that taking a twenty-one-day course of hibiscus flower extract orally can reduce blood glucose levels. High levels of cholesterol, that clogs up your arteries, can shoot up your risk of heart disease. That's why you need hibiscus.

Can we eat hibiscus flowers daily? ›

Hibiscus

Although sometimes grown for strictly ornamental purposes, hibiscus is also well known for its culinary and medicinal applications. You can eat the flower straight from the plant, but it is usually used for tea, relishes, jam or salads. Many cultures drink hibiscus tea for its medicinal properties.

Is hibiscus tea better for you hot or cold? ›

The truth is that it doesn't matter if you are going to drink hot or cold hibiscus tea. When the tea is made with the hibiscus flower itself, heat or cold are not able to change the various hibiscus tea vitamins, so you can drink it any way you prefer.

What part of hibiscus is edible? ›

Commonly known as Rosella and Jamaican Sorrel, Florida Cranberry, and scientifically as Hibiscus sabdariffa, the flower, fruit, and leaves are all edible. Edible hibiscus is a short-day plant that grows in tropical and subtropical areas.

Is it safe to drink hibiscus water? ›

Drinking hibiscus tea in moderation is generally considered safe. However, other products containing hibiscus are not regulated and may or may not contain what they claim. These include: supplements.

How much hibiscus tea should I drink to lower my blood pressure? ›

According to a recent US study, hibiscus infusion is an effective way to reduce blood pressure. Three cups of 25cL of hibiscus infusion (Hibiscus sabdariffa) a day, lower blood pressure, according to the results of a study published in the Journal of Nutrition.

Does hibiscus tea raise or lower blood pressure? ›

Lower Blood Pressure

Some studies show that drinking hibiscus tea may help reduce systolic blood pressure levels when compared to a placebo. Other studies show that it may help to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Is hibiscus tea good or bad for kidneys? ›

The antioxidants found in hibiscus not only support a healthy heart, but also protect other important organs of the body. For instance, free radicals can be harmful to the kidneys; however, some studies found that the antioxidants in hibiscus were helpful in restoring and supporting damaged kidneys.

Does hibiscus cleanse blood? ›

Both hibiscus flower and its leaves helps in purifying blood and increases blood circulation in the body.

What is the best drink in the morning for high blood pressure? ›

Beverages like skim milk, tomato juice, and beet juice may help decrease blood pressure.

What is the blood pressure release trick? ›

Take a deep breath from your core, hold your breath for about two seconds, then slowly exhale. Pause for a few moments and repeat. Relax! Stress is a key contributor to high blood pressure, so do whatever you can to relax.

What is the number one food that causes high blood pressure? ›

Salt or sodium

Salt, or specifically the sodium in salt, is a major contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease. This is because of how it affects fluid balance in the blood. Table salt is around 40 percent sodium. Some amount of salt is important for health, but it's easy to eat too much.

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