Photography by Meutia Chaerani / Indradi Soemardjan
One in three Americans suffers from high blood pressure. But you might be able to sip your way to better health.
Hibiscus tea boasts a multitude of health benefits, including the ability to lower blood pressure. In one study, two cups of strong hibiscus tea (a total of five tea bags) each day lowered blood pressure as much as medication. In another study, three cups of hibiscus tea every day for six weeks lowered systolic blood pressure—the top number—by an average of seven points.
Hibiscus tea also packs a greater antioxidant punch than almost any other beverage—even more than trendy green tea and matcha tea.
If sipping a piping hot cup of tea on a muggy St. Louis day doesn’t sound appealing, then you can reap the rewards of hibiscus in this icy, refreshing Hibiscus Punch.
Cold Brew Hibiscus Punch
Adapted from Dr. Michael Greger of NutritionFacts.org
• 8 cups water
• 4 hibiscus tea bags (consider Celestial Seasonings Red Zinger)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Erythritol or date sugar to taste
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
In a large pitcher, combine water, tea bags, lemon juice, mint leaves, and sweetener to taste. Stir well, and let sit in the refrigerator overnight to brew. Pour over ice, and enjoy. This fruit punch-like beverage is safe for adults and children.
