Hot vs cold hibiscus tea: expert dispels blood pressure myths

Dr. Saleh Al-Ghamdi, a consultant and hypertension specialist, stated that the widely circulated belief that hot hibiscus tea raises blood pressure while cold hibiscus lowers it is inaccurate.

He explained on his account on the X platform that hibiscus may help lower blood pressure, with some studies indicating it can reduce systolic blood pressure by an average of about 6–7 points when consumed regularly, especially in people who already have high blood pressure.

Al-Ghamdi noted that this effect is likely due to compounds such as anthocyanins and polyphenols found in hibiscus, which help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, and it may also have a mild diuretic effect.

He clarified that there is no credible evidence or study proving a difference between hot and cold hibiscus tea. He emphasized that it is best consumed naturally without sugar, in amounts of one to two cups daily. However, hibiscus is not a substitute for blood pressure medication, and treatment should not be stopped because of it.