Remain Healthy With Flower Drinks
August 7, 2008
While, many of us are aware of the therapeutic value of drinking a hot cup of chamomile tea, and perhaps the closest we have come to refreshing ourselves with a drink made from flowers, why not hit your taste-buds with another health drink made from the beautiful hibiscus flower.
Made from the petals of the hibiscus sabdariffa, a rich ruby red in colour and a unique infusion made from pure spring water, this new health drink is naturally caffeine-free, with no artificial additives, colouring or flavours. As well, this floral beverage is a rich source of anti-oxidants to mop up harmful free radicals in the body, including reducing blood pressure.
This unusual concoction made from an infusion of dried hibiscus flowers has been used since ancient times by West Africans, who loved to brew home-made drinks from infusions of dried calyx of hibiscus flower bushes.
However, for centuries, the petals of the hibiscus flowers have been used the world over to treat high blood pressure, liver disorders and cancer. Also known as Indian sorrel, rosella or Florida cranberry, extracts from the flower, contain naturally occurring powerful anti-oxidants called anthocyanins, which protect cells in the body.
Anthocyanins are plant flavonoids found commonly in flower petals and berries and contain a range of health-promoting benefits, having some of the strongest effects of any plant compound. Powerful anti-oxidants as well, they also help reduce inflammation and protect blood vessels. Some scientists also believe that the powerful anti-oxidants prevalent in hibiscus flowers can have benefit the heart the same way as red wine and tea, including controlling cholesterol levels and improving circulation.
So, a brew of dried hibiscus flower may be just what the doctor ordered, as consumers of all ages seek more natural soft drinks with added health benefits, as well as, innovative and healthy alternatives to alcohol. So, why not make a floral infusion, experimenting by adding different flavours, perhaps, a hint of peppermint or a dash of grapes.
Perfect for either cold winter evenings or warm summer noons, have your floral infusion served hot or chilled to perfection and drive the health benefits of drinking red wine, without getting sizzled!
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