Hibiscus belongs to a group of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. This extensive genus contains several hundred species found in warm temperate, subtropical, and tropical areas around the globe. Known for their striking, colorful blooms, these plants are commonly referred to as “hibiscus” or, less frequently, “rose mallow.” The genus includes a mix of annual and perennial herbs, along with woody shrubs and small trees. It is commonly used in teas, cooking, and traditional remedies, the flowers especially the calyx are a key ingredient in a well known drink. This beverage is popularly called Zobo in Nigeria and Karkadé in Egypt. This article focuses on Zobo drink in Nigeria and its health benefits.
Zobo is a well-loved traditional Nigerian beverage made from the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant. It stands out with its deep red color and distinct tart, slightly fruity flavor, which can be sweetened or enhanced with spices like ginger, cloves, or pineapple, depending on regional and personal preferences. Widely consumed across the country, Zobo is not only enjoyed for its taste but also for its affordability and easy accessibility in Nigerian markets. The ingredients are inexpensive and the preparation is straightforward, making it a common homemade drink for both everyday consumption and special occasions. Beyond its refreshing taste, Zobo is packed with numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits you can enjoy from drinking Zobo:
Aids in boosting appetite
Zobo is a nutrient-rich beverage that provides several essential vitamins and minerals vital for maintaining good health. Among its key nutrients are calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth; iron, which is crucial for the production of healthy red blood cells and preventing fatigue; and carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that aids in maintaining good vision, skin health, and immune function. These nutrients work together to help stimulate and restore appetite, making Zobo particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from illness, experiencing poor appetite, or needing a nutritional boost. The natural combination of these compounds helps activate digestive enzymes and improve overall digestion, which can lead to an increased desire to eat. Because of this, Zobo is often used not only as a refreshing drink but also as a natural, health-supportive remedy in traditional dietary practices.
Packed with antioxidant
Antioxidants are compounds that play a crucial role in protecting your body from harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells, contributing to aging and the development of various diseases. Zobo, made from the dried petals of the hibiscus plant, is naturally rich in these powerful antioxidants. By regularly consuming Zobo, you may help your body neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage. This protective effect can lower the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses linked to oxidative damage. In addition to its refreshing taste, Zobo offers valuable health benefits by supporting your body’s defense system at the cellular level. One study in people with Marfan syndrome, a disorder that affects connective tissue, found that an infusion of Zobo extract reduced oxidative stress and increased antioxidant levels in the blood.
Helps to improve eyesight
Zobo contains carotene, a powerful antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A, a nutrient essential for maintaining healthy eyesight. Vitamin A plays a critical role in protecting the surface of the eye (the cornea), supporting proper vision in low-light conditions, and preventing eye-related disorders. By drinking Zobo regularly, you can naturally boost your vitamin A levels, which may help sharpen your vision, reduce eye strain, and guard against vision problems like night blindness. Over time, consistent intake can contribute to long-term eye health and help preserve your ability to see clearly as you age.
Helps to lower cholesterol levels
Some research shows that drinking Zobo might help improve blood fat levels, which is important because those fats can increase the risk of heart disease. In a small 2009 study, 60 people with diabetes drank either Zobo or black tea. After one month, the group drinking Zobo had higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Another older study on people with metabolic syndrome found that taking 100 milligrams of Zobo extract daily helped lower total cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. A 2022 review also found that Zobo tea was better at reducing LDL cholesterol than other teas or a placebo.
Helps to reduce blood sugar
A 2020 review highlighted that drinking Zobo significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels which refers to the level of sugar in the blood after a person hasn’t eaten for at least 8 hours, typically overnight. This measurement is commonly used by healthcare professionals to assess a person’s risk of developing diabetes or to monitor blood sugar control in those already diagnosed with the condition. High fasting glucose levels can be an early warning sign of insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, so the ability of Zobo to help lower these levels suggests it may play a helpful role in blood sugar management.
Additionally, another review provided further support for Zobo’s potential benefits in diabetes care. It found evidence that Hibiscus sabdariffa, the plant used to make Zobo, possesses anti-diabetic properties. These effects may be due to its rich content of antioxidants, such as polyphenols and anthocyanins, which are believed to help regulate glucose metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce oxidative stress, all of which are important factors in controlling blood sugar levels. This growing body of research suggests that Zobo may be a supportive, natural option for people looking to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes alongside medical treatment and lifestyle changes.
Helps to lower blood pressure
One of the most notable and widely recognized health benefits of Zobo is its potential to help lower blood pressure. Persistently high blood pressure can put extra strain on the heart, weakening it over time and increasing the risk of serious conditions like heart disease.Multiple studies have shown that drinking Zobo may help reduce both systolic blood pressure (the top number) and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number), which are key indicators of heart health.In one small study involving 46 individuals with high blood pressure, participants were given either Zobo or a placebo to drink daily. After one month, those who drank Zobo experienced a more significant drop in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to those in the placebo group. This suggests that Zobo could be a natural and effective option for supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
Helps to boost liver health
The liver performs many vital roles including producing proteins, releasing bile, and breaking down fats all of which are crucial for maintaining overall health. Interestingly, research suggests that zobo may support liver health and help it function more effectively. In a small 2014 study involving 19 people with excess weight, taking zobo extract for 12 weeks was linked to improvements in liver steatosis, a condition marked by fat buildup in the liver that can eventually lead to liver failure. Similarly, a study in hamsters found that zobo extract may help protect the liver, as it reduced markers of liver damage during treatment.
Helps to promote weight loss
Several studies indicate that Zobo drinks may be linked to weight loss and could aid in preventing obesity. In a small study conducted in 2014, 36 overweight participants were given either Zobo extract or a placebo. After 12 weeks, those who consumed the Zobo extract showed reductions in body weight, body fat, body mass index (BMI), and waist-to-hip ratio by 15%.
Similarly, an animal study found that Zobo extract may help lower body weight and curb appetite by inhibiting the buildup of fat cells.
Contains compounds that can help prevent cancer
Zobo is rich in polyphenols, natural compounds known for their strong anticancer properties. Test-tube studies have shown promising results on the potential impact of Zobo extract in fighting cancer cells. In one test-tube study, Zobo extract was found to slow down cell growth and reduce the spread of mouth and plasma cell cancers.
Another study showed that Zobo leaf extract helped prevent the spread of human prostate cancer cells.
Additionally, Zobo extract and its compounds have been shown to inhibit the growth of several other cancer cell types in lab studies, including breast, stomach, and skin cancers.
Helps to decrease the growth of bacteria
Bacteria are single celled microorganisms responsible for various infections, including bronchitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
Some test-tube studies suggest that, beyond its antioxidant and anticancer effects, Zobo may also offer protection against bacterial infections.
In fact, one laboratory study found that Zobo extract inhibited the activity of E. coli, a strain of bacteria known to cause symptoms like cramping, gas, and diarrhea. Another test-tube study found that the extract was effective against eight different bacterial strains and worked as well as certain antibiotics commonly used to treat bacterial infections.
How to Prepare healthy Nigerian Zobo Drink
Begin by using dried hibiscus petals (zobo), along with pineapple peels, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. Simmer everything in water for 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, strain the liquid and allow it to cool. For added sweetness and flavor, mix in fresh juices such as pineapple, orange, or lemon.
Conclusion
Zobo drink is a tangy and slightly sweet beverage that may help people with high blood sugar, elevated blood pressure, or increased levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
It might also aid in weight loss for those aiming to maintain a healthy weight. In addition, some cultures use Zobo drink to ease symptoms related to hormonal changes in women, such as PMS and menopause.
