Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageToxicityInteractionsHow to StoreSimilar SupplementsSources & What to Look ForFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Toxicity
Interactions
How to Store
Similar Supplements
Sources & What to Look For
Frequently Asked Questions
Hibiscus is thought to possess various bioactive substances, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, that may benefit human health.These compounds may offer potential benefits in treating metabolic conditions, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Hibiscus sabdariffais one of 200 hibiscus species in the Malvaceae plant family and is the one most commonly used in medicine.However, despite the active compounds found in hibiscus, the scientific evidence supporting the use of hibiscus for health is weak overall.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist
Uses of Hibiscus
Scientific evidence from human, animal, and lab studies point to numerous potential health benefits of hibiscus. Hibiscus extracts have shown various effects, including:
These and other possible benefits of hibiscus have been attributed to bioactive compounds, such as organic acids,anthocyanins, and phenolic acids.However, many of the studies on the uses of hibiscus have limitations and are not well-designed. Stronger research is needed to reach conclusions on hisbiscus’s benefits.
The research behind some of the more popular uses of hibiscus is outlined below.
Hypertension
Advocates of hibiscus believe that it is a gentler, more natural remedy forhypertension(high blood pressure) than prescription medications because it causes fewer side effects.
In one study, adults with diagnosed stage 1 hypertension were divided into two groups. While both groups received nutrition advice for controlling their hypertension, just one group also received two standard cups of hibiscus tea per day for one month.
By the end of the study, both groups had decreased blood pressure, but those who drank hibiscus tea had more significant improvements in blood pressure parameters. However, it was a small study, with only 46 individuals who participated.
A systematic review (an extensive study on medical literature focused on a single topic) seemingly confirmed these results. Researchers found that both human and animal trials have shown that hibiscus has a positive effect on bothsystolic(the top or first number) and diastolic (the bottom or second number) blood pressure readings. The review also noted that hibiscus seemed to have the greatest effects on people with higher baseline blood pressure (the first reading taken).
Diuretic Properties
Diureticsare often referred to as water pills because they cause the kidneys to increase urine production to get rid of extra fluid in the body.
Few studies exist that look at hibiscus solely for its potentialdiureticproperties. Instead, hibiscus has shown diuretic effects in studies focusing on other health conditions.
According to one study of people with hypertension, hibiscus was more effective at increasing urine output and reducing excess fluid thanZestril (lisinopril), an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to manage blood pressure. These effects led to improved kidney function in those participants who used hibiscus.
Additional research on hibiscus as a diuretic is minimal. More research is needed before hibiscus can be recommended as a diuretic alternative.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is a common side effect ofdiabetes mellitus. Hibiscus may be able to help.
In one study, one group of women aged 30 to 60 with prediabetes took ready-to-brew rosella powder (5 grams) plus 125 milligrams of the natural sweetener stevia for two weeks. By the end of the study, there was a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose in the group that took the powder compared with the control (untreated) group. However, no significant difference in two-hour postprandial blood glucose results was observed between the two groups.
Since much of the research in this area has been performed in labs or on animals, more human trials are needed to affirm the potential role of hibiscus in hyperglycemia in humans.
Dyslipidemia
According to a systematic review, hibiscus may moderate blood lipids and improve dyslipidemia. In human trials, hibiscus successfully reduced total cholesterol,triglycerides, andLDL cholesterol.
Hibiscus has also shown potential in adolescents with altered blood lipids.
Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Hibiscus has been touted for its potential liver-protective effects. Some researchers have studied hibiscus to see if it could improve symptoms ofmetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD), a disease in which fat accumulates in the liver.
A small human trial assessed the potential role of hibiscus in MASLD. Study participants with MASLD were split into two groups, with one group receiving 450 milligrams of hibiscus in capsule form and the other group receiving a placebo (a substance having no therapeutic effect). At the end of the eight-week trial, those who received hibiscus had significant improvements in liver enzymes and liver fat accumulation.
Larger human trials should be conducted to confirm these findings, though.
Penpak Ngamsathain / Getty Images
What Are the Side Effects of Hibiscus?
Hibiscus is generally thought to be safe when consumed in standard amounts. But using an herbal supplement like hibiscus carries a potential risk of side effects.
Common Side Effects of Hibiscus
A review of clinical trials on hibiscus reported no significant side effects with hibiscus use in any of the included studies.
However, another review pointed out that much of the data we have on hibiscus is from animal studies. This makes it difficult to understand the full potential of side effects in humans.
Although rare, the side effects most often associated with hibiscus are:
Stop using hibiscus and consult a healthcare provider if you experience side effects.
Severe Side Effects of Hibiscus
Although not severe in all cases, some people may be allergic to hibiscus or other members of the Malvaceae family of plants, which includes the marshmallow plant.Avoid hibiscus if you’re aware of an existing allergy to plants in the Malvaceae family.
If you experience an allergic reaction when using hibiscus, stop using it immediately and speak to a healthcare provider.
The following groups should avoid using hibiscus:
Due to an overall lack of scientific data on hibiscus, it is unknown if other groups should avoid hibiscus. Talk with a healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or are unsure if hibiscus is safe for you.
Dosage: How Much Hibiscus Should I Take?
Hibiscus tea has been used safely for up to six weeks at a dose of 24 ounces per day.It is unknown if using hibiscus tea for longer periods of time or at higher doses is safe.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s):Anthocyanins, organic acids, phenolic acids,flavonoids, polysaccharidesAlternate name(s):Roselle, jamaica, karkadeh, red sorrel,Hibiscus sabdariffaLegal status: Legal and available over the counter in the United StatesSuggested dose:None suggested, though it’s thought to be safe in doses of 720 milliliters (24 ounces) per day for up to six weeksSafety considerations: May cause side effects that may includeupset stomach, gas, and constipationAlways speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s):Anthocyanins, organic acids, phenolic acids,flavonoids, polysaccharidesAlternate name(s):Roselle, jamaica, karkadeh, red sorrel,Hibiscus sabdariffaLegal status: Legal and available over the counter in the United StatesSuggested dose:None suggested, though it’s thought to be safe in doses of 720 milliliters (24 ounces) per day for up to six weeksSafety considerations: May cause side effects that may includeupset stomach, gas, and constipationAlways speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
Active ingredient(s):Anthocyanins, organic acids, phenolic acids,flavonoids, polysaccharides
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
For hypertension, hibiscus has been used in doses ranging from 100 milligrams to 10,000 milligrams (10 grams) per day.
As a rule of thumb, always follow the dosage recommendations on the product label. Or, talk with a healthcare provider about the right hibiscus dosage for you.
How to Prepare Hibiscus Tea
You can use prepared tea bags or dried flowers to make hibiscus tea.
To make hot tea:
To make cold tea, you can steep the tea bags or hibiscus flowers in a water pitcher in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I Take Too Much Hibiscus?
Little is known about the long-term use or safe dosage of hibiscus.
Fortunately, few studies on hibiscus have reported adverse events or toxicity associated with using the plant medicinally. In fact, according to the FDA, hibiscus is generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
One animal study looked at the potential of both acute and chronic toxicity of hibiscus. In the study, an acute dose of 5,000 milligrams/kilogram of hibiscus was not found to be toxic in rats. Researchers also found that using hibiscus extract at 50, 100, and 200 milligrams/kilogram body weight for 270 days did not show signs of toxicity.
These results have not yet been repeated in human trials.
Regardless, it’s always best to use herbs and supplements only as directed. Using more hibiscus than recommended may increase your risk of side effects.
Like many other herbal supplements, hibiscus may interact with various medications. It may also interact with other supplements or foods.
Hibiscus may interact with:
There is also some concern that hibiscus may interact with a diuretic calledhydrochlorothiazideas well asACE inhibitors.
These interactions have not been well-established, but you should talk with a healthcare provider before using hibiscus if you take these or other medications. Other interactions may be possible.
Before choosing a new herb or supplement, it’s best to carefully read the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. Please review supplement labels with a healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
How to Store Hibiscus
To prolong shelf life, store your hibiscus in a cool, dry place and keep it out of direct sunlight. This is thew same for hibiscus tea, dried hibiscus flowers, and hibiscus supplements (like capsules and powders).
Be sure to follow any additional storage directions listed on the product packaging. Take precautions and store hibiscus out of reach of small children and pets.
Discard hibiscus as indicated on the product packaging or once it passes its expiration date.
Certain supplements and herbs may offer similar health benefits as hibiscus.
It’s typically recommended to use only one supplement or herb for a health condition at a time, so talk with a healthcare provider about which may be best for you.
Supplements and herbs that are similar to hibiscus include:
Sources of Hibiscus and What to Look For
Hibiscus tea is not the only option for use. Hibiscus can be found in a number of supplement forms and even in some prepared foods.
Food Sources of Hibiscus
You can purchase hibiscus food products or make your own at home.
Dried hibiscus flowers are used to make tea and other hot and cold drinks. It is also sometimes added to wines, jams, jellies, ice cream, chocolate, and cakes.
In Mexican cuisine, hibiscus is used to make a beverage called Jamaica water. In other cultures, the leaves and seeds of hibiscus may be cooked, roasted, or used to make oils or coffee.
Hibiscus Supplements
Besides tea, hibiscus can be used in other supplement forms. These include powders, capsules, liquid extracts, tablets, and bottled beverages.
Sometimes, hibiscus is paired with other herbs or nutrients to make supplements. Some brands may also add various flavors to hibiscus or hibiscus combination supplements.
Hibiscus supplements are usually naturally vegan andgluten-free, but some brands may use gelatin to make capsules. Gelatin comes from animals and is not vegan. Some hibiscus products are alsoorganic.
Summary
Hibiscus is a genus that contains more than 200 species of flowering plants.Hibiscus sabdariffais the species most commonly used for its potential health benefits. It is thought to possess various bioactive substances, includinganthocyanins,flavonoids, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to its health benefits.
Hibiscus can be found in a number of supplement forms, as tea, and even in some prepared foods. Although it may be useful for conditions such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and MASLD, more research is needed.
If you’re considering using hibiscus and have questions to be answered, talk with a healthcare provider.
It may be safe to drink hibiscus tea every day, but there isn’t solid scientific evidence to back this up.It is known that drinking 24 ounces of hibiscus tea a day for up to six weeks is safe.Currently, there aren’t studies on hibiscus tea consumption that extend beyond six weeks.Learn MoreDoes Tea Lower Blood Pressure?
It may be safe to drink hibiscus tea every day, but there isn’t solid scientific evidence to back this up.It is known that drinking 24 ounces of hibiscus tea a day for up to six weeks is safe.Currently, there aren’t studies on hibiscus tea consumption that extend beyond six weeks.
It may be safe to drink hibiscus tea every day, but there isn’t solid scientific evidence to back this up.
It is known that drinking 24 ounces of hibiscus tea a day for up to six weeks is safe.Currently, there aren’t studies on hibiscus tea consumption that extend beyond six weeks.
Learn MoreDoes Tea Lower Blood Pressure?
Although rare, common side effects of hibiscus are upset stomach, gas, and constipation.
In general, side effects should subside after you’ve stopped using hibiscus, but consult with a healthcare provider if side effects persist.
No supplement or herb can cause weight loss on its own. Weight loss should never be expected when using hibiscus or other supplements.Hibiscus advocates tout it as a natural remedy for weight loss. And while some research points to the potential for weight loss, very high doses of hibiscus would most likely be needed, which could increase the risk of side effects or toxicity.Learn MoreHow Obesity Is Treated
No supplement or herb can cause weight loss on its own. Weight loss should never be expected when using hibiscus or other supplements.Hibiscus advocates tout it as a natural remedy for weight loss. And while some research points to the potential for weight loss, very high doses of hibiscus would most likely be needed, which could increase the risk of side effects or toxicity.
No supplement or herb can cause weight loss on its own. Weight loss should never be expected when using hibiscus or other supplements.
Hibiscus advocates tout it as a natural remedy for weight loss. And while some research points to the potential for weight loss, very high doses of hibiscus would most likely be needed, which could increase the risk of side effects or toxicity.
Learn MoreHow Obesity Is Treated
Like other teas, hibiscus tea is fairly easy to make. All you will need is water and a prepared hibiscus tea bag or dried hibiscus flowers.To make hibiscus tea:Boil water on the stove top or in a tea kettle.Pour hot water into a teacup or mug.Add the tea bag or dried hibiscus flowers to the water, then steep for several minutes.Remove the tea bag or strain the flowers from the water and enjoy.
Like other teas, hibiscus tea is fairly easy to make. All you will need is water and a prepared hibiscus tea bag or dried hibiscus flowers.
To make hibiscus tea:
23 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210Ellis LR, Zulfiqar S, Holmes M, Marshall L, Dye L, Boesch C.A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers.Nutr Rev. 2022;80(6):1723-1737. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab104Jalalyazdi M, Ramezani J, Izadi-Moud A, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension.J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2019;10(3):107-111. doi:10.4103/japtr.JAPTR_402_18Montalvo-González E, Villagrán Z, González-Torres S, et al.Physiological effects and human health benefits ofHibiscus sabdariffa: a review of clinical trials.Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(4):464. doi:10.3390/ph15040464Da-Costa-Rocha I, Bonnlaender B, Sievers H, Pischel I, Heinrich M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L. - a phytochemical and pharmacological review.Food Chem. 2014;165:424-443. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.05.002National Cancer Institute.Diuretic.Nwachukwu DC, Aneke EI, Nwachukwu NZ, Azubike N, Obika LF.Does consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibscus sabdariffa affect renal function in subjects with mild to moderate hypertension?J Physiol Sci. 2017;67(1):227-234. doi:10.1007/s12576-016-0458-zJamrozik D, Borymska W, Kaczmarczyk-Żebrowska I.Hibiscus sabdariffain diabetes prevention and treatment-does it work? An evidence-based review.Foods. 2022;11(14):2134. doi:10.3390/foods11142134Mayasari NR, Susetyowati, Wahyuningsih MSH, Probosuseno.Antidiabetic effect of rosella-stevia tea on prediabetic women in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.J Am Coll Nutr. 2018;37(5):373-379. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1400927Mosca S, Araújo G, Costa V, et al.Dyslipidemia diagnosis and treatment: risk stratification in children and adolescents.J Nutr Metab. 2022;2022:4782344. doi:10.1155/2022/4782344Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa calices on dyslipidemia in obese adolescents: a triple-masked randomized controlled trial.Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-79. doi:10.5455/msm.2013.25.76-79Izadi F, Farrokhzad A, Tamizifar B, Tarrahi MJ, Entezari MH.Effect of sour tea supplementation on liver enzymes, lipid profile, blood pressure, and antioxidant status in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.Phytother Res. 2021;35(1):477-485. doi:10.1002/ptr.6826Izquierdo-Vega JA, Arteaga-Badillo DA, Sánchez-Gutiérrez M, et al.Organic acids from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffaL.)-a brief review of its pharmacological effects.Biomedicines. 2020;8(5):100. doi:10.3390/biomedicines8050100MedlinePlus.Hibiscus sabdariffa.Hibiscus. In:Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Enwerem N, Azuine M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L:safety and efficacy during pregnancy and lactation. Planta Med.2013;79-PS6. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1348820Sireeratawong S, Itharat A, Khonsung P, Lertprasertsuke N, Jaijoy K.Toxicity studies of the water extract from the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in rats.Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013;10(4):122-127. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v10i4.20Bonilla Ocampo DA, Paipilla AF, Marín E, Vargas-Molina S, Petro JL, Pérez-Idárraga A.Dietary nitrate from beetroot juice for hypertension: a systematic review.Biomolecules. 2018;8(4):134. doi:10.3390/biom8040134Raina R, Verma PK, Peshin R, Kour H.Potential ofJuniperus communisL as a nutraceutical in human and veterinary medicine.Heliyon. 2019;5(8):e02376. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02376Chen W, Balan P, Popovich DG.Review of ginseng anti-diabetic studies.Molecules. 2019;24(24):4501. doi:10.3390/molecules24244501Li P, Wang Q, Chen K, et al.Red yeast rice for hyperlipidemia: a meta-analysis of 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials.Front Pharmacol. 2022;12:819482. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.819482Koperska A, Wesołek A, Moszak M, Szulińska M.Berberine in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-a review.Nutrients. 2022;14(17):3459. doi:10.3390/nu14173459Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210
23 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210Ellis LR, Zulfiqar S, Holmes M, Marshall L, Dye L, Boesch C.A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers.Nutr Rev. 2022;80(6):1723-1737. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab104Jalalyazdi M, Ramezani J, Izadi-Moud A, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension.J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2019;10(3):107-111. doi:10.4103/japtr.JAPTR_402_18Montalvo-González E, Villagrán Z, González-Torres S, et al.Physiological effects and human health benefits ofHibiscus sabdariffa: a review of clinical trials.Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(4):464. doi:10.3390/ph15040464Da-Costa-Rocha I, Bonnlaender B, Sievers H, Pischel I, Heinrich M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L. - a phytochemical and pharmacological review.Food Chem. 2014;165:424-443. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.05.002National Cancer Institute.Diuretic.Nwachukwu DC, Aneke EI, Nwachukwu NZ, Azubike N, Obika LF.Does consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibscus sabdariffa affect renal function in subjects with mild to moderate hypertension?J Physiol Sci. 2017;67(1):227-234. doi:10.1007/s12576-016-0458-zJamrozik D, Borymska W, Kaczmarczyk-Żebrowska I.Hibiscus sabdariffain diabetes prevention and treatment-does it work? An evidence-based review.Foods. 2022;11(14):2134. doi:10.3390/foods11142134Mayasari NR, Susetyowati, Wahyuningsih MSH, Probosuseno.Antidiabetic effect of rosella-stevia tea on prediabetic women in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.J Am Coll Nutr. 2018;37(5):373-379. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1400927Mosca S, Araújo G, Costa V, et al.Dyslipidemia diagnosis and treatment: risk stratification in children and adolescents.J Nutr Metab. 2022;2022:4782344. doi:10.1155/2022/4782344Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa calices on dyslipidemia in obese adolescents: a triple-masked randomized controlled trial.Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-79. doi:10.5455/msm.2013.25.76-79Izadi F, Farrokhzad A, Tamizifar B, Tarrahi MJ, Entezari MH.Effect of sour tea supplementation on liver enzymes, lipid profile, blood pressure, and antioxidant status in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.Phytother Res. 2021;35(1):477-485. doi:10.1002/ptr.6826Izquierdo-Vega JA, Arteaga-Badillo DA, Sánchez-Gutiérrez M, et al.Organic acids from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffaL.)-a brief review of its pharmacological effects.Biomedicines. 2020;8(5):100. doi:10.3390/biomedicines8050100MedlinePlus.Hibiscus sabdariffa.Hibiscus. In:Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Enwerem N, Azuine M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L:safety and efficacy during pregnancy and lactation. Planta Med.2013;79-PS6. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1348820Sireeratawong S, Itharat A, Khonsung P, Lertprasertsuke N, Jaijoy K.Toxicity studies of the water extract from the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in rats.Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013;10(4):122-127. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v10i4.20Bonilla Ocampo DA, Paipilla AF, Marín E, Vargas-Molina S, Petro JL, Pérez-Idárraga A.Dietary nitrate from beetroot juice for hypertension: a systematic review.Biomolecules. 2018;8(4):134. doi:10.3390/biom8040134Raina R, Verma PK, Peshin R, Kour H.Potential ofJuniperus communisL as a nutraceutical in human and veterinary medicine.Heliyon. 2019;5(8):e02376. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02376Chen W, Balan P, Popovich DG.Review of ginseng anti-diabetic studies.Molecules. 2019;24(24):4501. doi:10.3390/molecules24244501Li P, Wang Q, Chen K, et al.Red yeast rice for hyperlipidemia: a meta-analysis of 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials.Front Pharmacol. 2022;12:819482. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.819482Koperska A, Wesołek A, Moszak M, Szulińska M.Berberine in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-a review.Nutrients. 2022;14(17):3459. doi:10.3390/nu14173459Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210Ellis LR, Zulfiqar S, Holmes M, Marshall L, Dye L, Boesch C.A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers.Nutr Rev. 2022;80(6):1723-1737. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab104Jalalyazdi M, Ramezani J, Izadi-Moud A, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension.J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2019;10(3):107-111. doi:10.4103/japtr.JAPTR_402_18Montalvo-González E, Villagrán Z, González-Torres S, et al.Physiological effects and human health benefits ofHibiscus sabdariffa: a review of clinical trials.Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(4):464. doi:10.3390/ph15040464Da-Costa-Rocha I, Bonnlaender B, Sievers H, Pischel I, Heinrich M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L. - a phytochemical and pharmacological review.Food Chem. 2014;165:424-443. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.05.002National Cancer Institute.Diuretic.Nwachukwu DC, Aneke EI, Nwachukwu NZ, Azubike N, Obika LF.Does consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibscus sabdariffa affect renal function in subjects with mild to moderate hypertension?J Physiol Sci. 2017;67(1):227-234. doi:10.1007/s12576-016-0458-zJamrozik D, Borymska W, Kaczmarczyk-Żebrowska I.Hibiscus sabdariffain diabetes prevention and treatment-does it work? An evidence-based review.Foods. 2022;11(14):2134. doi:10.3390/foods11142134Mayasari NR, Susetyowati, Wahyuningsih MSH, Probosuseno.Antidiabetic effect of rosella-stevia tea on prediabetic women in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.J Am Coll Nutr. 2018;37(5):373-379. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1400927Mosca S, Araújo G, Costa V, et al.Dyslipidemia diagnosis and treatment: risk stratification in children and adolescents.J Nutr Metab. 2022;2022:4782344. doi:10.1155/2022/4782344Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa calices on dyslipidemia in obese adolescents: a triple-masked randomized controlled trial.Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-79. doi:10.5455/msm.2013.25.76-79Izadi F, Farrokhzad A, Tamizifar B, Tarrahi MJ, Entezari MH.Effect of sour tea supplementation on liver enzymes, lipid profile, blood pressure, and antioxidant status in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.Phytother Res. 2021;35(1):477-485. doi:10.1002/ptr.6826Izquierdo-Vega JA, Arteaga-Badillo DA, Sánchez-Gutiérrez M, et al.Organic acids from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffaL.)-a brief review of its pharmacological effects.Biomedicines. 2020;8(5):100. doi:10.3390/biomedicines8050100MedlinePlus.Hibiscus sabdariffa.Hibiscus. In:Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Enwerem N, Azuine M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L:safety and efficacy during pregnancy and lactation. Planta Med.2013;79-PS6. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1348820Sireeratawong S, Itharat A, Khonsung P, Lertprasertsuke N, Jaijoy K.Toxicity studies of the water extract from the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in rats.Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013;10(4):122-127. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v10i4.20Bonilla Ocampo DA, Paipilla AF, Marín E, Vargas-Molina S, Petro JL, Pérez-Idárraga A.Dietary nitrate from beetroot juice for hypertension: a systematic review.Biomolecules. 2018;8(4):134. doi:10.3390/biom8040134Raina R, Verma PK, Peshin R, Kour H.Potential ofJuniperus communisL as a nutraceutical in human and veterinary medicine.Heliyon. 2019;5(8):e02376. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02376Chen W, Balan P, Popovich DG.Review of ginseng anti-diabetic studies.Molecules. 2019;24(24):4501. doi:10.3390/molecules24244501Li P, Wang Q, Chen K, et al.Red yeast rice for hyperlipidemia: a meta-analysis of 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials.Front Pharmacol. 2022;12:819482. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.819482Koperska A, Wesołek A, Moszak M, Szulińska M.Berberine in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-a review.Nutrients. 2022;14(17):3459. doi:10.3390/nu14173459Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210
Ojulari OV, Lee SG, Nam JO.Beneficial effects of natural bioactive compounds fromHibiscus sabdariffaL. on obesity.Molecules. 2019;24(1):210. doi:10.3390/molecules24010210
Ellis LR, Zulfiqar S, Holmes M, Marshall L, Dye L, Boesch C.A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers.Nutr Rev. 2022;80(6):1723-1737. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab104
Jalalyazdi M, Ramezani J, Izadi-Moud A, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension.J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2019;10(3):107-111. doi:10.4103/japtr.JAPTR_402_18
Montalvo-González E, Villagrán Z, González-Torres S, et al.Physiological effects and human health benefits ofHibiscus sabdariffa: a review of clinical trials.Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(4):464. doi:10.3390/ph15040464
Da-Costa-Rocha I, Bonnlaender B, Sievers H, Pischel I, Heinrich M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L. - a phytochemical and pharmacological review.Food Chem. 2014;165:424-443. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.05.002
National Cancer Institute.Diuretic.
Nwachukwu DC, Aneke EI, Nwachukwu NZ, Azubike N, Obika LF.Does consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibscus sabdariffa affect renal function in subjects with mild to moderate hypertension?J Physiol Sci. 2017;67(1):227-234. doi:10.1007/s12576-016-0458-z
Jamrozik D, Borymska W, Kaczmarczyk-Żebrowska I.Hibiscus sabdariffain diabetes prevention and treatment-does it work? An evidence-based review.Foods. 2022;11(14):2134. doi:10.3390/foods11142134
Mayasari NR, Susetyowati, Wahyuningsih MSH, Probosuseno.Antidiabetic effect of rosella-stevia tea on prediabetic women in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.J Am Coll Nutr. 2018;37(5):373-379. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1400927
Mosca S, Araújo G, Costa V, et al.Dyslipidemia diagnosis and treatment: risk stratification in children and adolescents.J Nutr Metab. 2022;2022:4782344. doi:10.1155/2022/4782344
Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, et al.Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa calices on dyslipidemia in obese adolescents: a triple-masked randomized controlled trial.Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-79. doi:10.5455/msm.2013.25.76-79
Izadi F, Farrokhzad A, Tamizifar B, Tarrahi MJ, Entezari MH.Effect of sour tea supplementation on liver enzymes, lipid profile, blood pressure, and antioxidant status in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.Phytother Res. 2021;35(1):477-485. doi:10.1002/ptr.6826
Izquierdo-Vega JA, Arteaga-Badillo DA, Sánchez-Gutiérrez M, et al.Organic acids from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffaL.)-a brief review of its pharmacological effects.Biomedicines. 2020;8(5):100. doi:10.3390/biomedicines8050100
MedlinePlus.Hibiscus sabdariffa.
Hibiscus. In:Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Enwerem N, Azuine M.Hibiscus sabdariffa L:safety and efficacy during pregnancy and lactation. Planta Med.2013;79-PS6. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1348820
Sireeratawong S, Itharat A, Khonsung P, Lertprasertsuke N, Jaijoy K.Toxicity studies of the water extract from the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in rats.Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013;10(4):122-127. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v10i4.20
Bonilla Ocampo DA, Paipilla AF, Marín E, Vargas-Molina S, Petro JL, Pérez-Idárraga A.Dietary nitrate from beetroot juice for hypertension: a systematic review.Biomolecules. 2018;8(4):134. doi:10.3390/biom8040134
Raina R, Verma PK, Peshin R, Kour H.Potential ofJuniperus communisL as a nutraceutical in human and veterinary medicine.Heliyon. 2019;5(8):e02376. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02376
Chen W, Balan P, Popovich DG.Review of ginseng anti-diabetic studies.Molecules. 2019;24(24):4501. doi:10.3390/molecules24244501
Li P, Wang Q, Chen K, et al.Red yeast rice for hyperlipidemia: a meta-analysis of 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials.Front Pharmacol. 2022;12:819482. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.819482
Koperska A, Wesołek A, Moszak M, Szulińska M.Berberine in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-a review.Nutrients. 2022;14(17):3459. doi:10.3390/nu14173459
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