Hibiscus Tea Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before You Drink
While hibiscus tea offers impressive health benefits, it’s important to understand potential side effects and interactions. Here’s what you should know before making it a daily habit.
Who Should Be Careful?
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Hibiscus is sometimes used to induce menstruation, which could potentially pose risks during pregnancy. The effects on breastfeeding infants are not well studied. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before consuming hibiscus tea regularly.
People on Blood Pressure Medication
Hibiscus tea can significantly lower blood pressure. If you are already taking blood pressure medication, combining it with hibiscus tea may cause your blood pressure to drop too low. Monitor your levels carefully and consult your doctor.
People with Diabetes
Hibiscus may lower blood sugar levels. Those taking diabetes medications should use caution and monitor for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Before Surgery
Due to its effects on blood sugar and blood pressure, it’s recommended to stop drinking hibiscus tea at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Possible Side Effects
- Digestive upset: Some people experience stomach discomfort or nausea, especially when first adding hibiscus to their diet
- Headache: Rarely reported, but possible in sensitive individuals
- Dizziness: Related to blood pressure-lowering effects
- Allergic reactions: Possible in people allergic to plants in the Malvaceae family
Drug Interactions
Hibiscus may interact with:
- Chloroquine: May reduce the effectiveness of this malaria medication
- Blood pressure medications: May enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect
- Diabetes medications: May enhance hypoglycemic effects
- Estrogen medications: May interfere with estrogen therapy
Recommended Consumption
Most studies use 1-2 cups of hibiscus tea per day, which is generally considered safe for healthy adults. Start with one cup and see how your body responds.
The Bottom Line
Hibiscus tea is safe for most people when consumed in moderation (1-3 cups daily). If you have any of the conditions mentioned above, please consult your healthcare provider before making hibiscus tea a regular part of your routine. As with any dietary change, listen to your body and stop use if you experience any adverse effects.
Where to Buy Quality Hibiscus Tea
You can find quality hibiscus tea at most grocery stores or online. Our recommendations:
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