Hibiscus Tea

What Is Hibiscus Tea?

Hibiscus tea is an herbal tea brewed from the dried red-maroon calyces of the hibiscus plant (Hibiscus sabdariffa, popularly known as “roselle”). It's not related to the true tea plant; it's considered an “herbal tea” (infusion).

When brewed it gives a vivid, ruby-red color; its taste is notably sour and refreshing, reminiscent of cranberry or pomegranate molasses. It's commonly consumed hot as well as iced and sweetened as a refreshing drink; it's naturally caffeine-free.

Nutritional Values of Hibiscus Tea

Plain brewed hibiscus tea is an almost calorie-free drink; it mainly contains water, natural plant compounds from the flower and vitamin C, and no caffeine. Its calorie contribution is negligible unless sugar is added.

How Should Hibiscus Tea Be Consumed?

Hibiscus tea, as a caffeine-free, refreshing drink, can be part of daily fluid intake. As with herbal teas in general, pregnant women and those with certain conditions should be cautious with herbal drinks and consult the relevant health resource for their own situation.

This information is general; hibiscus tea is a drink, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Hibiscus Tea?

Good hibiscus has calyces that are dark red-maroon, dry, clean and have a distinctive sour-floral smell. Faded, moistened or stale-smelling products are not preferred.

• Calyces should be dark red-maroon and dry
• Should carry a sour-floral smell
• Faded or moistened product should not be bought

How to Store Hibiscus Tea?

Hibiscus is stored in a sealed, light-proof container, in a cool and dry place; moisture and light spoil its color and taste. Dried flowers keep for a long time, but consuming them in a reasonable time preserves their aroma.

Using Hibiscus Tea in Brewing

Hibiscus is brewed with hot water and drunk plain or with honey; it's also cooled and made into a refreshing drink with ice, sugar and lemon-citrus (such as Mexico's “agua de jamaica”). In some regions it's also used in syrups and jams.

How Is Hibiscus Tea Brewed?

A handful of dry hibiscus calyces is steeped in hot water for a few minutes; since it's sour and intense, the time and amount are adjusted to taste. For an iced version it's brewed, cooled and served with ice and sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hibiscus tea caffeinated?

No; hibiscus is an herbal tea and naturally contains no caffeine, which is why it's preferred by those who want to avoid caffeine.

Why does hibiscus tea taste sour?

Since the calyces contain natural organic acids, the tea has a notably sour taste; that's why it's often balanced with honey or sugar.

Is hibiscus tea drunk iced?

Yes; brewed and cooled, it's widely consumed as a refreshing summer drink with ice, sugar and lemon.