Herb & supplement monograph

Hibiscus Sabdariffa Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Hibiscus Sabdariffa interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Hibiscus Sabdariffa is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Hibiscus Sabdariffa is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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On this page

Hibiscus Sabdariffa Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Hibiscus Sabdariffa drug interaction appears low for most people, with only a few specific medications needing real caution. Only two listed interactions are rated major, and the great majority are minor and based mainly on lab research rather than effects seen in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The clearest concern is chloroquine: human evidence shows hibiscus tea can lower chloroquine levels enough to weaken its protection against malaria, so this pairing should be avoided. Human study data also show hibiscus can lower levels of simvastatin, which could make it less effective. Because hibiscus itself tends to lower blood sugar and blood pressure, people taking diabetes or blood pressure medications could see an added effect, though this is based on more limited evidence.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of other medications does not mean each combination is harmful. Most entries are theoretical, based on lab findings that hibiscus might slow the enzymes the body uses to clear many drugs, and these effects have not been reported in people. A predicted effect on acetaminophen, for example, did not change its overall levels in a meaningful way.

Check your medications against Hibiscus Sabdariffa

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Hibiscus Sabdariffa interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Hibiscus Sabdariffa

1089 medications have a known interaction with Hibiscus Sabdariffa, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2 major interactions. These combinations can be clinically significant — best avoided, or used only with close professional supervision. Always check with your pharmacist before combining them with Hibiscus Sabdariffa.

2,830 drugs
ChloroquineAralen HCL, Aralen Phosphate, Aralen Phosphate Injection, Avloclor, Malarivon, Nivaquine› Chloroquine, Primaquine PhosphateAralen / Primaquine› AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose› AcebutololRhotral, Sectral› AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox› AcetohexamideDymelor› AlbiglutideTanzeum› AliskirenTekturna› AlogliptinNesina› Alogliptin, MetforminKazano› Alogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni› AmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris› AmilorideAmilamont, Midamor› Amiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic› AmlodipineNorliqva› Amlodipine BenzoateKaterzia› Amlodipine BesilateIstin› Amlodipine BesylateNorvasc› Amlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel› Amlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi› Ammonium ChlorideAmmonium Chloride› Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) InhibitorGlyxambi› AprocitentanTryvio› AtenololAtenix, Tenormin› Atenolol, ChlortalidoneAtenixCo, Tenoret 50, Totaretic› Atenolol, ChlorthalidoneTenoretic› AzilsartanEdarbi› Azilsartan, ChlorthalidoneEdarbyclor› BenazeprilLotensin› Benazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT›
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Hibiscus Sabdariffa combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Hibiscus Sabdariffa affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Hibiscus Sabdariffa is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 16 drug categories Hibiscus Sabdariffa interacts with
Chloroquine (aralen)Antidiabetes DrugsAntihypertensive DrugsDiclofenac (voltaren, Others)Losartan (cozaar)Simvastatin (zocor)Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2a6 (cyp2a6) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c8 (cyp2c8) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2e1 (cyp2e1) SubstratesCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates
Chloroquine (Aralen)

Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea along with chloroquine seems to reduce levels of chloroquine.
When taken together, Hibiscus sabdariffa tea significantly reduces the bioavailability of chloroquine. This may reduce its clinical effects. People taking chloroquine for the treatment or prevention of malaria should avoid Hibiscus sabdariffa tea.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Most clinical research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa can reduce blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Most clinical evidence suggests that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In animal research, Hibiscus sabdariffa increased the hypotensive effects of single doses of losartan and amlodipine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diclofenac (Voltaren, Others)

Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with diclofenac may increase the levels and adverse effects of diclofenac.
Pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that drinking a beverage made with Hibiscus sabdariffa flowers reduces the excretion of diclofenac by approximately 38% when compared with water. The clinical significance of this is unknown.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Losartan (Cozaar)

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa might increase the levels and clinical effects of losartan.
Animal research in rats with laboratory-induced hypertension shows that providing Hibiscus sabdariffa for 14-17 days prior to a single administration with losartan modestly increases losartan concentrations and increases hypotensive effects when compared with a single administration of losartan alone. It is not clear if Hibiscus sabdariffa alters the concentration or effects of losartan when taken continuously. Additionally, this interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Simvastatin (Zocor)

Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with simvastatin might reduce the levels and clinical effects of simvastatin.
A pharmacokinetic study in humans shows that taking a beverage prepared with dried Hibiscus sabdariffa flower 300 grams concurrently with a single dose of simvastatin 40 mg increases the clearance of simvastatin by about 45% and reduces peak levels of simvastatin by 18%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)

Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with acetaminophen might decrease the clinical effects of acetaminophen.
There is some evidence that consuming a Hibiscus sabdariffa beverage (Zobo drink) before taking acetaminophen can decrease the elimination half-life of acetaminophen. Hibiscus sabdariffa does not seem to decrease maximum concentration or area under the curve of acetaminophen. The clinical significance of this is unknown.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP1A2. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2A6 (Cyp2A6) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2A6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2A6. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2B6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2B6. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C19. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C8 (Cyp2C8) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C8 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C8. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C9. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2D6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2D6. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2E1 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2E1. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP3A4. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Hibiscus Sabdariffa: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Hibiscus sabdariffa is a tart, cranberry-flavored plant most often consumed as a tea, and its best-studied use is for mildly lowering blood pressure. Evidence for other uses is limited, and while hibiscus tea is generally well tolerated in food amounts, concentrated supplements should be used cautiously and avoided in pregnancy. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using it for a medical condition.

Hibiscus Sabdariffa
Scientific name
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Family
Malvaceae
Part used
Dried flowers (calyces), and sometimes leaves
Common forms
Tea, dried calyces, capsules, extracts, juices/beverages
People commonly use it for
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart and cholesterol health
  • Digestive upset
  • Antioxidant support
  • Fever and general wellness

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated as a tea, but concentrated extracts and high doses warrant caution.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used orally. Hibiscus sabdariffa is thought to be a menstrual stimulant, and might have abortifacient effects.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingPossibly Unsafe

When used orally in large amounts. Animal research found that administering large doses of Hibiscus sabdariffa during lactation decreases food and wat...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Hibiscus sabdariffa, also called roselle, red sorrel, or by names like Agua de Jamaica and Bissap, is a plant in the mallow family. It grows in warm, tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.

The part people use most is the deep-red flower calyx (the cup-shaped part that holds the flower). When dried and steeped in water, it makes a tart, ruby-colored drink that tastes a bit like cranberry. It is enjoyed as a beverage around the world and is also sold as capsules, extracts, and concentrated supplements.

In traditional medicine, hibiscus has been used for many purposes, from supporting heart health to easing digestion. Modern interest has focused mainly on its possible effect on blood pressure.

How it works

Hibiscus is rich in plant compounds called anthocyanins (which give it its red color), along with other polyphenols and organic acids. These act as antioxidants, meaning they may help protect cells from certain types of damage.

For blood pressure, researchers think hibiscus may work in a few ways: it may relax and widen blood vessels, and it may have a mild diuretic (water-releasing) effect. Some lab studies suggest it can affect enzymes involved in blood pressure control.

It is important to know that many of these mechanisms come from laboratory and animal research. How strongly they apply to people drinking hibiscus tea is not fully clear.

Effectiveness

Does Hibiscus Sabdariffa work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 12 uses evaluated
1 Possibly effective 11 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Possibly Effective Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral Hibiscus sabdariffa seems to lower blood pressure by a small amount in patients with mild to moderate hypertension.

Also studied for 11 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Constipation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dry mouth
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical Hibiscus sabdariffa has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dry skin
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for dry skin.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dyslipidemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for dyslipidemia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for kidney stones, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Metabolic syndrome
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Some small clinical studies suggest that oral Hibiscus sabdariffa may be beneficial for metabolic syndrome.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral Hibiscus sabdariffa has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for UTIs.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Wound healing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical Hibiscus sabdariffa for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this purpose.<p><p/>

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Hibiscus tea is widely consumed and is generally considered well tolerated in normal food and beverage amounts. Concentrated extracts and high-dose supplements are less studied, so use them with more caution.

People with low blood pressure or those taking medicines that lower blood pressure should be careful, since hibiscus may add to that effect. If you have liver or kidney problems, check with your doctor first.

Pregnancy: Avoid medicinal amounts of hibiscus during pregnancy. Some animal data and traditional use raise concerns about hormonal and uterine effects.

Breastfeeding: There is not enough safety information, so it is best to avoid concentrated hibiscus products while breastfeeding.

As with any supplement, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting hibiscus, especially if you have a medical condition or take prescription medicine.

Side effects

For most people, hibiscus tea causes few or no side effects. When side effects do happen, they are usually mild and may include:

  • Upset stomach or gas
  • A temporary feeling of lightheadedness (possibly from lowered blood pressure)
  • Increased need to urinate (mild diuretic effect)

Allergic reactions are possible but uncommon. Very large amounts of concentrated extracts have not been well studied, so stick to reasonable amounts and follow the product label.

Hibiscus Sabdariffa: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Hibiscus Sabdariffa from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Reports by condition
Cluster headache Neurologic/CNS

Orally, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 3 grams daily has been associated with one report of tremor and headache in one clinical trial.

  1. Hernandez-Perez, F. and Herrera-Arellano, A. [Therapeutic use Hibiscus sabadariffa extract in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A randomized clinical trial]. Rev.Med Inst.Mex.Seguro.Soc. 2011;49(5):469-480.
Constipation Gastrointestinal

Orally, taking a specific Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf extract (Green Chem) 1 gram daily has been associated with reports of transient gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal distention, flatulence, and epigastric pain in one clinical trial. However, the overall rate of these adverse effects was similar to placebo. Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 6 grams daily has been associated with single cases of nausea in one clinical trial. Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx powder 6 grams daily has been associated with reports of mild and transient constipation in one clinical trial. Taking 0.5-1 liters of tea daily, made by steeping 10-15 grams of dried Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces, has been associated with one report of stomach pain in one clinical trial.

  1. Kuriyan R, Kumar DR, Rajendran R, Kurpad AV. An evaluation of the hypolipidemic effect of an extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa leaves in hyperlipidemic Indians: a double blind, placebo controlled trial. BMC Complement Altern Med 2010;10:27.
  2. Hernandez-Perez, F. and Herrera-Arellano, A. [Therapeutic use Hibiscus sabadariffa extract in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A randomized clinical trial]. Rev.Med Inst.Mex.Seguro.Soc. 2011;49(5):469-480.
  3. Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, Ghannadi A, Soltani R, Badri S, Shirani S. Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa Calices on Dyslipidemia in Obese Adolescents: A Triple-masked Randomized Controlled Trial. Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-9.
  4. Al-Anbaki M, Nogueira RC, Cavin AL, et al. Treating uncontrolled hypertension with Hibiscus sabdariffa when standard treatment is insufficient: Pilot intervention. J Altern Complement Med. 2019;25(12):1200-1205.
Tinnitus Ocular/Otic

Orally, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 3 grams daily has been associated with one report of tinnitus in one clinical trial.

  1. Hernandez-Perez, F. and Herrera-Arellano, A. [Therapeutic use Hibiscus sabadariffa extract in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A randomized clinical trial]. Rev.Med Inst.Mex.Seguro.Soc. 2011;49(5):469-480.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no official standardized dose for hibiscus. In studies, people have used it as a tea made from dried calyces or as standardized extracts, but the amounts vary widely between products and studies.

If you use a supplement, follow the directions on the product label. For tea, the amount in a typical cup or two is generally considered reasonable for most healthy adults.

Because product strengths differ and hibiscus may affect blood pressure, it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist or doctor before using it regularly, especially at higher doses.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Hibiscus Sabdariffa & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally. Hibiscus sabdariffa is thought to be a menstrual stimulant, and might have abortifacient effects.

  1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.

Hibiscus Sabdariffa & Breastfeeding

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally in large amounts. Animal research found that administering large doses of Hibiscus sabdariffa during lactation decreases food and water intake during pregnancy and delays puberty in offspring; however, this has not been assessed in humans.

  1. Iyare EE, Adegoke OA. Maternal consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa during lactation accelerates postnatal weight and delays onset of puberty in female offspring. Niger J Physiol Sci. 2008 Jun-Dec;23(1-2):89-94.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 19 references that drive our Hibiscus Sabdariffa monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  2. Kolawole JA, Maduenyi A. Effect of zobo drink (Hibiscus sabdariffa water extract) on pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen in human volunteers. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2004;29:25-9.
  3. McKay DL, Chen CY, Saltzman E, Blumberg JB. Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. tea (tisane) lowers blood pressure in prehypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. J Nutr 2010;140:298-303. PubMed
  4. Kuriyan R, Kumar DR, Rajendran R, Kurpad AV. An evaluation of the hypolipidemic effect of an extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa leaves in hyperlipidemic Indians: a double blind, placebo controlled trial. BMC Complement Altern Med 2010;10:27. PubMed
  5. Haji, Faraji M. and Haji, Tarkhani A. The effect of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on essential hypertension. J.Ethnopharmacol. 1999;65(3):231-236. PubMed
  6. Mozaffari-Khosravi, H., Jalali-Khanabadi, B. A., Afkhami-Ardekani, M., Fatehi, F., and Noori-Shadkam, M. The effects of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on hypertension in patients with type II diabetes. J Hum.Hypertens 2009;23(1):48-54. PubMed
  7. Gurrola-Diaz, C. M., Garcia-Lopez, P. M., Sanchez-Enriquez, S., Troyo-Sanroman, R., Andrade-Gonzalez, I., and Gomez-Leyva, J. F. Effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract powder and preventive treatment (diet) on the lipid profiles of patients with metaboli
  8. Hernandez-Perez, F. and Herrera-Arellano, A. [Therapeutic use Hibiscus sabadariffa extract in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A randomized clinical trial]. Rev.Med Inst.Mex.Seguro.Soc. 2011;49(5):469-480.
  9. Mahmoud, B. M., Ali, H. M., Homeida, M. M., and Bennett, J. L. Significant reduction in chloroquine bioavailability following coadministration with the Sudanese beverages Aradaib, Karkadi and Lemon. J.Antimicrob.Chemother. 1994;33(5):1005-1009.
  10. Iyare EE, Adegoke OA. Maternal consumption of an aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa during lactation accelerates postnatal weight and delays onset of puberty in female offspring. Niger J Physiol Sci. 2008 Jun-Dec;23(1-2):89-94. PubMed
  11. Johnson SS, Oyelola FT, Ari T, Juho H. In vitro inhibitory activities of the extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (family Malvaceae) on selected cytochrome P450 isoforms. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013 Apr 12;10(3):533-40.
  12. Sabzghabaee AM, Ataei E, Kelishadi R, Ghannadi A, Soltani R, Badri S, Shirani S. Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa Calices on Dyslipidemia in Obese Adolescents: A Triple-masked Randomized Controlled Trial. Mater Sociomed. 2013;25(2):76-9. PubMed
  13. Showande SJ, Adegbolagun OM, Igbinoba SI, Fakeye TO. In vivo pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces extracts with simvastatin. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2017;42(6):695-703.
  14. Fakeye TO, Adegoke AO, Omoyeni OC, Famakinde AA. Effects of water extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa, Linn (Malvaceae) 'Roselle' on excretion of a diclofenac formulation. Phytother Res. 2007;21(1):96-8.
  15. Al-Anbaki M, Nogueira RC, Cavin AL, et al. Treating uncontrolled hypertension with Hibiscus sabdariffa when standard treatment is insufficient: Pilot intervention. J Altern Complement Med. 2019;25(12):1200-1205.
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Hibiscus Sabdariffa: Common Questions

What is Hibiscus Sabdariffa used for, and does it work?
People use Hibiscus Sabdariffa for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Hibiscus Sabdariffa for Hypertension. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Hibiscus Sabdariffa interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 1089 medications with a known interaction with Hibiscus Sabdariffa, including 2 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Hibiscus Sabdariffa interacts with a specific drug.
How are Hibiscus Sabdariffa interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Hibiscus Sabdariffa with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Hibiscus Sabdariffa interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Hibiscus Sabdariffa used for?
People most commonly use it as a tart, refreshing tea. Its best-studied potential benefit is mildly lowering blood pressure, though it is also used traditionally for digestion, fever, and general wellness.
Does hibiscus tea really lower blood pressure?
Some small studies suggest hibiscus may cause a modest drop in blood pressure in people with mild hypertension. The effect is small, and it should not replace prescribed blood pressure medicine.
Is hibiscus safe to drink every day?
Hibiscus tea is generally well tolerated in normal beverage amounts for most healthy adults. If you have low blood pressure, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Can I take hibiscus during pregnancy?
It is best to avoid medicinal or concentrated amounts of hibiscus during pregnancy due to concerns about possible hormonal and uterine effects.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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