Zobo drink is made from dried red sepals of the Hibiscus Sabdariffa plant and is one of the most consumed beverages all over the world.
The Hibiscus Sabdariffa is also known as roselle is a species of flowering plant in the genus Hibiscus, native to Africa and most likely West Africa.
It is important to note that not all hibiscus plants are roselle but all roselle are hibiscus plants and the leaves, stem, and flowers of roselle plants are rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium and Iron.
The ruby red hibiscus flower drink is known as Karkade in Egypt and Zoborodo in Hausa
Other names for Hibiscus Sabdariffa are Florida cranberry, red sorrel, Jamaican sorrel, and Rosella.
Zobo is referred to as the powerhouse of vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B1(thiamin), VitaminB2(Riboflavin), VitaminB9 (folic acid) and Vitamin C
Speaking on the nutritive and health benefits of roselle, Nutrition and Public Health Expert, Mrs Yetunde Adeseluka- Oladejo said the drink is high in anti-oxidants needed in the growth and repair of all body tissues and abundant in calcium, iron, phosphorus, niacin, fibre, fat and a whole lot of other amazing nutrients.
“Aside from its high Vitamin content zobo drink can be very useful in the management of diabetes as it’s been found to trigger a low to moderate blood sugar and should be a preferred choice for diabetic patients. It is also helpful in the fight against anaemia as it increases the packed cell volume of the body while helping good functioning of the liver and the kidney”
Mrs Adeseluka-Oladejo however cautioned against excessive intake of Zobo as overuse may be detrimental to the body which could result in side effects such as stomach ache, nausea, painful urination, headache, and dizziness due to its effect on the blood pressure.
She also advised nursing mothers and pregnant women to keep away from this drink throughout the period of lactation and pregnancy to prevent harm to their children.
So, call it Zobo, Roselle or Rosella if you like. You can also tap into the goodies and richness embedded in this wonderful drink.
Anthonia Akanji
pub-5160901092443552
One Comment