Hibiscus Tea - Health Benefits

There are many different teas that provide numerous health benefits. One of the healthiest teas is hibiscus tea, also known as roselle, flor de Jamaica, karkade or sorrel. The tea is traditionally used as a mild medicine. In this article you'll read about five most important health benefits of this tea.

1. Hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure
One of the most powerful benefits of hibiscus is its ability to reduce blood pressure.

In one study, conducted by researchers from Tufts University of Boston, drinking three cups of hibiscus tea each day lowered blood pressure of people with mild to moderate hypertension by an average of 7 points after six weeks of treatment.

In another study, conducted by researchers from the Bastyr Center for Natural Health in Seattle, Washington, drinking 16 ounces of the tea daily for four weeks lowered blood pressure even by 10 points.

If you have problems with high blood pressure, hibiscus tea can be as effective in treating hypertension as antihypertensive drugs.

2. It's rich in vitamin C

If you're ill, hibiscus can help you recover more quickly. The tea is rich in vitamin C which may reduce the duration of illness. Moreover, vitamin C enhances iron absorption, which is especially helpful for vegetarians and vegans.

3. It's rich in antioxidants

Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants which destroy cell-damaging free radicals. Some experts believe that organisms age because cells are damaged by free radicals. Diet rich in antioxidants may not only improve your health, but also extend your life span.

4. It aids in weight loss

Consuming the tea after meal will help in breaking down starches and sugar. Consequently, it'll aid you in weight loss. Drinking the tea can also increase satiety which is especially important if you're on a diet. Moreover, hibiscus tea is a diuretic, so it elevates the rate of urination. The less fluid you'll retain, the less bloated you'll look.

5. It lowers LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease
Last but not least, a study performed by Shan Medical University's Institute of Biochemistry in Taiwan shows that the tea lowers LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.

As you can see, there are many health benefits of hibiscus tea. And I didn't share with you all of them - only the most important ones! Hibiscus is used as a mild herbal medicine by thousands of people in many countries all over the world. You too can benefit from this great tea!

PS. If you want to learn more about hibiscus tea, be sure to visit Hibiscus Tea website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Cartmann
http://EzineArticles.com/?Hibiscus-Tea---Health-Benefits&id=6787279