The research review also noted clinical trials of hibiscus tea which found favourable changes to blood cholesterol, triglycerides, inflammation, and blood glucose control – these are all key markers for cardiovascular health.
Lead author of the Tea Advisory Panel review and medical herbalist, Dr Chris Etheridge, added: “Like berries, cocoa, olive oil, nuts and avocados, hibiscus is a source of polyphenols – plant compounds which lower inflammation and protect body cells from free radical damage.
“We already know from clinical trials that regular black tea has cardiovascular effects – thanks to its rich polyphenol content, mostly from flavonoids.
“Now we see a similar positive impact from Hibiscus infusions, which are rich in another type of polyphenol, called anthocyanins.
