Yes. Hibiscus tea is naturally caffeine-free. It is made from the dried flowers of the hibiscus plant, not from tea leaves, so it contains no caffeine at any time of day.
What hibiscus tea is
Hibiscus tea is an herbal infusion made from the dried calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa. It goes by many names around the world, including agua de jamaica in Mexico, bissap in West Africa and sorrel in the Caribbean. Because it contains no leaves from the tea plant, it is technically a tisane.
What it tastes like
Hibiscus brews into a deep ruby cup with a bright, tart taste. Most people compare it to cranberry or pomegranate. It is refreshing on its own, and the tartness softens with a little honey or a slice of orange.
How to brew hibiscus tea hot
- Bring fresh water to a full boil. Hibiscus is not delicate, so boiling water is fine.
- Use one pyramid bag per 8 oz cup.
- Steep for 5 to 7 minutes. The color deepens quickly, the flavor takes a little longer.
- Taste it plain first, then sweeten if you want to.
Two ways to make iced hibiscus tea
Fast method. Steep two bags in 8 oz of boiling water for 7 minutes, then pour over a tall glass of ice.
Cold brew. Put 4 bags in 4 cups of cold water and leave the pitcher in the fridge for 8 to 12 hours. Cold brewing gives a smoother, less sharp cup.
What to add
- Fresh mint and a squeeze of lime
- A cinnamon stick and a slice of orange, served hot
- Sparkling water, half and half, for a caffeine-free spritz
- Fresh ginger for a little heat
When to drink it
Because it has no caffeine, hibiscus works in the evening as well as during the day. It is also an easy swap when you want something with more character than plain water. If you are pregnant or take medication, check with your doctor before adding any herbal tea to your routine.
Keep a pouch by the kettle
PiPi Tea Organic Hibiscus is made from organically grown hibiscus flowers with no artificial flavoring. Each pouch holds 30 servings in pyramid bags.
Continue reading: More about hibiscus tea.