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ARS Home » Northeast Area » Boston, Massachusetts » Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #248921
Title: Can hibiscus tea lower blood pressure

Author
item MCKAY, DIANE - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University

Submitted to: Agro-Food Industry Hi-Tech
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/2009
Publication Date: 12/11/2009
Citation: Mckay, D.L. 2009. Can hibiscus tea lower blood pressure. Agro-Food Industry Hi-Tech. 20(6):40-42.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Hibiscus sabdariffa is a common ingredient found in blended herbal teas, and beverages made from the dried calyces of this plant are popular worldwide. In vitro studies have shown that H. sabdariffa has antioxidant properties and, in animal models of hypertension, extracts of this plant lower blood pressure. Its anti-hypertensive effects have also been examined in a limited number of human intervention trials. The mechanisms of action of hibiscus may be related to the vasorelaxant, diuretic, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor activities of its polyphenolic constituents. Further studies, including properly controlled clinical trials, are essential to fully substantiate the blood pressure-lowering effects of H. sabdariffa.