Agua De Jamaica; Delicious Hibiscus Iced Tea
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Hibiscus tea is a herbal beverage created by steeping the calyces (sepals) of the roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) flower, which are deep crimson or deep magenta in hue. It is prepared as both hot and cold beverages. This cranberry-like tangy-tasting hibiscus tea is produced from hibiscus flower infusion. The element is particularly well-liked throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Western Africa. It has been used to treat everything from high blood pressure to indigestion. It is also known as roselle or sorrel. The premise that this time-tested therapy provides a range of health advantages is also supported by contemporary science.

hibiscus iced tea/ pinterest.com

Antioxidants, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, and anthocyanin, are abundant in hibiscus plants. Foods high in antioxidants are incredibly beneficial for various medical ailments. In your body, antioxidants eliminate dangerous chemicals called free radicals. Free radicals harm cells, which is a factor in illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Fights inflammation

Several studies have demonstrated the hibiscus' capacity to reduce inflammation. Numerous diseases, including cancer, asthma, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, are influenced by inflammation. Hibiscus may have beneficial anti-inflammatory benefits, but more research is necessary.

Lowers BP

Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, which increases the risk of significant health issues like heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and kidney disease. Hibiscus tea has been exhibited in clinical studies to reduce blood pressure in adults. However, hibiscus and other herbal medicines only slightly lower blood pressure, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Promotes liver health

Numerous studies have found that hibiscus supports liver health. Due to its potent antioxidant activity, the extract shields the liver from several poisons. Even experiments on liver cells in the lab showed modest anti-cancer activity.

Here's how you can make Agua De Jamaica at home-

Ingredients

1. 2 quarts water

2. 3/4 to 1 cup sugar (depending on how sweet you would like it to be)

3. 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers

4. 1/2 cinnamon stick (optional)

5. A few thin slices of ginger (optional)

6. Allspice berries (optional)

7. Lime juice (optional)

8. Orange or lime slices for garnish

Method

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 4 cups of water. 

2. If desired, include some allspice berries, ginger pieces, and/or cinnamon. Heat until it reaches a boil and the sugar dissolves

3. Now turn off the flame

4. Add the dried hibiscus blossoms 

5. Cover the saucepan and allow all the ingredients to sit for 20 minutes

6. After straining them into a pitcher, discard the used hibiscus flowers, ginger, cinnamon, and/or allspice berries

7. Add the remaining 4 cups of water or ice and water if you want the beverage to cool down rapidly

8. Alternatively, you can make a bubbly version by including ice and cold soda water

9. Add more lime juice for a flavour that is akin to punch

10. Serve with an orange or lime slice over ice!