--- title: "Hibiscus: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects | Herbadex" description: "A sour, red tea. Meta-analyses of small clinical trials found it slightly lowered blood pressure in mildly high blood pressure." language: en url: https://herbadex.com/en/herb/hibiscus/ source: Herbadex (https://herbadex.com) --- [Dried Herb & Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/form/dried-herb-tea/) # Hibiscus Hibiscus sabdariffa B Limited clinical evidence A sour, red tea. Meta-analyses of small clinical trials found it slightly lowered blood pressure in mildly high blood pressure. [Metabolism, Weight & Blood Sugar](https://herbadex.com/en/for/metabolism/) [Heart & Circulation](https://herbadex.com/en/for/heart-circulation/) Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim Pregnancy **⚠ Avoid** Breastfeeding **Caution** Children **Caution** Drug interactions **Interaction reported** ## 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. **Parts used:** flowers **Key constituents:** Anthocyanins (Delphinidin-3-sambubioside), Organic Acids (Hibiscus Acid) 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 Small clinical studies suggest regular use may help slightly lower blood pressure in mild hypertension. \[1\] - C Laboratory / animal evidence 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. \[1\] \[2\] ### 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 1. [ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products](https://escop.com/monographs/) ESCOP · 2019 2. [Herbs at a Glance: Evidence-Based Fact Sheets on Botanical Products](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/herbsataglance) NIH NCCIH · 2024 ### Cite This Page Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/hibiscus/ ## Related guides and comparisons - [How to Prepare Herbal Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/how-to-prepare-herbal-tea/) - [How to Use Essential Oils Safely](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/essential-oil-safety/) - [Herbal Products and Drug Interactions](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/herb-drug-interactions/) ## On this page At a glance What is it used for? How is it used? Safety & interactions Did you know? 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If you take medication, are pregnant, or have a health condition, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before use.