Hibiscus Acids
Also known as: Hibiscus, Roselle, Sorrel, Hibiscus sabdariffa
Overview
Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as roselle or hibiscus, is a tropical plant native to various regions and widely recognized for its vibrant red calyces, which are used to create teas, infusions, and dietary supplements. The primary bioactive compounds in hibiscus include anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hibiscus is primarily utilized for potential cardiovascular benefits, particularly in lowering blood pressure, and improving lipid profiles. The body of research includes several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, indicating that hibiscus may help manage hypertension and has moderate-quality evidence supporting its efficacy. It is generally consumed through teas or supplements.
Benefits
Hibiscus supplementation has shown several evidence-backed benefits, notably: (1) Blood Pressure Reduction: A systematic review found that hibiscus can lower systolic blood pressure by approximately 7.10 mmHg compared to placebo, providing effects similar to some pharmaceutical medications. (2) Lipid Profile Improvement: Significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels have been noted. Additional benefits include potential reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides, primarily observed in individuals with elevated baseline blood pressure. The clinically significant effects on blood pressure and lipid profiles appear within a few weeks of regular consumption.
How it works
Hibiscus acids primarily act through the inhibition of enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, such as HMG-CoA reductase, along with exerting antioxidant effects. These mechanisms support cardiovascular health by modulating blood pressure and enhancing lipid profiles. Known molecular targets include enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis, enhancing the antioxidant defense system in the body. The bioavailability and absorption of hibiscus compounds can vary depending on their form of administration, whether as tea or concentrated supplements.
Side effects
Generally, hibiscus is considered safe for most individuals when consumed in normal dietary amounts. However, common side effects (greater than 5%) may include gastrointestinal upset such as bloating or stomach cramps. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) could involve allergic reactions or interactions with certain medications, particularly those affecting blood pressure or diabetes. Rare side effects are not well-documented but should be monitored. Caution is advised for individuals with underlying health conditions such as kidney or liver disease, and the use of hibiscus is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of hibiscus varies based on the intended effect. Typical doses range from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day, with many studies using a range of 1000 mg to 2000 mg. It's suggested to take hibiscus with meals to reduce any gastrointestinal discomfort. While a minimum effective dose has not been well-established, it's essential to monitor for potential side effects at higher dosages, as maximum safe doses are not precisely defined. Variation in bioavailability should be considered between different forms of hibiscus (teas vs. supplements).
FAQs
Is hibiscus safe to take with my current medications?
Hibiscus is generally safe, but consult your healthcare provider before starting, particularly if you are on blood pressure or diabetes medications.
When should I take hibiscus for best results?
It is best to consume hibiscus with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
How long will it take to notice the effects of hibiscus?
Benefits like blood pressure and lipid profile improvements may take several weeks of consistent use to observe.
Can hibiscus replace my prescribed medications?
Hibiscus should not replace medical treatments; consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your regimen.
Research Sources
- https://watermark.silverchair.com/nuab104.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAA2swggNnBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggNYMIIDVAIBADCCA00GCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMmRpi6JpCaCE0aaxaAgEQgIIDHp7iiXVRxVhG4kBsO6yuu40ci1LZM6Au5QBBTAyrtSia5FPkSW4NdATOnyLc5uiyNH3LiPvCRnaSO_b4ZYXr1SoH42fvqU5mox0yPCQsOKSFbOzlFM_y8itVZxpxdNxwnrDAJ7X25R0woLIiDgmvnaVnN2pxO65grMy_JiWZR5bgBrHrRrId-W6Di2BCeMaNcvSFSNAn6Vc6QizZsaY_LwOVcM-cstjwMFRC9K3ywxLhP4LKwzfeCgMIjnbnGFpabmsmKXuLV5UpQrgMDA-LcR3BibVexemVsMqAp55n8ga5jisdEpFpyVWYWEYq8nYxeB3xLzO7V0olqYY4aKoFw14D20OnTQGwBbE_7VzxzjH1ZoysL7727ZnIiVSfhYPuzfwPROOl1c3a5h2_lsfFiBh2KmePgW30Unls-5fwRT2m_E67k3dpPFpNZob719Ixwo4HUmEX6rT7Zry1Ml2lOatHFp-aLJi47dZaDIX0YdssItbDa28zp0SWIVPnVRZHpkBA-ZJq2VMkpSZUi_mot2H5rwts6f3mXMj43w6sBd5ZB1OEJx4ClpNvosNGjlEvUeTX7LD0ootIRQU-h2AZ5k8BMECJBUFwuxpZAoXtID8xA5Crn3skcVR-BV4dT0gaP4iD0Pzcv6PrYqCmUoLSA9lA89DmzL5GWWE6UoiVrPSRR0d8DYoz3K0LUBp_H_orFzaBKh3u7SUmEuPkqsWQVyNXbjk5LYeu4psEJ7Vrjr5sqjLENy7rkbv201HyZT-MUhzLKdeOhX1owwR3CU9KdiNm0VZsnvFwTPwG8k8bAZaUjSYy9gH_U6Q_8NIcfHg8wWvRw7Ujt5AmkanIJVDs7yT2RdIZ1YTBySorbEgF5U1wyMuaOdR7JkazY_qGeawtyI8rpQQv8zom-UG5dEE6-dGghzuI8Xe7gz6vy_y9xOw3hgy719cQTWmzkRagJkFLJ1Nyxy_4QxW09bT9QkIsOEjkQG185Rn8m0c7eqLNvqGtmIkW86vF_W-UGVMrkxydjEd-wYiu4kHZh9z2GbTuYijGru2F0XRoZmqJ4EiBZQ – The study by Ellis et al. (2021) systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed 17 randomized controlled trials, concluding that hibiscus supplementation could significantly lower systolic blood pressure by an average of 7.10 mmHg, indicating effects comparable to some conventional antihypertensive medications.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/12/11/2269 – Lin et al. (2014) conducted a randomized crossover study revealing that an aqueous extract of hibiscus effectively reduced total cholesterol and LDL levels in hypercholesterolemic patients, showing promising data in a sample of 42 individuals.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34927694/ – Sabzghabaee et al. (2015) reported modest benefits of hibiscus on lipid profiles in obese adolescents, indicating that while initial results were encouraging, further research is necessary to clarify its effects across various populations.
