In other countries, Hibiscus drink is referred to as sorrel or roselle drink or as hibiscus tea, and it’s enjoyed for its fruity, tart, and refreshing taste. You can add different herbs or fruits like ginger and pineapple in the preparation process to make a truly delightful drink, best enjoyed while cold. 

This article examines seven potential health benefits of consuming hibiscus drinks. They are as follows:

1. It has antioxidant properties

Antioxidants are substances that slow down or prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and may help prevent damage to organs or diseases caused by a buildup of free radicals.  A study in rats showed that hibiscus extracts increased antioxidant enzymes and reduced the activity of free radicals.

2. Lowers blood pressure 

Some studies suggest that hibiscus drinks can help reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. However, take care not to consume too much, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you make the drink a treatment plan, especially if you’re on blood pressure drugs like hydrochlorothiazide. The tea can cause your blood levels to drop to unsafe levels.

3. It helps reduce cholesterol levels.

Studies show that people who drank hibiscus drink experienced an increase in HDL and a reduction in LDL proteins( good cholesterol and bad cholesterol, respectively). So, if you have high cholesterol levels and want to reduce them, consider making hibiscus drink a part of your diet. It’s also easy to prepare at home.

4. It helps with weight loss

Excessive weight gain can be attributed to glucose and starch intake. However, hibiscus drink(the roselle leaves) prevents the production of amylase, which is responsible for the absorption of starch and carbohydrates. So once glucose absorption is reduced, the weight loss process can increase.

5. It supports liver health

Hibiscus extract has been found to protect the liver from toxins due to its potent antioxidant property. According to several studies, hibiscus helps with liver health. It also shows anti-cancer activity in laboratory tests of liver cells.

6. It helps to induce menstruation.

Hibiscus affects women’s hormone, estrogen, meaning it can induce menstruation. It can benefit ladies with irregular menstruation as it can help regulate your period. If you struggle with cramps, you can make a hibiscus drink without additives for relief. This can be enjoyed either cold or hot.

However, if you’re pregnant or on birth control pills or breastfeeding, you should avoid hibiscus.

7. It helps prevent constipation

Hibiscus tea helps keep your digestive system running by removing water and sodium from the body, thereby helping with normal urination and bowel movements. So, continue drinking but ensure not to go overboard with it. For example, pregnant women should not consume more than one litre of hibiscus daily because of the aluminium and magnesium content. 

Other studies show that excessive consumption of hibiscus can cause liver damage in human beings, so basically, watch your intake.

As hibiscus drink(roselle, sorrel, or zobo) has several benefits, it’s also essential not to binge-drink it as it also has added risks that come with over-drinking. As with everything, moderation is key! 

If you need immediate doctor care and attention, all you have to do is open the HealthAid app and request one!