Health wonders of Zobo drink
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The Hibiscus drink popularly known as Zobo is a super drink which is
slightly thick, colourful, pleasant and tasty. The Hibiscus leaf is used in
many parts of the world to make both cold and hot drinks. It contains a high
concentration of water-soluble antioxidants and is filled with huge amount of
Vitamin C. Zobo is served cold in Nigeria and Senegal while it is served warm
in Egypt. Here are some of its health wonders: Reduction in blood
pressure: Hibiscus is an anti-oxidant. It has properties that prevents the
oxidation of low-density lipoproteins; a substance in our blood that if
increased beyond normal quantities may cause high blood pressure. Aids weight
loss: The body produces an enzyme known as Amylase which functions to break
down complex sugar and starch molecules in food. When a person consumes too
much carbohydrate rich food (full of sugar and starch) that individual is most
likely going to gain weight. Hibiscus contains a substance that can inhibit the
production of amylase. A person regularly drinking hibiscus tea can thus
prevent too much absorption of carbohydrates and consequently not gain excess
weight. Treats cough and cold: Fresh hibiscus flower contains around 6.7 mg of
ascorbic acid, a form of Vitamin c which is one of the more essential nutrients
needed by the body. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and mild
anti-bacterial properties. Hibiscus tea is often used as a supplement to help
treat coughs and colds, because of its cooling effect, it is especially
effective in reducing the discomfort of fevers that may accompany such
ailments. Satiate thirst: Hibiscus tea can be drunk hot or cold. As iced tea,
the infusion is known to satiate thirst quite effectively to avoid further temptation
of intake of carbonated or other types of drink. It is often recommended as an
alternative to artificially made commercial “sports drink” that are marketed to
physically active individuals. It can serve as food supplement because of the
other contents like calcium, iron, phosphorous, protein, fiber, carotene,
thiamine, niacine, riboflavin and also boosts the immune system.
Here’s a quick tip on how to prepare Zobo drink at your convenience:
INGREDIENTS 1 cup of dried Hibiscus sepal (Zobo leaves) depending on the number
of people being prepared for. 4 cups of boiling water Juice of one lemon Ginger
(optional) Sugar in small quantity Direction . Briskly wash the leaves to
ensure the dust and sand are washed off. . Set the leaves in a large
bowl, dice some ginger into tiny pieces or grate and pour it in the bowl as
well, cover with boiled water. Set aside for 2-4 hours to allow the drink to
steep. . Pour the drink through a sieve to separate the fluid from the
leaves. . Add some ice, lemon juice and sugar to taste. Combine and
enjoy. Note: The drink can be served cold or hot. Also the amount of water used
is based on preference. Also, experiment with food flavours like pineapple,
vanilla and berries for some diversity. Also note that the drink stains easily,
so be mindful when handling it
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HMM