Hawthorn Hibiscus Tea

Our Hawthorn Hibiscus Tea is more than just a beautiful crimson infusion—it’s a carefully balanced blend of herbs traditionally used to support cardiovascular health, circulation, and digestion. With its vibrant color, tart citrusy tang, and cooling energetic properties, it’s become a staple in our summer wellness routines—and one of our favorite kombucha flavors in the office.

Therapeutic Benefits of the Herbs

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

Hawthorn berries and leaves have long been revered in both Western and Eastern herbal traditions for their cardiotonic properties. Rich in flavonoids, procyanidins, and other antioxidants, hawthorn is often used to support healthy blood pressure, strengthen heart function, and improve circulation. It’s considered a gentle yet profound herb for tonifying the cardiovascular system over time, making it a favorite among herbalists for people managing mild hypertension, palpitations, or age-related heart concerns.

Beyond its physical effects, hawthorn is also considered emotionally supportive. In Chinese medicine, the heart houses the shen—our spirit and consciousness. Hawthorn has been used traditionally to help ease emotional grief and regulate a “stuck” heart Qi. It is mildly warming and harmonizing, balancing both emotional and circulatory flow.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Hibiscus adds both vibrant color and a tangy-sour flavor to the tea, but its benefits go far beyond the aesthetic. Traditionally consumed around the world as a cooling, antioxidant-rich drink, hibiscus is particularly well-known for its ability to help lower blood pressure and support vascular elasticity. Multiple studies have highlighted its effect on systolic and diastolic pressure, making it an excellent complement to hawthorn in a formula focused on heart and vessel health.

From a Chinese medicine perspective, hibiscus helps to clear heat, move stagnant blood, and gently relieve fluid retention. In the summer, when excess heat and humidity can lead to swelling, irritability, and sluggishness, hibiscus offers relief with its tart, dispersing nature. It’s also rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, making it a fantastic ally for skin, capillary health, and immune support.

Citrus Peel and Lemongrass (or other citrus notes, if included)

We often add a splash of citrus peel or lemongrass to round out the flavor profile. These bright, aromatic herbs not only enhance the tea’s vibrant taste but offer digestive and circulatory support as well. In Chinese herbalism, citrus peel (Chen Pi) regulates Qi and transforms dampness—two common imbalances in hot, humid weather. Lemongrass adds a touch of sweetness and calm, gently uplifting the spirit while aiding in digestion and detoxification.

How We Use It

In our office, Hawthorn Hibiscus Tea has become the base for one of our favorite home-brewed kombucha flavors. Its tart, fruit-forward profile pairs beautifully with the light acidity of fermented tea. When served over ice, it’s both refreshing and therapeutic—a summer staple we keep in heavy rotation.

You don’t have to brew kombucha to enjoy it, though. This tea shines as an iced herbal infusion. Simply steep the tea for 10–15 minutes (or longer for a stronger flavor), then chill and serve over ice with a slice of lemon or orange. The bold color makes it a gorgeous offering for summer gatherings, and its thirst-quenching acidity makes it especially satisfying after a workout or on a hot afternoon.

A Versatile, Year-Round Favorite

While we especially love this tea in the warmer months, its benefits make it useful all year. It’s supportive for people working on heart health, digestion, and emotional balance. It’s caffeine-free, making it a great option for those looking to cut back on stimulants without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.

Whether you’re drinking it hot in the winter for circulatory warmth or pouring it over ice for a cooling, tangy pick-me-up, our Hawthorn Hibiscus Tea is a delicious, functional brew that brings together the best of traditional herbal wisdom and modern-day enjoyment.