Although sometimes grown for strictly decorative purposes, Hibiscus is also well known for its culinary and medicinal uses.
You can eat the flower directly from the plant, but it is usually used in tea, dishes, jam or salads.
Hibiscus has a rich and interesting history and has been cultivated by humans in various cultures for thousands of years.
Its origin is associated with the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia.
It is known by different names in different regions of the world.
In Ancient Egypt, the hibiscus have been associated with the goddess of beauty and love, Hathor. It has been used in the rituals and cosmetics of the ancient Egyptians. Hibiscus is also widespread in India, where it is called "jasminchakra" in Hindi.
In Indian culture, it is used in many aspects of daily life, including as a flavoring, herb, and even as a cosmetic product.
Many cultures drink hibiscus tea for its medicinal properties. Some research suggests that hibiscus can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
The tea is bright red and has a tart, slightly sour taste. It can be served hot, but is especially refreshing as a cold drink with ice on hot summer days.
Hibiscus is a typical representative of flower power.
The tart flavor of karkade (Hibiscus) tea is similar to that of cranberries and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. There are several hundred species of hibiscus, varying according to their location and the climate.
Hibiscus tea is rich in powerful antioxidants and therefore can help prevent diseases caused by the accumulation of free radicals. Different studies show the link between free radical damage and the prevalence of dementia, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The high dose of antioxidants in Hibiscus tea may be able to reduce the risk of developing such diseases.
In addition to having antioxidant properties, hibiscus can help fight bacterial infections. Karkade extract inhibits the activity of Escherichia coli, a strain of bacteria that can cause symptoms such as cramping, gas and diarrhea.
Hibiscus also fights eight more strains of bacteria and is as effective as some drugs used to treat bacterial infections.
And it is not only helpful to lower the blood pressure, but the aromatic hibiscus tea can help lower blood cholesterol levels, another risk factor for heart disease.
People with diabetes who drink hibiscus tea regularly have a significant improvement in "good" cholesterol. At the same time, there is also a decrease in the levels of "bad" cholesterol.
According to some studies, Hibiscus can strengthen the health of the liver and help it work efficiently.
For example, taking hibiscus extract for 12 weeks improves liver health.
A condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to liver failure is normalized after 3 months of drinking Hibiscus tea.
It's all thanks to the fact that karkade (hibiscus) tea can increase the concentration of several detoxifying enzymes in the liver by up to 65%.
Karkade tea is great to drink after dinner or when you're craving something sweet. You will see for yourself that this desire will quickly disappear.
Consuming karkade tea can help calm the nervous system and can reduce anxiety and depression by creating a relaxed feeling in the mind and body. So definitely give it a try if you're feeling anxious. It is especially effective before going to bed. It also contains a high dose of vitamin C, which we know is responsible for keeping our immune system healthy.
Karcade (Hibiscus) is also high in iron, a mineral that keeps the immune system balanced and helps the body build red blood cells. Plus, vitamin C helps increase iron absorption.
In addition to its many health benefits, hibiscus tea is delicious and easy to prepare at home. Simply add dried karkade flowers to a teapot and pour boiling water over them. You can also use the leaves, but their taste is not so rich, and you will lose its distinctive color. Let it sit for five minutes, then strain, sweeten to taste and enjoy.
Hibiscus tea can be consumed hot or cold and has a tart taste that can be balanced with a 🥄 of honey and the addition of lemon juice.
Enjoy your refreshing Hibiscus tea and stay healthy 🌞
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Stob, Bulgaria