Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is a summertime favorite in my home. It can be served hot, chilled and can be infused with various fruits, spices, and herbs. It has a slight sour almost cranberry-like taste. One of the best things about hibiscus tea, aside from some of its incredible health benefits, is that it is naturally calorie and caffeine-free. What is Hibiscus? Photo Credit: Muhammad M. Karim Hibiscus is a beautiful tropical flower whose origins are still being debated. It is grown and cultivated in many countries such as Sudan, Egypt, and Thailand. There are over 200 varieties of hibiscus; one of which is Malaysia's national flower, the Hibiscus rosa-senensis (locally known as Bunga Raya). One of the most common species used for tea is Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle). The typical part of the plant that is dried and used for making this tea is called the calyx, which is the protective layer around the actual flowers. Its Health Benefits and Properties Hibiscus contain