Hibiscus Tea for Blood Pressure: Why It Works

How it works: Anthocyanins which are the most prominent compounds in hibiscus tea are known for their blood pressure lowering effects.

What it is: Hibiscus tea is widely known for its invigorating tangy taste in many tropical and subtropical areas. Historically the plants’ leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable, while calyces and flowers are used to make jams, syrups, juice wine and tea for medicinal uses.

Word of caution: Alothough there are some proven hibiscus tea for blood pressure, benefits, there are side effects associeted with consuming the tea. In addition, there is ongoing research, so stay tuned for updated information.

Hibiscus Tea For Blood Pressure

Anthocyanins, the most dominant active compound in hibiscus tea are known for their pressure lowering effects. This makes hibiscus tea one of the best herbal remedies for high blood pressure. So let’s look deeper at the effects anthocyanins have on blood pressure:

1. Hibiscus Tea Vasodilation

Anthocyanins help widen blood vessels – a process which is called vasodilation. Vasodilation can be caused by foods you eat or drink, and medications you take. But vasodilation causes improved blood flow which leads to lower blood pressure.  

2. Antioxidant Properties

The antioxidants in hibiscus tea protect blood vessels from damage. This helps blood vessels maintain their flexibility and elasticity which decreases the risk of developing high blood pressure.

3. Diuretic Effects

Hibiscus tea acts as a natural diuretic meaning the tea can help the body eliminate excess salt and fluid from the body. This is one of the best hibiscus tea blood pressure lowering benefits

4. ACE Inhibition Behavior

ACE inhibitors are medicines that help relax the veins and arteries to lower blood pressure. Hibiscus tea behaves like ACE inhbitors making it beneficial for managing blood pressure.

5. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Reducing inflammation in the blood vessels can improve overall cardiovascular health, which indirectly benefits blood pressure levels. Regular consumption of hibiscus tea may help lower inflammation resulting in reduced blood pressure.

More Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

Now, let’s see what some studies¹ say about more benefits of hibiscus tea. We’ll aso look at different types of hibiscus teas as well as how to use the tea for blood pressure management.

• Studies suggest that hibiscus tea can improve liver health by increasing the production of detoxifying enzymes and reducing liver inflammation and damage.

• Some research indicates that hibiscus tea may help with weight management by reducing the absorption of starch and glucose, thus potentially lowering body weight and fat levels.

• Hibiscus tea has been shown to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels, which can contribute benefits of hibiscus tea for the heart.

• The antimicrobial properties of hibiscus tea may help fight off bacterial and viral infections, supporting the immune system.

• Hibiscus tea has been traditionally used to improve digestion, alleviate constipation, and prevent indigestion.

• Women have used hibiscus tea to help reduce menstrual pain and cramps due to its potential hormonal balancing effects.

• Preliminary studies suggest that the polyphenols in hibiscus² tea may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.

Traditional Uses

Hibiscus tea is also used as a natural remedy for indigestion, fevers, liver disease and high blood pressure, flu, cough and colds.

Types of Hibiscus Tea For Blood Pressure

Because there are many kinds of edible hibiscus, now you may want to know what kind of hibiscus tea lowers Blood Pressure. Well there are two species of hibicus used to make tea that have proven blood pressure lowering benefits. They are Hibiscus sabdariffa and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Here’s what you need to know about them.

1. Hibiscus sabdariffa

Hibiscus sabdariffa is commonly known as Roselle hibiscus or Jamaican sorrel in the western world. This is a cultivated hisbiscus species that is related to okra. The plant blooms large pink or light yellow flowers with the red center that is typical of hibiscus.

The outer-covering of the seed pod called calyx is the portion that is used to make hibiscus tea. The tea has a deep red color, similar to cranberry juice and a tangy taste that becomes quite sour if it is over-steeped.

2. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis which is also called Chinese hibiscus is a less known species used to make hibiscus tea. In this case its the flower petals that are used to make hibiscus tea. The tea has a similar tangy taste but if over-steeped the will taste bitter.

Benefits of both Roselle hibiscus and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis are similar because of their rich antioxidant properties. And both hibiscus teas possess blood pressure lowering benefits.

Hibiscus Tea Recipe

So now that you know the potential benefits of hibiscus tea, you may want to give the it a try. Here’s how to make hibiscus tea for blood pressure management.

• Boil 2 cups of water
• Add 2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus
• Cover and steep for between 5 and 7 minutes
• Strain, sweeten to taste and enjoy either warm or over ice.

Bonus Tips: There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing hibiscus tea.

• Hibiscus tea has high levels of tannins so the longer you steep the tea, the more bitter it will taste.

• Hibiscus tea is high in vitamin C and heat destroys vitamin C. Because you what to get the full benefits of vitamin C, you want to limit the temperature.

Hibiscus Tea Side Effects

Hibiscus tea is generally safe for most people, but some may experience side effect slike stomach upset or allergic reactions.

How to Use Hibiscus Tea For Blood Pressure

It is recommended that individuals using hibiscus tea for blood pressure management, drink 1 to 2 cups of hibiscus tea daily to get the full benefits. Keep in mind that being consistent is key to good results.

Who Should Avoid Hibiscus Tea?

Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, individuals with low blood pressure, or those on certain medications (like diuretics or antihypertensives) should avoid hibiscus tea.

Conclusion

Incorporating hibiscus tea into your daily routine is not only a soothing ritual but also a natural way to support healthy blood pressure. Backed by science, this aromatic tea offers a range of benefits, making it a simple yet powerful addition to your wellness journey.

As with any natural remedy, enjoy hibiscus tea in moderation and consult your healthcare provider to ensure it’s the right choice for you. Embrace this vibrant brew and take a step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

References

1. Hopkins, Allison L et al. “Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in the treatment of hypertension and hyperlipidemia: a comprehensive review of animal and human studies.” Fitoterapia vol. 85 (2013): 84-94. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2013.01.003 ↩︎
2. Malacrida, Alessio et al. “Evaluation of antitumoral effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract on human breast cancer cells.” Biochemistry and biophysics reports vol. 32 101353. 27 Sep. 2022, doi:10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101353 ↩︎