During menopause, which usually starts between the 40s and 50s, women suffer from night sweats, weight gain, mood swings, hot flashes, slowed metabolism, and sleep problems.

This is the reason some take hormone therapy, low dose antidepressants, vaginal estrogen, clonidine (a pill for high blood pressure), and gabapentin (medicine for seizures). 

But these treatments are not always the best choice for most women, and teas may be an effective and less expensive option. 

Also, there are multiple options to weigh in mind. If you take black cohosh root, ginseng, chasteberry tree, red raspberry leaf, licorice, green tea, or ginkgo biloba, it is time to try hibiscus tea for better results. 

What is Hibiscus Tea? 

Hibiscus is very versatile. Aside from Red sorrel, Lo-Shan, and Sour tea, you can make a tea out of hibiscus flowers. 

This herbal drink is typically made of dried hibiscus buds. It is brewed, resulting in red crimson color. It tastes fruity like cranberry tea. It is naturally sweet, and there is no need to use any sweetener. Also, it does not have caffeine content. 

Hibiscus generally grows in most parts of Asia, including India and Malaysia. It is also found in Europe, North America, South America, and Africa. 

Hibiscus tea has been consumed for centuries as it is believed to lower blood pressure. It is also packed with soluble fiber, vitamin C, quercetin, chlorogenic acids, beta carotene, riboflavin, and iron. 

Why Should You Drink Hibiscus Tea? 

It May Fight Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is common among women during the menopausal stage because the estrogen in the body decreases. 

But hibiscus tea is great for lowering inflammation, thanks to its high anthocyanins levels, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also recommended for women suffering from menstrual cramps. 

It May Relieve Hot Flashes 

Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. According to WebMD, over 2/3 of North American women have hot flashes. 

A hot flash is a sudden feeling of heat, sweating, or flushed face. It begins when blood vessels near the surface of the skin widen to cool off. Other women may have chills or a quick heart rate. 

If you have tried many treatments and nothing works, a cooling herb like hibiscus may help. But this may not be effective for other women. 

It May Regulate Blood Pressure

Aside from chronic inflammation, the risk factors for cardiovascular disease increase during menopause, according to the American Heart Association. 

High blood pressure is on top of the list, and this is where a hibiscus tea may help. A recent study found that hibiscus tea has the ability to regulate blood pressure, especially among diabetic patients. However, this claim requires further research. 

It May Act As An Antidepressant 

What would you feel whenever you drink teas like hibiscus? You are more likely to feel relaxed, thanks to its high flavonoid content. 

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), flavonoid has been found to have antidepressant activity. 

Flavonoid is also found naturally in vegetables and fruits, including broccoli, kale, grapes, scallions, peaches, lettuce, berries, tomatoes, and more. 

It is still advisable to take antidepressants upon your doctor’s prescription when the need arises for your optimal mental health. 

It May Support Weight Loss

Drastic weight gain is another symptom of menopause because of hormonal changes in the body, and as a woman, you want to be in good shape even in your 40’s, 50’s and beyond. 

Drinking hibiscus tea may help with weight loss. According to a study, taking hibiscus extract for three months reduces BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, levels of fat in the blood, and body weight. 

But again, you should have a healthy diet and a regular workout routine for a faster and safer result. You can hire a fitness instructor and a nutritionist to make the process less overwhelming. 

How to Make Hibiscus Tea for Menopause? 

Now, how to make a hot cup of hibiscus tea for menopause? Below are some beginner-friendly steps you can follow: 

Dry Hibiscus Flowers

Pick fresh hibiscus flowers in your yard and put the buds on a clean tray. Then, leave it outside in a spot that the sun reaches. After three or five days, the flowers are completely dry. 

Boil Water 

Make sure you add extra water for your parents, siblings, and close friends. Nothing is more fulfilling than drinking a warm cup of hibiscus tea with your family. It is indeed fun. 

Add Hot Water into Your Teapot Filled with Dried Hibiscus

Do not forget to cover the teapot, and it will be ready to serve after a few minutes. You can strain the tea for a more convenient drinking experience. You can also add honey to satisfy all your cravings. 

If you have a busy schedule in the office and do not have enough time to dry fresh hibiscus, you can buy ready-made hibiscus teabags in some grocery stores near you.