THE TEA LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE
The
hibiscus flower is revered for its beauty, and it deserves equal respect for
its healing powers. Many species have been used in traditional medicine, in
addition to providing beverage teas. The tea is sour and tart—think
cranberries—so people often add sugar and/or citrus.
Now
there's exciting research backing up hibiscus tea's medicinal benefits,
especially for heart health. Scientists have confirmed that the deep red
flowers gently lower blood pressure , thanks to their diuretic properties
(they help the body eliminate excess water) and the fact that their
anthocyanins block angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), the compound that
causes blood vessels to constrict—exactly what the prescription combo of lisinopril
and hydrochlorothiazide does, but to a milder degree and without side effects.
Hibiscus Tea Recipe
This makes
a great, refreshing tea.
The ingredients:
4 c water
3 Tbsp dried or 4-5 Tbsp fresh hibiscus flowers
1 cinnamon stick
1 Tbsp raw sugar
Juice of 1 orange
Boil water and pour over hibiscus and
cinnamon stick. Steep for 20 minutes. Strain out hibiscus and cinnamon stick.
Add sugar and orange. Serve hot or iced.
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