Many benefits of Hibiscus tea | Fusion - WeRIndia

Hibiscus tea, with its ruby red colour and tangy flavour, has gained popularity as an alternative to regular tea and coffee.

Found in warm countries like India, Thailand, Vietnam, and others, hibiscus contains various bioactive compounds such as anthocyanin, organic acids, flavonoids, and more.

Studies have suggested several potential properties of hibiscus tea. Some of them are its ability to lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower blood sugar levels.

It is also considered an antioxidant, antimicrobial agent, anti-cancer agent, and a potential aid for weight management.

Here are the health benefits of hibiscus tea:

One potential use of hibiscus tea is its ability to help lower blood sugar levels. Research has indicated that the polyphenols in hibiscus tea may inhibit enzymes responsible for digesting carbohydrates, thereby reducing glucose levels. However, further human studies are required to confirm this effect.

Another potential benefit is its ability to reduce blood pressure. Flavonoids present in hibiscus tea are believed to relax blood vessel walls, leading to lowered blood pressure. However, more research on humans is needed to validate this claim.

Hibiscus tea may also positively impact cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that it may lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol levels, attributed to its antioxidant properties. Again, more human studies are required for conclusive evidence.

In terms of reducing inflammation, hibiscus tea’s saponins, flavonoids, and plant sterols are thought to inhibit the enzyme responsible for inflammation. However, further human studies are needed.

Weight management is another potential use of hibiscus tea, as animal studies have suggested that it may reduce weight by affecting cholesterol levels and inhibiting certain enzymes responsible for fat increase. However, human studies are lacking, and consulting a dietician is recommended before making significant dietary changes.

Moreover, hibiscus tea may offer benefits against microbial infections. Research has indicated its antibacterial and antifungal properties, potentially helpful against various bacteria and fungi. Still, further studies on humans are necessary.

Lastly, hibiscus tea’s polyphenols have been linked to anti-cancer effects, inhibiting tumour growth and deactivating cancerous cells. However, conclusive evidence from human studies is required.

Despite promising studies, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of hibiscus tea’s benefits on human health. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional instead of self-medicating based solely on these findings.

Image Credit: MRG90, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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