Hibiscus is a beautiful representative of the mallow family, which also includes cacao, marshmallow and baobab.

Hibiscus tea is a traditional drink in many countries including Mexico, Italy, Thailand, Egypt and Iran, to name a few. Historically, it was used to maintain normal blood pressure, support respiratory health, help maintain optimal body temperature and to treat the symptoms of other ailments.

Several scientific studies agree that hibiscus can significantly reduce blood pressure, including a 2008 study sponsored by the USDA and a 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition. A 2013 study found that drinking hibiscus tea might be as effective as blood pressure drugs like captopril and Lisinopril. Both the 2008 and the 2013 study also found that the beneficial effect was even greater in people and animals who already had higher than normal pressure.

Depending on a culture, hibiscus flower has different symbolic meanings. In China, for example, it is associated with fame, glory and wealth, while in North America it represents femininity, youth and delicate beauty.

Hibiscus tea has a sour taste, gorgeous red color and cranberry-like flavor, which is easy to recognize and fall in love with.