What happens to your blood pressure when you drink hibiscus tea every day

Hibiscus tea is a natural way to help manage blood pressure. Although it does not replace drugs, studies suggest that it can offer light advantages to certain people, especially when used in the context of a global healthy lifestyle.

What research says

Several studies have shown that regular consumption of hibiscus tea can help lower blood pressure, especially in people with prehypertension or hypertension (high blood pressure).

The average reduction in systolic blood pressure (the upper number) varies from around 5 to 7 mmHg, with larger effects observed in people who start with higher blood pressure levels.

Some studies have even shown that hibiscus tea can be as effective as certain prescription drugs such as captopril, an ECA inhibitor. However, it seems less effective than others, like Lisinopril. These comparisons must be taken with caution, because research varies in quality and consistency.

Many studies on hibiscus tea and blood pressure have limits, such as small sample sizes or different research methods, which makes it more difficult to know exactly how it works. Nor is there a lot of long -term research.

Thus, although hibiscus tea can offer advantages, it should not replace the medical treatment of people with high blood pressure.

Why the hibiscus could help lower blood pressure

Hibiscus tea can help lower blood pressure in several ways:

• Blocking a certain enzyme: This enzyme, called ace (angiotensin conversion enzyme), Normally, blood vessels are tightening, increasing blood pressure. It is believed that hibiscus tea helps block ACE activity, allowing blood vessels to relax, such as the functioning of ACE inhibitory drugs.
• Containing antioxidants: Hibiscus also has antioxidant properties, which can protect the mucous membrane from blood vessels and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Acting as a gentle diuretic: This means that it helps the body to eliminate excess salt and liquid, which can contribute to high blood pressure.

How many hibiscus tea do you need?

Studies have used different quantities of hibiscus tea, but most used 2 to 3 cups per day for at least four to eight weeks. Drinking this amount was linked to small but significant blood pressure reduction.

For most healthy adults, this amount is considered safe. It is unlikely that hibiscus tea consumption causes problems when consumed in moderation.

Safety considerations

Hibiscus naturally contains small quantities of certain minerals and trace elements, such as manganese and aluminum. It is generally not a concern when drinking only 2 to 3 cups per day, but drinking more than 4 cups a day over a long period could lead to excessive consumption, especially for pregnant people or who have chronic renal conditions.

Some studies have reported a slight increase in liver enzymes with hibiscus tea consumption. However, these changes were not linked to any serious liver problems.

People taking blood pressure drugs must be cautious, as hibiscus can increase the effects of these drugs and lower blood pressure.

It is a good idea to speak to your health care provider before adding large amounts of hibiscus tea to your daily routine.

Are there alternatives to hibiscus tea?

While hibiscus tea seems to have the strongest evidence among teas based on plants to lower blood pressure, green and black tea can also offer advantages.

When consumed regularly – generally for 12 weeks or more – these teas have been associated with small but significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

However, the effect sizes are generally modest and the advantages vary from person to person.