Hibiscus tea has a striking deep red colour, a naturally tart, cranberry-like flavour, and a growing reputation as a health-supporting herbal drink. But what does the evidence actually say about its benefits, and is there anything worth knowing before making it a daily habit?
What Is Hibiscus Tea?
Hibiscus tea is made by steeping the dried calyces (the petal-like part surrounding the flower's base) of the hibiscus plant, most commonly Hibiscus sabdariffa, in hot water. It's naturally caffeine-free and rich in anthocyanins, the plant compounds responsible for its vivid red colour and much of its antioxidant activity.
What Is Hibiscus Tea Good For?
Supporting Healthy Blood Pressure
Hibiscus tea is one of the more researched herbal teas when it comes to blood pressure. Several studies have found that regularly drinking hibiscus tea is associated with modest reductions in blood pressure in people with mildly elevated readings. It's not a replacement for prescribed medication, but it's one of the more evidence-backed claims associated with this particular tea.
Rich in Antioxidants
The anthocyanins responsible for hibiscus tea's deep colour are a type of antioxidant, helping to counter oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidant-rich foods and drinks are generally associated with broader long-term health support, though hibiscus tea alone isn't a substitute for a varied, antioxidant-rich diet overall.
May Support Healthy Cholesterol
Some research suggests hibiscus tea may have a modest positive effect on cholesterol levels, though the evidence here is less consistent than for blood pressure, and more research is needed to draw firm conclusions.
Skin Benefits
Hibiscus is a popular ingredient in skincare products, valued for its antioxidant content and mild natural acids. Drinking hibiscus tea is sometimes associated with supporting skin health from within, largely thanks to its antioxidant profile, though topical hibiscus-based products and drinking the tea have quite different, and separately evidenced, effects – it's worth not conflating the two.
Naturally Caffeine-Free
Like peppermint tea, hibiscus tea contains no caffeine at all, making it a good option if you're looking to reduce your overall caffeine intake or want something suitable to drink in the evening.
Things to Know Before Drinking Hibiscus Tea Regularly
- Blood pressure medication: because hibiscus tea can itself lower blood pressure, it's worth speaking to your GP or pharmacist before drinking it regularly if you're on blood pressure medication, since the combined effect could lower your blood pressure more than intended
- Pregnancy: hibiscus tea is generally advised against during pregnancy as a precaution, so check with your midwife or GP if you're expecting
- Tartness: its naturally tart flavour isn't for everyone – it's often blended with other fruits or a little honey to soften the taste
The Bottom Line
Hibiscus tea is a genuinely interesting herbal tea with more research behind its blood pressure benefits than many other herbal drinks, alongside a good antioxidant profile and zero caffeine. As with any herbal supplement-style drink, it's worth checking with a healthcare professional first if you're on regular medication, particularly for blood pressure.
