Hibiscus Tea In Pregnancy: Health Benefits And Risks

Hibiscus tea, with its deep red hue and tart flavor, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. From tropical regions to modern wellness circles, it’s praised for its potential health benefits, including heart health, blood pressure regulation, and immune support. But for expectant mothers, the conversation shifts from benefits to concerns.

Many herbal teas are considered safe during pregnancy, but hibiscus tea raises eyebrows due to its possible effects on hormone levels, blood flow, and uterine contractions. Some cultures have long used it to stimulate menstruation, making its safety for pregnant women a topic of debate. Before sipping that warm cup of tea, it’s crucial to understand both the potential benefits and risks.

Hibiscus tea comes from the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, a tropical flowering species known for its vibrant red blooms. Used in traditional medicine for generations, it has been brewed into a tart, refreshing drink across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Some cultures prepare it as iced tea, while others steep the dried hibiscus flowers in hot water for a more concentrated infusion.

Hibiscus is available in multiple forms, each varying in potency.

The caffeine content of hibiscus tea is naturally zero, making it an attractive choice for those limiting their caffeine intake. However, not all herbal teas are created equal, and some blends contain additives that may not be suitable for pregnant women.

Hibiscus has a long history in folk medicines for treating high blood pressure, digestive issues, and inflammation. Some cultures use it to support liver health, while others rely on its diuretic properties to help with body weight management. Despite its range of health benefits, concerns arise when discussing its effects on pregnancy, particularly due to its potential impact on blood vessels, hormone levels, and the menstrual cycle.

Understanding the full scope of hibiscus tea’s effects is essential, especially for expectant mothers navigating dietary choices. What may be beneficial in one context could pose risks in another.

Hibiscus tea contains powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals. These compounds support the immune system, potentially lowering inflammation and reducing cellular damage. Research suggests that regular consumption may offer protective effects against certain chronic diseases, though more clinical studies are needed to confirm long-term benefits.

Hibiscus tea has been linked to lower blood pressure in some clinical trials [1]. Its ability to relax blood vessels may contribute to improved circulation and cardiovascular function. Some studies indicate it can reduce high cholesterol levels, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease. While promising, these effects may not be suitable for individuals on blood pressure medications, as excessive intake could lead to low blood pressure.

Some research suggests that hibiscus tea may support weight loss by influencing metabolism and fat accumulation. Its diuretic properties help the body eliminate excess fluids, which may contribute to temporary reductions in body weight [2]. Though commonly used in natural medicines for this purpose, sustained weight loss requires more than herbal tea—it demands a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Hibiscus tea has demonstrated antimicrobial properties in some studies, potentially aiding in the fight against bacteria and other pathogens [3]. Traditionally, it has been used for infections, wound healing, and digestive support. Some evidence also suggests it may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic inflammation or immune-related health conditions.

Hibiscus tea has been associated with an emmenagogue effect, meaning it may stimulate blood flow to the uterus. Some cultures have used it traditionally to regulate the menstrual cycle or even induce menstruation [4]. This raises concerns for pregnant women, particularly in the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage is highest. Compounds in hibiscus may alter hormone levels, potentially leading to uterine contractions that could threaten a pregnancy.

Some animal studies have observed reproductive changes after hibiscus consumption. Research on pregnant rats suggests a possible connection between hibiscus intake and delayed puberty in offspring.[5][6] While human studies are limited, these findings indicate that hibiscus may influence fetal development in ways that are not yet fully understood.

Risk in Later Pregnancy Stages

Concerns are not limited to early pregnancy. In the third trimester, excessive consumption of hibiscus tea could still pose risks. Increased blood flow to the uterus and the possibility of low blood pressure could contribute to complications, especially for women with pre-existing health conditions.

Hibiscus tea has been studied for its ability to lower blood pressure, making it a popular natural option for individuals managing high blood pressure. Some clinical studies suggest that hibiscus can relax blood vessels, improving circulation and potentially reducing strain on the heart [1]. This effect may benefit people at risk for heart disease, but it raises concerns for pregnant women, especially those already prone to low blood pressure.

For expectant mothers, low blood pressure can lead to dizziness, fainting, and reduced blood flow to the placenta. This can impact oxygen and nutrient delivery to the baby, increasing the risk of complications. Since hibiscus may amplify this effect, drinking even a single cup of hibiscus tea could cause an unexpected drop in blood pressure, particularly for those already experiencing pregnancy-related changes in circulation.

Interaction with Blood Pressure Medications

Women taking blood pressure medications need to be especially cautious. Hibiscus has been shown to interact with certain drugs, enhancing their effects and leading to an excessive drop in blood pressure. This can result in symptoms like weakness, blurred vision, and irregular heart rhythms. Combining hibiscus with diuretic properties of other herbal teas or supplements could further compound the issue.

In the third trimester, maintaining stable circulation is crucial for both mother and baby. Sudden blood pressure changes can affect blood flow to vital organs, including the uterus. While hibiscus tea may offer heart health benefits in other contexts, its unpredictable impact on circulation during pregnancy makes it a risky choice. Consulting a healthcare provider before consuming hibiscus tea is essential, as individual responses can vary.

Hibiscus tea contains bioactive compounds that influence metabolism and organ function. While often promoted for its antioxidant properties, some research suggests that excessive consumption could contribute to liver damage. Certain clinical studies on animals indicate that high doses of hibiscus extract may elevate liver enzyme levels [7], a sign of liver stress. Though human studies are limited, this raises concerns for pregnant women, whose liver function is already under increased demand.

Hibiscus tea has been linked to lower blood sugar levels, which may benefit those at risk for high blood sugar or metabolic issues. However, for pregnant women managing gestational diabetes, unpredictable drops in blood sugar could lead to dizziness, weakness, or fainting. Those taking medications for diabetes or blood pressure should be cautious, as hibiscus may intensify their effects, leading to unwanted complications.

Though rare, some individuals experience allergic reactions to hibiscus. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, or breathing difficulties. Additionally, hibiscus has diuretic properties, which may lead to dehydration if consumed in excess. Some people also report mild digestive issues, including stomach cramps or nausea, after drinking a cup of hibiscus tea.

Some animal studies suggest that hibiscus may influence hormone levels, raising questions about its long-term effects. Research on pregnant rats has shown possible links between hibiscus consumption and delayed puberty in offspring [5]. While direct evidence in humans is lacking, these findings highlight the need for further research on how hibiscus affects reproductive development.

Hibiscus tea, derived from the hibiscus plant, contains bioactive compounds that may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. While not common, sensitivities can develop, especially in those with existing allergies to plants in the Malvaceae family, which includes okra and cotton. Symptoms can range from mild itching and skin irritation to more severe responses like swelling or difficulty breathing.

Cross-Reactivity and Immune System Response

Some people experience cross-reactivity, where the immune system mistakes hibiscus compounds for other allergens. This can lead to heightened immune system activity, causing rashes, hives, or digestive distress. Those with pollen allergies or sensitivities to natural medicines may be more prone to these reactions.

Gastrointestinal Sensitivities

Even without a true allergy, some individuals experience digestive discomfort after consuming a cup of hibiscus tea. Symptoms may include nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea. This could be due to the tea’s diuretic properties, which can increase fluid loss and irritation in sensitive individuals.

Hibiscus tea may offer several potential health benefits in certain contexts, but its safety during pregnancy remains uncertain. The possible effects on blood pressure, hormones, and the uterus pose risks that may outweigh the advantages for expectant mothers. With concerns ranging from uterine contractions to allergic reactions, it's crucial for pregnant women to approach hibiscus tea with caution. While herbal teas can be a refreshing alternative to caffeinated beverages, healthcare providers should always be consulted before adding new herbal products to a pregnancy diet. Prioritizing safety and well-being during pregnancy is essential for both mother and baby.

1. Boushehri, S. N., Karimbeiki, R., Ghasempour, S., Ghalishourani, S., Pourmasoumi, M., Hadi, A., Mbabazi, M., Pour, Z. K., Assarroudi, M., Mahmoodi, M., Khosravi, A., Mansour‐Ghanaei, F., & Joukar, F. (2020). The efficacy of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) on selected cardiovascular disease risk factors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials. Phytotherapy Research, 34(2), 329–339. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6541

2. Ojulari, O. V., Lee, S. G., & Nam, J.-O. (2019). Beneficial Effects of Natural Bioactive Compounds from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. on Obesity. Molecules, 24(1), 210. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24010210

3. Almajid, A., Bazroon, A., AlAhmed, A., & Bakhurji, O. (2023). Exploring the Health Benefits and Therapeutic Potential of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) in Human Studies: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus, 15(11), e49309. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.49309

4. Sreesha, G., & Prasanna, D. S. (2020). Herbal Tea Treatment of Oligomennerhea Condition with Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis and Carica Papaya. In Learning and analytics in intelligent systems (pp. 263–273). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-46939-9_23

5. Enwerem, N. (2016). Hibiscus sabdariffa L: Safety and Efficacy during Pregnancy and Lactation. Nursing & Care Open Access Journal, 1(4). https://doi.org/10.15406/ncoaj.2016.01.00019

6.Iyare, E., & Adegoke, O. (2010). Mechanism of the delayed puberty onset in offspring of rats that consumed aqueous extract of hibiscus sabdariffa during pregnancy. Nigerian Journal of Physiological Sciences, 23(1–2). https://doi.org/10.4314/njps.v23i1-2.54929

7.Hopkins, A. L., Lamm, M. G., Funk, J. L., & Ritenbaugh, C. (2013). Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in the treatment of hypertension and hyperlipidemia: a comprehensive review of animal and human studies. Fitoterapia, 85, 84–94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2013.01.003