How Much Hibiscus Tea to Lower Blood Pressure?
Hibiscus tea is a popular herbal beverage made from the deep red-colored calyx of the Hibiscus sabdariffa flower. It has a number of health benefits and can be used to lower blood pressure, especially in those with hypertension. But just how much do you need to drink to get this benefit?
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea has proven to have a number of health benefits, some of which include:
- Lowering blood pressure: Studies have shown that drinking hibiscus tea can significantly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
- Fighting bacteria and viruses: Hibiscus tea has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help fight off bacterial and viral infections.
- Reducing inflammation: The tea’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviating discomfort from ailments like arthritis.
- Boosting metabolism: Consuming hibiscus tea can help increase metabolic rate, which may aid in weight loss.
How Much Hibiscus Tea to Lower Blood Pressure?
To get the typical benefits of hibiscus tea in terms of lowering blood pressure, medical professionals recommend drinking 3-4 cups per day. Each cup should contain 1-2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus flowers. For maximum benefit, drinkers should spread the cup amounts out throughout the day.
It’s also important to note that it may take several weeks to notice any difference in blood pressure. Additionally, it’s best to combine the tea with lifestyle changes like reducing sodium intake and increasing activity for best results.
Possible Side Effects
Consuming hibiscus tea has very few side effects, but some people have reported feeling nausea, headaches, upset stomach, and cramping. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to discontinue drinking the tea and consult a medical professional.
Consuming too much hibiscus tea can also lead to a few more serious side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage. For this reason, it’s best to stick to the recommended dosage of 3-4 cups per day.
Conclusion
Hibiscus tea can provide a number of health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and fighting off bacterial and viral infections. To get these benefits, it’s recommended to drink 3-4 cups of the tea a day with 1-2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus flowers per cup. Any more than that could lead to possible side effects. With the proper lifestyle changes, however, the tea can be a powerful supplement to any health regimen.
