Several research show that hibiscus tea may help people lose weight and prevent obesity. In one research, 36 overweight people were given either hibiscus extract or a placebo. Hibiscus extract lowered body weight, body fat, body mass index, and hip-to-waist ratio after 12 weeks (10). Another study found that drinking hibiscus tea twice daily for two months helped people lose weight without changing their diet or exercise habits (11).
Hibiscus is a flowering plant that grows in tropical climates around the world. The flowers are used to make tea. There are several varieties of hibiscus, but only one variety is commonly used to make tea: H. sabdariffa.
People have been drinking hibiscus tea for years to treat ailments such as diabetes, cancer, and urinary tract infections (12). More recently, researchers have started studying the effects of hibiscus tea on obesity and other health issues. They have found that it can reduce body weight and body fat when consumed along with a regular meal plan.
Hibiscus tea contains antioxidants called flavonoids that may help fight obesity-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Drinking hibiscus tea may also help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Although more research is needed to understand how hibiscus tea affects the body, its possible benefits for weight loss make it worth investigating further.
In addition to decreasing blood pressure, some research suggests that hibiscus tea may help decrease blood fat levels, which is another risk factor for heart disease. However, tea has many substances in it that can interact with other medications you may be taking, so please talk with your doctor before switching to hibiscus tea.
Hibiscus tea has been shown to help prevent hypertension, lower blood pressure, lower blood sugar levels, keep your liver healthy, alleviate period cramps, alleviate depression, improve digestion, and aid in weight control. It is high in Vitamin C, possesses minerals like flavonoids, and has laxative qualities. Rose hibiscus also has medicinal uses similar to those of cranberry juice, with additional benefits such as antibiotic properties.
Rose hibiscus has long been used by Native Americans as a beverage and food source. Today, it is popular in Latin American countries like Mexico and Brazil for its refreshing flavor and red color. The flowers are dried and sold in natural foods stores and markets throughout the United States.
Rose hibiscus has a tart flavor that some people may find too strong for drinking alone. However, it is excellent when mixed with other flavors such as orange or milk. Adding honey or sweeteners will reduce the overall acidity of the drink while still keeping it tasty.
Rose hibiscus can be made into a tea by simply pouring boiling water over the dried flowers. Let the mixture steep for 5 minutes, then strain and drink. You can add spices or vanilla extract for extra flavor. Rose hibiscus tea is best consumed immediately after making. Otherwise, the acidic nature of the tea could cause tooth enamel to wear away.
According to animal and test-tube research, hibiscus may aid in weight reduction, boost heart and liver health, and even help fight cancer and infections. The majority of current research, however, is restricted to test-tube and animal experiments utilizing large volumes of hibiscus extract. There are no published studies showing how much hibiscus it takes to see these benefits in humans.
In addition to its healthy attributes, hibiscus has a sweet, mild floral fragrance that some people find appealing. It can be used both as a food coloring and as a flavoring agent in baked goods and tea.
Eating hibiscus is not recommended as a replacement for prescribed medication or obesity treatment programs. Its beneficial properties may be inhibited by acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus fruits. Also, excessive consumption of flowers with strong colors (such as red) may cause irritability, dizziness, and nausea.
People who are trying to reduce their intake of acidifying foods should avoid eating hibiscus. Those taking medications or involved in other medical programs should discuss the implications of adding hibiscus to their diet with their doctor before doing so.
The health benefits of hibiscus are numerous, but the amount needed to see these effects isn't clear.