I recently came across an article about a tea which is known as “Zobo” in Nigeria and apparently “Roselle” in other regions. For Americans, it’s a vibrant tisane know as Hibiscus. Earlier this year I returned to my second home in Southern Spain and much to my delight, I found a container of Hibiscus tea in the cabinet. I’ve always been drawn to the amazing color this tea produces but I’m reminded of the numerous health benefits that have been associated with this drink.

According to the article, Hibiscus Tea has the ability to “…treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, disturbances of the digestive and immune system, and inflammatory problems as well.” (Source)

It is always a bit frustrating when references are not listed to support health claims but it’s easy enough to google the information if you’re so inclined. If you are determined to drink it without sweeteners–which is always the best way to go–it takes a bit of time to adjust to the pungent flavor; which in a way is similar to unsweetened cranberry juice. Just imagine a warm summer’s day and a glass of this iced HIbiscus tea. Now that’s a thirst quencher.

Isn’t it wonderful that Mother Nature created so many medicinal plants to keep us healthy? Our great-grandmothers knew so many of these natural remedies which were lost when the pharmaceutical companies changed the course of healing from natural products to synthetic substitutes. With a focus on the most active compound, they left out hundreds of supportive phytochemicals that prevent any side effects and optimize the healing compounds of the complete plant. Today, with this new respect for the knowledge of the “Old wives tales”, we can return to the old healing traditions that have helped countless people around the globe. Ayurvedia is an excellent example of such an ancient healing tradition: Those interested in this system can always find pertinent information on Deepak Chopra’s website.

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