Spiced Ginger Peach Hibiscus Tea

I am so excited to share my newest recipe with you!  Ginger Peach Hibiscus Tea

I have always enjoyed commercial preparations of Hibiscus Tea but since I have been forbidden to consume caffeine I have been inspired to create my own caffeine free tea blends.

Recent studies show that hibiscus tea can lower blood pressure as effectively as some standard hypertension drugs can. Hibiscus is widely consumed around the world as a ruby-colored, lemony tasting beverage (it’s the main ingredient in Red Zinger tea). Hibiscus is a small tree with bright red flowers that are rich in flavonoids, minerals, and other nutrients. The flowers have a fruity taste that makes hibiscus popular as both hot and cold tea.  Hibiscus is safe and, unlike most blood pressure drugs, rarely causes side effects. Plus, hibiscus plants can be grown in much of the United States.

Hibiscus has diuretic properties, it opens the arteries, and it appears to act as a natural angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which means it slows the release of hormones that constrict blood vessels. In addition, hibiscus boosts immune function and provides valuable antioxidants.

I add ginger for its medicinal properties as well. Ginger root is known for its medicinal properties and it is used in many traditional medicines. The healing benefits of ginger are mainly due to its volatile oils and the high oleoresin content. One of the main benefits of ginger tea is it helps in the digestion process.. Shogoals and Gingerols present in the ginger neutralize the stomach acids, tones the digestive tracts muscle and evoke the secretion of digestive juices. Gingerols found in ginger are responsible for blocking the body’s reflex to vomit and also for preventing nausea by decreasing oxidative products made in the digestive tract that cause nausea to occur. It is also very good for healthy heart. It lowers the blood cholesterol levels and also reduces clotting and thinning of blood as well as being good for blood circulation and it has a good effect on circulatory system and helps in controlling high blood pressure.

The peaches and spices were added for flavor and for the water soluble vitamins that they offer.

I hope that you enjoy this tea as much as I do! 

Recipe:

1 Cup dried Hibiscus Petal

1" Ginger Root Sliced

1 Cinnamon Stick

3 Allspice Berries

4 or 5 Whole Cloves

1 Tsp Nutmeg

1 Peach Sliced

1/2 Cup Sugar or Sweetener to taste.

Boil Petals, Ginger and Spices in 6 cups of water for 20 minutes until the liquid is a dark ruby red color. Add sweetener to taste off the heat(use a VERY light hand for a healthier beverage).  Allow to cool for 30 minutes. Add sliced peaches to the cooled mixture.

This recipe will make enough concentrate for 2-3 gallons of tea depending on how strong you like it.

Enjoy!