Jamaica (hibiscus drink)

Jamaica (Hibiscus Drink) (Serves 4–6)

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Ayurvedic Benefits: Cooling for Pitta, light and cleansing for Kapha, suitable for Vata when lightly sweetened
Cost: Approximately $2–$4 total (Ithaca, NY)

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (jamaica)

• 6 cups water

• Sweetener to taste

  • Monk fruit, honey, or cane sugar

• Optional: extra water or ice for diluting

Instructions

1. Rinse the hibiscus

   • Quickly rinse dried hibiscus flowers under cool water to remove dust.

2. Simmer

   • Add hibiscus and water to a pot.

   • Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer 20–30 minutes until the liquid turns deep ruby red.

3. Strain

   • Remove from heat and strain out the flowers.

4. Sweeten

   • Add sweetener to taste while still warm. Stir until dissolved.

5. Cool or Serve Warm

   • Serve warm, or let cool and refrigerate.

   • Dilute with additional water if desired.

Portion Accuracy

• Yield: About 6–7 cups

• Serves 4–6 people

• Typical serving size: 1–1½ cups per person

Cost Breakdown (Ithaca, NY Prices)
Dried hibiscus (1 cup) $2.00–$3.50
Sweetener $0.25–$0.75

Total: $2–$4
Cost per serving: $0.40–$0.80

Ayurvedic Dosha Notes

Jamaica is cooling, cleansing, and lightly astringent, making it especially helpful in warmer weather or alongside heavier meals.

Vata

• Naturally drying and cooling
  Vata modifications:

• Use extra sweetener

• Serve slightly warm instead of cold

• Avoid drinking large amounts on an empty stomach

Pitta

• Very cooling and soothing

• Helps balance heat and inflammation
  No modifications needed.

Kapha

• Light, cleansing, and stimulating

• Supports digestion and reduces heaviness
  No modifications needed.

Serving Tips

• Serve alongside beans, rice, nopales, and tortillas to balance heavier foods.

• Garnish with a slice of lime if desired.

• Stores well refrigerated for 3–4 days.