Hibiscus tea, also known as Agua de Jamaica, is a delicious infusion with a light fruity taste that reminds of cranberries. It is made from the outer parts of the hibiscus flower, also referred to as sepals or calyxes. 

The tea is known for its many potential health benefits, including its positive effects on high blood pressure. Since hibiscus is naturally caffeine-free, it can be consumed at any time of the day.

Making hibiscus tea is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. 

How to make the best hibiscus tea - step by step:

1. Gathering Ingredients

Before you begin making hibiscus tea, you'll need to gather your ingredients. You can use either fresh or dried hibiscus flower petals to make the tea.

If you have access to a hibiscus tree, you can harvest fresh flowers. Make sure to choose healthy pesticide-free, flowers.

If you don't have access to fresh hibiscus, you can always purchase dried flower petals. When buying dried hibiscus, try to choose a brand that uses high-quality, organic ingredients.

Once you have your hibiscus flowers, you're ready to start making the tea.

2. Preparation

Now that you have your hibiscus flowers, it's time to prepare them for tea. Hibiscus tea is made from the flower petals, also known as the calyx of the flowers. 

Start by carefully removing the flower petals from the stem. 

Then rinse the fresh hibiscus flower petals under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. If using dried hibiscus, skip this step.

Boil some water. The amount of water you'll need depends on how many cups of tea you want to make. 

A general rule of thumb is to use the petals from two fresh hibiscus flowers per cup of water. Otherwise, use around one teaspoon of dried hibiscus flowers per cup water. 

You can adjust these quantities according to your personal taste.

Add the flower petals to a mug or teapot. Once the water has boiled, pour it over them and wait. The leaves will slowly turn yellowish, while releasing their red colour in the water.

3. Steeping

Steeping allows the hibiscus flower petals to infuse their flavour and nutrients into the water. Generally you need to steep your hibiscus tea somewhere around 10 minutes. 

If you prefer tea with a stronger taste, just use more leaves per cup. Try not to steep hibiscus longer than 10 minutes, otherwise your tea could turn bitter.

4. Straining and Serving

Scoop the hibiscus petals out of your tea with a spoon, or alternatively, pour the tea through a strainer to remove the flower petals. This will prevent your tea from getting too bitter.

Hibiscus tea is typically red, but adding a splash of lemon will make it turn a vibrant pink colour.

Hibiscus tea can be enjoyed any time of the day. You can drink your tea either hot or cold. If you're making iced tea, allow the tea to cool and then pour over ice.

You can serve hibiscus tea plain, or you can add a slice of lemon, or a few fresh mint leaves for decoration. If you want to, you can sweeten your tea with honey, agave syrup, or stevia.

Tips for making hibiscus tea

• Be careful, because hibiscus flowers give off a red colour that can stain your clothes, countertops, etc.

• If you're using fresh hibiscus flowers, be sure to only pick them from plants that haven't been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.

• If you're using dried hibiscus flowers, make sure to store it in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve their flavour and nutritional value.

Safety and side-effects

Hibiscus tea is generally considered safe for most people, if consumed in moderation. However, not everyone reacts the same and some people might experience unwanted side-effects.

Possible side-effects of hibiscus tea include:

• nausea

• stomach upset

• constipation

• gas

• laxative effects

• sore throat

• vomiting

• digestive issues

• diuretic effects

• sleepiness

• allergies

In addition to that, hibiscus tea may influence:

• blood pressure

• blood sugar levels

• lipid levels

Some people may be allergic to hibiscus. If you experience any allergic reactions such as rash, itching, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, stop drinking the tea immediately and seek medical attention.

Hibiscus tea might also interfere with some medications.

Hibiscus tea is possibly unsafe during pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this tea. 

There may be other effects, interactions, and contraindications not included in the lists above. It is best to consult with your doctor before consuming it.

Hibiscus tea recipe

Ingredients:

2 fresh hibiscus flowers (or 1 tsp dried)

1 cup water

Honey or lemon (optional)

Directions:

1. If using fresh hibiscus, remove the flower petals from the stem, rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. If using dried hibiscus, skip this step.

2. Bring the water to a boil.

3. Add hibiscus petals to the teapot and carefully pour the boiling water over them.

4. Steep the tea for up to 10 minutes and then strain.

5. If desired, add a teaspoon of honey or a squeeze of lemon to the tea.

Serve and enjoy!