Hibiscus might help blood pressure

Vibrantly colored hibiscus flowers originated in the tropics of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, but today they’re a common sight worldwide. Hundreds of species of hibiscus have been identified, with some boasting blooms up to a foot in diameter. In some countries, the papery-petaled flowers are used to make soft drinks and dyes, while other parts of the plant are used as food staples.

Uses: As a folk medicine, hibiscus blossoms have been used to treat high blood pressure, liver disease, indigestion, colds, constipation, respiratory conditions and appetite loss. Most hibiscus supplements are made from the species H. sabdariffa.

Dose: As a supplement, hibiscus is most commonly found in herbal lozenges, teas and herbal laxative products. To brew hibiscus tea, use a couple of grams of the dried flower per cup of boiling water; use up to 10 grams a day.

Precautions: Hibiscus hasn’t been rigorously studied, but so far no serious side effects have been documented.

Research: An increasing amount of research is investigating the validity of the hibiscus’ long list of medical uses. In vitro, the pigment molecules in the species H. sabdariffa and H. rosa sinensis show promise in protecting against liver damage, high cholesterol and oxidative damage. In other lab experiments, H. sabdariffa destroyed human stomach cancer and leukemia cells. In animal studies, hibiscus extracts prevented atherosclerosis (hypertension), ulcers, liver damage and skin cancer due to ultraviolet radiation. Human clinical trials are still few in number, but a study of people with hypertension suggested that H. sabdariffa lowered blood pressure as effectively as a common prescription drug.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your healthcare provider for advice on selecting a brand.

-- Elena Conis