Medical experts are of the opinion that hibiscus tea is generally safe or most people. It is in a few cases that it may trigger side effects. This article gives you an insight into the possible side effects of drinking hibiscus tea.
Many herbalist tout for the ability of the hibiscus tea to treat a variety of medical ailments ranging from common cold, swelling, poor appetite, high blood pressure, stomach disorders to upper respiratory tract disorders. However, the hibiscus tea may have its own share of side effects.
Why Hibiscus Tea May Not be Good for Some People?
» Hibiscus tea is well-known for its blood-pressure lowering quality thus, it should not be taken by people with hypotension (low blood pressure). According to a study conducted by a medical research center, people who frequently drink this herbal tea, experience a reduction of 7.2 points in their systolic blood pressure. So this implies that people with low blood pressure must not consume this tea as otherwise there may occur severe complications such as faintness, dizziness, weakness, or in some cases, damage to the heart or brain.
» Another side effect of this herbal tea may be an effect that may be similar to experiencing hallucinations. Which is why, people who consume the tea for the first time, are advised not to go for driving or any other activity, wherein, sleepiness may spell trouble.
» The chemicals in the hibiscus plant affect the estrogen levels, especially in women. So one side effect could be hormonal changes in the body. This may particularly affect people who had undergone hormone replacement therapy, or women who are using birth control pills.
» Some experts believe that drinking hibiscus tea during pregnancy could be unsafe. The tea, supposedly, has certain properties which could trigger off menstruation, and this could cause a miscarriage. Although the theory is not supported by clinical evidence, the word is to stay on the safe side and avoid its use. To add to this, the tea must be avoided even by nursing mothers.
» Certain chemicals in the plant are known to attack cancer cells that affect the skin and the brain. So, people who are already on drugs for treating cancer, must not consume the hibiscus tea. Otherwise, the side effects may occur in the form of an additive effect on the treatment, and this may worsen the condition.
The Positive Side
» Hibiscus tea is known for its antioxidant nature. It helps in neutralizing the effect of free radicals in the body.
» The tea also helps boosts the immune system, improves cell development, and reduces risks of cancer and cataracts.
» As mentioned already, this herbal tea helps in lowering elevated blood pressure level, and treats liver disorders. Since the tea reduces high cholesterol, it is beneficial for reducing the risk of heart diseases.
» Being a natural antispasmodic, the tea made from the hibiscus flowers relieves muscle spasm, menstrual cramps and even abdominal cramps.
» Taking the tea after meal, stimulates metabolism thus, helps in breaking down starch and sugar. This eventually aids in losing weight.
» As the tea is rich in vitamin C, it helps the body to have a speedy recovery from illnesses such as cold and flu.
As we can understand from the above description, under certain circumstances which might involve an underlying disease or medication, hibiscus tea may cause a few side effects. Otherwise, it offers a good deal of benefits to human health.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
