Hibiscus Tea (Zobo) Health Benefits

Hibiscus flower tea, popularly called ‘Zobo’ in Nigeria is common among the Hausas i.e in Northern Nigeria. However, due to the nutrition and immense health benefits, it is now known and consumed by the various tribes. Hibiscus flower tea is not only popular in Nigeria. Other countries where hibiscus tea is consumed and popular are: Mexico, Central America, Egypt, The Middle East, Thailand, China and some other African Countries. It appears as a bright red colour and is naturally tart. Apart from its attractive red colour and unique taste. Hibiscus flower tea is among the few teas that are naturally caffeine free.
Its Nutrients includes:
Vitamin C: It is loaded with vitamin C and a variety of organic acids which include, tartaric, citric and maleic acids. It also has the active flavonoids cyaniding and delphindin which give the tea its red colour. Every 100g of Hibiscus contains approximately 49 calories, 0.1g of fat, 12.3g of carbohydrates, 14mg of iron and 1.7mg of calcium. It is also rich in beta carotene, about 300mg per cup.
About 100 grams of Hibiscus fruit contains 49 calories, 12.3 of carbohydrates with 2.3 occurring as dietry fibre 1.9 of protein, l4mg of vitamin C, 300 mg of beta-carotene 57mg of phosphorus 2.9mg of iron and 1.7mg of calcium. Since about 2g of fruit is used per cup of tea, you can expect an 8 oz serving of unsweetened hibiscus tea to contain a negligible amount of calories, less than 1g of carbohydrates approximate) 0.3mg of vitamin C and 6mg of vitamin C and 6mg of beta-carotene.

It is rich in bioflavonoids such as proanthocyanidins, also found in grape seed extract. These lower cholesterol, improve circulation and protect cells from free radical damage.
Health Benefits Includes:

• Digestive aid
• Cough
• Fever
• Diuretic
• Lower Blood Pressure
• Lower Cholesterol
• Weight loss properties
• Reduce signs of aging by its antioxidant properties

Benefit heart disease as well as those suffering from circulatory problems
The vitamin C in Zobo helps fight cold and other infections by strengthening the immune system.
When taken with honey helps reduce stress levels

• Helps protect cell damage due to the presence of Copper
• Protects the body against bacteria attack and also increase defense mechanism
• It is both anti-microbial and anti-carcinogenic in nature
• Hibiscus tea contains natural plant substances called polyphenols, including antocyanins – natural antioxidants that may help neutralize disease causing free radical in the body and inhibit inflammation
• It is an excellent way to keep hydrated being a low calorie drink
• It is rich in bioflavonoid such as proanthocyanidines, also found in grape seed extract. These lower cholesterol and improve circulation
• It may also benefit people with type 2 diabetes
• Hibiscus tea may also benefit the kidney by preventing kidney stone.

It is also known to contain an enzyme inhibitor that blocks the production of amylase. Amylase breaks complex sugar and reduces the absorption of carbohydrates. The intake of hibiscus tea on a regular bases helps to prevent constipation and bladder infections

*People with low blood pressure may be cautious and consult with their physician before consuming hibiscus tea, since it is known to lower high blood pressure.