The Effect of Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Tea on Blood Pressure

The Effect of Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Tisane on Blood Pressure in Prehypertensive and Mildly Hypertensive Men and Women

The goal of this study is to find out whether the plant compounds present in Hibiscus sabdariffa, a plant commonly used in herbal tea blends and other beverages, will have a beneficial effect on blood pressure in people with mildly elevated blood pressure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Systolic blood pressure 120-150 mm Hg
• Diastolic blood pressure 95 mm Hg or less
• Body mass index (BMI) 18.5-34.9 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Smoking
• Use of medications that influence blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Regular use of vitamin C supplements (min 500 mg/day) within prior 30 days
• Regular strenuous aerobic activity greater than 30 min/day
• Excessive intake of caffeine or alcohol
• Pregnancy within last 6 months or during study period
• Abnormal complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis or electrocardiogram (EKG)