Hibiscus, Bay Leaf & Cinnamon Water
Ingredients
- 4 cups (1 liter) water
- 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers (flor de Jamaica)
- 1–2 dried bay leaves
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- Optional: lemon slices for flavor
- Optional: a small amount of sweetener
Method
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the hibiscus, bay leaves, and cinnamon.
- Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let it steep for another 10 minutes.
- Strain into a pitcher.
- Serve warm or refrigerate and serve chilled.
What It May Do
Hibiscus tea has been studied for possible modest effects on blood pressure, while cinnamon has been studied for blood-glucose effects, but evidence is mixed and these ingredients shouldn’t be considered a treatment for diabetes or obesity.
If you’re taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide) or medication for blood pressure or blood sugar, don’t use this drink as a substitute for prescribed treatment. Also avoid consuming large quantities of concentrated cinnamon or herbal preparations.