Zobo drinks are popular beverages in Nigeria and other parts of the world. It is also known as hibiscus tea, sour tea, or even kardade drink in some parts of the world. Zobo drinks are also used for medicinal purposes.
Zobo drinks can be used as refreshment drinks at parties or enjoyed at home. The bright red drink has many advantages and nutritious benefits as well.
The main ingredient in making the zobo drink is Hibiscus. Hibiscus is a part of the hibiscus plant that grows in most tropical and subtropical regions. In some parts of the Caribbean, the drink is called sorrel.
Here is a simple guide on how to make a nice zobo drink.
How to Make Zobo Drinks
Zobo drinks are made from the hibiscus plant which is red in color. The common variety of zobo drinks are called roselle.
The drink is made by adding dry zobo leaves to boiling water. it has a sour taste and can be enjoyed both hot or cold. To enjoy zobo , these ingredients are needed:
Ingredients
- Zobo leaves
- Pineapple
- Cloves
- Pineapple peels
- Water
- Fresh ginger
- Orange, lemon or lime
Preparation steps
- Rinse the zobo leaves with water (cold or warm)
- Grind the cloves into powder form
- Wash and blend ginger
- Wash, peel and cut the pineapple into thin slices
- Add the washed zobo leaves in a pot and pour enough water to cover the leaves totally.
- Let it boil and cook for some minutes until it boils very well
- Blend and add the pineapple juice into the zobo drink
- You can add artificial flavors if you want
- It can be served with ice or sliced fruits and can be enjoyed with a snack
- Pour and keep in the refrigerator (optional)
Health Benefits of Zobo Drink
1. Zobo drink relieves menstrual pain
It is believed that the zobo leaf may relieve menstrual pain. This is a traditional belief and tends to work for some women. the drink relieves cramps and menstrual pain and helps restore hormonal balance.
It also helps stimulates irregular flow in menstruation. It is believed that the drink delays the onset of menopause.
2. It regulates high blood pressure
The drink may be used to manage high blood pressure in pre-hypertensive and hypertensive adults. Research has shown that the drink contains antihypertensive and cardioprotective properties which are beneficial for people that are hypertensive.
3. Zobo drinks may lower cholesterol
Research has shown that zobo drink helps to lower the levels of cholesterol in the body.
If so, then it protects that heart against diseases. It is said that the drink has hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties that are beneficial for people with diabetes.
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4. It protects the liver
The drink has antioxidant properties which may help in treating liver diseases. The antioxidants help protect the body from diseases and strengthens the body’s tissues and cells.
5. It has anti-cancer properties
The hibiscus tea contains hibiscus protocatechuic acid which has antitumor and antioxidant properties. it slows down the growth of cancerous cells.
6. It is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent
The drink is rich in ascorbic acid which helps boost the immune system. Ascorbic acid is also known as vitamin C is good for the body.
It prevents inflammation of the urinary tract and kidneys.
7. It may be an antidepressant agent
Research has shown that zobo drink has many vitamins and minerals which usually contain antidepressant properties. Taking zobo drink can help Zobo drink may help reduce anxiety and depression.
8. Zobo drink helps in weight loss
It is said that zobo may reduce lipid accumulation and also lowers the development of fat tissue in the body. Researchers believe it can be useful for weight loss and detoxifies the body as well.
9. Improves sperm count and motility
Zobo help improves sperm fertility in men when it is taken regularly.
Some Side Effects of Zobo Drink
1. Excess of vitamin C
Drinking too much zobo may cause diarrhea and vomiting. It is said that the drink contains more vitamin C than orange so too much of it is bad.
2. Low blood pressure
While it is good for high blood pressure, it is not good for persons with low blood pressure.
3. Lowers estrogen level
It is believed that too much consumption of zobo drinks can reduce estrogen levels. It can even cause miscarriage or premature labor during pregnancy.
