Green tea and hibiscus tea are linked to heart health, but they don’t affect blood pressure in the same way. Research suggests that green tea offers modest benefits, while hibiscus tea may have a slightly stronger and more consistent effect. While both can be part of your routine, tea is a complement to medical care and not a replacement. You should always discuss adding any new supplement to your diet with a healthcare provider.
Hibiscus tea stands out for having more consistent evidence for blood pressure reduction. Research on green tea has found some positive benefits, but results are mixed and vary widely in how much green tea people drink and how long they’ve been studied.
“Hibiscus tea has been shown to lower blood pressure more than other herbal teas, especially in those with elevated readings,” Alyssa Simpson, RD, told Health. Studies have found that drinking hibiscus tea may reduce both systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom) blood pressure readings.
Green tea may offer modest blood pressure benefits, but effects are small and inconsistent compared with other interventions.
Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains antioxidants called catechins, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals (unstable molecules that contribute to inflammation).
“Green tea contains antioxidants, including catechins, which may help lower blood pressure,” Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LD, told Health. “These compounds also have anti-inflammatory effects, which may relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.”
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a well-studied catechin found in green tea, known for its role in reducing oxidative stress, a process that can damage blood vessels and affect blood pressure regulation. “Some research suggests that EGCG can prevent cellular oxidation from free radicals and reduce inflammation in blood vessels,” Sarah Glinski, RD, told Health.
Hibiscus tea is made from the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa flower. It’s naturally caffeine-free and contains anthocyanins, antioxidants that help protect blood vessels from damage.
Research suggests hibiscus tea may support healthy blood pressure in several ways:
- Antioxidants and fluid balance: “Hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure due to its antioxidant content,” said Andrews. She notes that it also acts as a natural diuretic, which helps the body remove excess sodium and water.
- Blood vessel relaxation: Hibiscus appears to support vasodilation, meaning it helps blood vessels relax and widen, though more human studies are needed.
- Hormone pathways: Hibiscus may mildly block angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a hormone system that raises blood pressure by tightening blood vessels and causing the body to hold onto fluid.
- Nitric oxide: “Hibiscus tea may also increase nitric oxide production, which promotes blood vessel relaxation and reduces inflammation,” said Glinski.
Green and hibiscus teas both offer health benefits, but their effects on blood pressure differ slightly:
Green Tea
Hibiscus Tea
Evidence for Blood Pressure
Mixed results with modest benefits. Small reductions (about 1–2 mm Hg on average)
More consistent evidence, especially for systolic blood pressure. Moderate reductions (about 5–7 mm Hg systolic on average)
Who Benefits Most
People seeking general heart health
People with elevated blood pressure
Amount Used in Studies
Varies across studies, but commonly 3 to 4 cups daily
Most often, 2 to 3 cups daily
Caffeine
Yes
No
If lowering blood pressure is your immediate goal, hibiscus tea may be a good place to start.
Green tea may have a smaller effect on blood pressure, but it also offers additional heart-protective benefits. “One study found that drinking three to five cups of green tea daily was associated with a 41% lower rate of death from heart disease compared with people who didn’t drink green tea,” says Glinski.
Andrews emphasizes that drinking either tea alone isn’t enough. Supporting blood pressure also means eating a heart-healthy diet rich in potassium, limiting sodium and alcohol, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight. Some people also need medications to help keep their blood pressure at a lower range. Make sure to always discuss with your healthcare provider, since supplements may interact with your diet and other medications.
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