Hibiscus
Hibiscus sabdariffa
B Limited clinical evidenceA sour, red tea. Meta-analyses of small clinical trials found it slightly lowered blood pressure in mildly high blood pressure.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Hibiscus tea is made from the dried red calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa and contains anthocyanins and organic acids. Meta-analyses of small trials suggest drinking it regularly may lower systolic blood pressure by a few points in mild hypertension. It does not replace blood pressure medicine.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Supported by small-scale human clinical studies, though sample size and study quality are limited.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Small clinical studies suggest regular use may help slightly lower blood pressure in mild hypertension. [1]
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Effects on cholesterol and blood sugar are inconsistent and limited. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Infuse 1.5–2 g (1 dessertspoon) of dried calyces in 200 ml of boiling water for 10 minutes; can also be drunk cold.
Amount: 2–3 cups daily
Duration limit: 6 weeks (in studies)
[1]Safety & interactions
- Blood pressure may drop too far in people on blood pressure medicines; monitor it.
- Not recommended in pregnancy: adverse effects were reported in animal studies.
- Its acidity may affect tooth enamel; rinse with water afterwards.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Blood pressure medicines | May further lower blood pressure. [2] | Moderate |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | May change its effect; ask a doctor before combining. [2] | Minor |
| Chloroquine (malaria drug) | May reduce its absorption. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Dizziness (low blood pressure)
- Stomach upset
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Known as "karkade" in Egypt, iced hibiscus tea has been a traditional drink there since pharaonic times. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does hibiscus tea lower blood pressure?
Small studies saw a slight fall; it does not replace blood pressure medicine.
Does hibiscus help weight loss?
There is no reliable evidence for this.
Can I drink hibiscus tea in pregnancy?
Not recommended; adverse effects were reported in animal studies.
Sources
- ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal ProductsESCOP · 2019
- Herbs at a Glance: Evidence-Based Fact Sheets on Botanical ProductsNIH NCCIH · 2024
Cite This Page
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/hibiscus/
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