Hibiscus

Caffeine Free Herbal Tea

Country of Origin: Sudan 
Region: Nile River 
Shipping Port: Khartoum 
Grade: 1st 
Altitude: below 2000 feet 
Manufacture Type: Field grown, sundried
Cup Characteristics: A lovely deep red infusion similar to grenadine with a taste close to lemonade. 
Infusion: Scarlet red to deep burgundy - depending upon amount used. 
Ingredients: Luxury hibiscus

In history every herb and flower has a symbolic meaning. Hibiscus means grace and beauty. Hibiscus (hibiscus abelmoschus and hibiscus sabdariffa) a native to Africa is related to a bushy ornamental shrub that decorates many tropical gardens, has become a popular showy houseplant in Europe and North America and is a flowery accessory to many young women in the tropics. The calyces (often referred to as the hibiscus flower itself), which form the outer covering of the flower buds, are dried and used to make a rosy citrus flavored tea.

There are more than 200 species of hibiscus. The type used for tea is Abelmoschus or Sabdariffa. Hibiscus is rich in Vitamin A and C and beta-carotene making it a good antioxidant. Many purport that its health benefits are: 

• Replaces electrolytes and quenches thirst during and after athletic endeavors. 
• Eases symptoms of colds, flu and coughs

Hibiscus petals are commonly used as a base for herb and fruit infusions. When blended with rosehips and various other dried fruits the resulting drink is lively, fruity and Vitamin C and A healthy. If you are using hibiscus petals in a tea and you intend to add milk to the tea, keep the ratio of hibiscus to tea low, as hibiscus will curdle milk.