You may have never heard of Jamaica calyxes (Hibiscus sabdariffa), a shrubby plant that goes by other names such as roselle, karkade, and hibiscus. Although its origin is in Africa, it has been adopted in gastronomy around the world, from Mexico to Senegal.
Jamaican calyxes are red and are consumed in hot or cold dishes and drinks. They are easy to find in local markets and their price is very affordable.
Additionally, Jamaican calyxes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and natural compounds and phytochemicals.
Have you ever had water or tea with Jamaican chalices? Jamaican water is a refreshing drink ideal for combating heat and thirst, very popular in Mexico. It is known as "fresh water from Jamaica", its flavor is slightly acidic and very aromatic, and it is almost always drunk cold at meals and parties.
It is a very easy drink to prepare. To do this, boil a quantity of calyxes in water for five to ten minutes. We recommend using fifty grams of calyxes for each liter of water. The concentrated extract is then diluted with more water and sweetened to taste. Additionally, it can be combined with lemon juice and cinnamon to enhance its flavor.
"Jamaica tea" or "hibiscus tea" is a perfect drink for a cold afternoon. It is eaten hot and is very easy to prepare. In a cup of hot water, add between one and four grams of calyxes and let sit for five minutes.
In addition to their delicious taste, some studies suggest that Jamaican chalice drinks have positive health effects. These are some of its possible benefits.
Prevents or controls anemia
The consumption of Jamaican tea and water could help prevent anemia, since they provide iron and vitamin C. For example, it is recommended to drink half a liter of water prepared with 35 grams of calyxes per liter of water, twice a day, at at least for 14 days.
Lowers cholesterol
Both Jamaica tea and water have soluble fibers and natural compounds that could help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the blood.
For example, it is recommended to drink Jamaican tea after eating, twice a day for 21 days.
Reduces blood pressure
Jamaican water and tea have compounds called anthocyanins, which are what give it its red color. Therefore, frequent consumption of these drinks could help reduce blood pressure. But how does he do it?
The anthocyanins in hibiscus have the ability to inhibit an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for increasing blood pressure in the body. For this, it is recommended to drink a cup of Jamaican tea before breakfast and another before dinner for a month.
Reduces or controls blood sugar
Consumption of Jamaican tea and water could help lower or regulate blood sugar levels.
Rosehip has anthocyanins and other natural compounds called polyphenols that can inhibit some enzymes that are responsible for the digestion of the carbohydrates or sugars we eat.
To obtain these benefits, it is recommended to drink a cup of hibiscus tea twice a day for at least twenty-one days.
Natural diuretic
Consumption of Jamaican tea and water could help eliminate toxins from our body through urine and prevent fluid retention. It could also protect our kidneys from the appearance of kidney stones and stones.
To achieve these benefits, it is recommended to drink a cup of hibiscus tea twice a day regularly.
Increases the body's defenses
Due to the variety of natural compounds with antioxidant properties, Jamaica tea and water could help strengthen our body's immune system. In addition, several of the compounds found in Jamaican calyxes could help reduce cell inflammation processes, which are linked to several diseases.
As we have mentioned before, drinking water and Jamaican tea is a good option to refresh yourself. In addition, studies mention that it is safe to consume and does not harm health.
But it is important to keep in mind that:
This article was originally published on The Conversation. Luis Miguel Anaya is a Master and Doctor in Food Sciences, and Zuami Villagrán is a nutritionist and teacher in Food Science.
