Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Hibiscus Lemonade


It finally warmed up, so I decided to make a nice big batch to enjoy while I finished planting the herbs and vegis on Victoria Day. This one comes from my mom who always makes it better than I do, but I keep trying to perfect it, and I think I'm close.

Hibiscus Lemonade

1 c dried hibiscus flowers
1/2 - 1 c honey
3 lemons
2 liters water

In a large glass container add flowers and honey, boil water, pour into glass container and stir well, allow to cool, squeeze in the juice and pulp of lemons, strain and serve with a lemon wedge over ice.

Serve alone or with a nice bowl of gazpacho and fresh bread. YUM!

Tip: Also makes great popsicles!

Medicinal FAQS: Flower extract has been used in many folk remedies for liver disorders, high blood pressure and as aphrodisiac. Hibiscus relieves stomach problems, sweetens breath and soothes nerves. An extract of the hibiscus flowers lower cholesterol content in blood serum and helps to prevent oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol). Daily uptake of Hibiscus tea is useful for reducing high blood pressure.