High in anti-oxidants, the tea is thought to act through its ability to destroy free-radicals; molecules associated with both cancer and heart disease.
Diane McKay, presenting the research at the AHA's annual conference, described how at-risk patients had a drop of 7.2% in their blood pressure on average; contrasted to the placebo drink which resulted in just 1.3% reduction.
Vincent Murphy, writing for Heartzine, suggests that "although the health benefits of Hibiscus Tea are clearly demonstrated in this study, it is unclear whether the body will desensitise itself to the effects over a longer period of time".
