A tangy, aromatic herbal infusion made by steeping dried hibiscus petals with orange peel and a touch of cinnamon. This naturally vibrant tea promotes cardiovascular balance, antioxidant defense, and gentle digestive support—served hot or cold.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Steep time: 10–15 minutes
- Total time: 15–20 minutes
- Servings: 4 cups (1 liter)
Ingredients
- 4 cups (1 liter) filtered water
- 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus petals (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
- 2 thin slices of Orange (with peel, organic recommended)
- 1 small cinnamon stick (Ceylon preferred)
- Optional: 1–2 cloves or a small piece of fresh ginger
- Optional natural sweetener: 1 teaspoon raw honey or stevia (add after steeping)
Instructions
- Bring water to a gentle boil in a pot.
- Remove from heat. Add hibiscus petals, orange slices, cinnamon stick, and any optional spices.
- Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain into a teapot or jar. Sweeten if desired.
- Serve warm, or chill for a refreshing iced version.
Estimated Nutritional Value (Per 250 ml cup)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 0–5 kcal (unsweetened) |
| Vitamin C (trace from orange) | ~5–10% DV |
| Polyphenols & Anthocyanins | Present in hibiscus |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Caffeine | 0 mg |
Health Benefits
1. Cardiovascular and blood pressure support
Hibiscus tea has been shown to lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults with mild hypertension. Anthocyanins and polyphenols support vascular elasticity and nitric oxide activity.
Reference: McKay DL & Blumberg JB. (2007). A review of the health benefits of Hibiscus sabdariffa. Phytotherapy Research.
2. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Hibiscus and cinnamon both provide potent flavonoids and phenolic acids that protect cells against oxidative damage and support immune modulation.
Study: Ali BH et al. (2005). Hibiscus sabdariffa: phytochemistry and pharmacology. Food and Chemical Toxicology.
3. Digestive and metabolic balance
Cinnamon supports blood sugar regulation and digestion by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing post-meal glucose spikes. Orange peel aids in mild digestive stimulation and gut motility.
Source: Ranasinghe P et al. (2013). Cinnamon in glycemic control. Nutrition Journal.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Ceylon cinnamon, not cassia, for lower coumarin content and better taste.
- Steep covered to retain the aromatic oils from orange and spices.
- Serve iced for a refreshing summer beverage or as a base for a natural mocktail.
- Storage: Keep in the fridge up to 3 days. Flavor intensifies slightly over time.
- Sweeten only after cooling slightly, to preserve honey’s enzymes (if using).
- Color note: Hibiscus will turn water deep red to magenta; staining is natural.
0 comments on “Hibiscus Tea with Orange and Cinnamon”Add yours →