8 Benefits Of Zobo Drink (Hibiscus Tea)
Hibiscus plants are found in various species around the world, including across Africa.
The most commonly used variety for making zobo drink, both in Nigeria and globally, is known as roselle.
Outside of Africa, hibiscus rosa-sinensis is also recognized for its medicinal uses in Indian Ayurveda.
Hibiscus tea is made by steeping dried hibiscus/zobo leaves in boiling water and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
It has a tart, sour taste, which is why it is often referred to as “sour tea,” with a flavor similar to cranberry juice.
In the Caribbean, a hibiscus beverage called sorrel is made by adding ginger, sugar, and rum to the hibiscus brew.
However, for those looking to gain health benefits from hibiscus tea, it’s recommended to avoid adding sugar or alcohol, as they may counteract the drink’s health advantages.
Zobo drink not only tastes refreshing but may also offer numerous health benefits.
These range from managing high blood pressure and lowering cholesterol to protecting the liver, relieving menstrual cramps, and serving as an antidepressant.
Below are some potential health benefits of hibiscus tea:
1. Zobo drink may relieve menstrual pain
Traditionally, hibiscus tea has been used to relieve cramps and menstrual discomfort. It is believed to help restore hormonal balance, which can ease symptoms such as mood swings, depression, and overeating during menstruation.
2. Zobo drink may manage high blood pressure
Regular consumption of zobo drink may help lower blood pressure in individuals with pre-hypertension or mild hypertension. A study published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research found that it has antihypertensive and cardioprotective properties, making it beneficial for people with high blood pressure and those at risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Hibiscus tea may lower cholesterol
Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine suggests that zobo drink can lower levels of harmful LDL cholesterol, helping to protect against heart disease and safeguard blood vessels. The hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of hibiscus tea may also benefit individuals with diabetes or blood sugar disorders.
4. Zobo drink may protect the liver
A study in the BMC Complementary Medicines and Therapies journal highlighted the antioxidant properties of hibiscus tea, especially its flavonoids, which may support liver health. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in the body, helping to prevent disease and promoting overall health, potentially increasing lifespan.
5. It contains anti-cancer properties
According to research in the Cancer Letters journal, hibiscus tea contains hibiscus protocatechuic acid, which has antitumor and antioxidant effects. Hibiscus may help slow down the growth of cancer cells by promoting apoptosis, or programmed cell death.
6. Hibiscus tea is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent
Zobo drink is rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that strengthens the immune system. Vitamin C also helps alleviate discomfort caused by fever and inflammation.
7. Zobo leaf drink may be an antidepressant
Hibiscus tea contains various vitamins and minerals, including flavonoids, which have been shown to have antidepressant properties. A study supported by CNPq and CAPES in Brazil found that consuming hibiscus tea could help calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
8. Zobo drink may promote weight loss
A study in the Molecules journal revealed that hibiscus can reduce lipid accumulation and prevent the development of fat tissue in the body. These effects suggest that hibiscus tea may aid in weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
