Hibiscus tea for colds: effects & studies
1. Introduction: Does hibiscus tea help with colds?
Hibiscus tea is not only refreshing and fruity, but also a real home remedy for colds . Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, hibiscus tea can strengthen your immune system and help relieve coughs , sore throats , and chesty airways . Especially at the first signs of a cold, hibiscus tea can provide relief right from the start thanks to its expectorant, antibacterial , and antiviral effects .
The rich polyphenols and vitamin C in hibiscus have an expectorant effect and help clear the airways . But how exactly does hibiscus tea help your body fight a cold? And what scientific studies support its effectiveness?
In this article, you'll learn all about the effects of hibiscus tea on colds , how it supports your immune system , and which studies confirm its positive effects. We'll also present you with a simple yet effective recipe for hibiscus tea for colds .
A comprehensive overview article on hibiscus, its effects, side effects and preparation including links to detailed articles can be found HERE .
Table of contents
- Introduction: Hibiscus tea for colds
- How hibiscus tea can support the immune system
- Expectorant effect of hibiscus tea
- Studies: How hibiscus tea can help with colds
- How to use hibiscus tea for colds
- Can hibiscus tea help with coughs and sore throats?
- Conclusion: Hibiscus tea as natural support for colds
2. Hibiscus Tea & Immune System: Why it is so valuable
A strong immune system is essential for fighting off colds. Hibiscus tea provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants and vitamin C , which naturally support your immune system.
Hibiscus flowers are rich in vitamin C , which is known to boost the body's immune system. They also contain flavonoids and phenolic acids , which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties . This combination can help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body .
A study from Tufts University in Boston showed that regular consumption of hibiscus tea can lower systolic blood pressure , which indirectly relieves strain on the cardiovascular system and thus supports the immune system. In the study, subjects with slightly elevated blood pressure drank three cups of hibiscus tea daily for six weeks, which led to a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure .
You can learn more about hibiscus and its effect on blood pressure in our detailed article: Hibiscus tea & blood pressure: Naturally lowers blood pressure?
Additionally, laboratory studies suggest that hibiscus extracts possess antibacterial properties that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria . Hibiscus extracts are therefore also used in natural remedies for treating bladder infections .
In summary: Regular consumption of hibiscus tea can, due to its valuable ingredients and associated effects, help strengthen the immune system and support the body in fighting off colds.
3. Expectorant effect of hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea is also known for its potential expectorant properties . The phytochemicals contained in hibiscus flowers , particularly fruit acids such as hibiscus acid, can help loosen trapped mucus in the respiratory tract and facilitate coughing. This effect makes hibiscus tea a popular home remedy for colds and coughs.
In addition, hibiscus tea supports the immune system due to its high content of vitamin C and antioxidants , which can promote recovery from respiratory infections .
4. Studies: How hibiscus tea can help with colds
Hibiscus tea has traditionally been used for many health benefits, including high blood pressure , weight loss , and even for the relief of cold symptoms . Reasons for this include:
- Antioxidant properties: Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids, which can boost the immune system . These ingredients support the body in neutralizing free radicals and improving defenses.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Some laboratory studies indicate that hibiscus extracts have anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in relieving cold symptoms .
Two studies are particularly interesting here:
- Antiviral activity against influenza A virus (IAV) : A study titled "Antiviral Activities of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Tea Extract Against Human Influenza A Virus Rely Largely on Acidic pH but Partially on a Low-pH-Independent Mechanism" investigated the effect of hibiscus tea extract on the influenza A virus. The research showed that hibiscus possesses rapid and potent antiviral activity against IAV . These findings suggest that hibiscus tea may be potentially helpful in combating influenza infections .
- Antiviral effect on avian influenza viruses : Another study titled "High Antiviral Effects of Hibiscus Tea Extract on the H5 Subtypes of Low and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses" investigated the antiviral properties of hibiscus tea extract against various H5 subtypes of avian influenza. The results showed that hibiscus extract significantly reduced the viral load in both low- and highly pathogenic strains. This also demonstrates the natural antiviral properties of hibiscus.
Hibiscus has been used as a medicinal plant by indigenous peoples all over the world for thousands of years , and science is also slowly gaining insight into its medicinal properties.
5. How to use hibiscus tea for colds
To reap the potential health benefits of hibiscus tea, proper use is crucial. Hibiscus tea can be consumed hot or cold, with warm tea being particularly soothing for cold symptoms. It helps hydrate the body, support the immune system, and soothe sore throats.
- Preparation: For optimal results, we recommend an infusion of dried hibiscus flowers . Pour one to two teaspoons of flowers into 250-400 ml of hot water and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes .
- Combination with other herbs: To enhance the effect, hibiscus tea can be combined with ginger , lemongrass , oranges or honey.
- How often should you drink it? 2–3 cups daily can help support the immune system and relieve cold symptoms.
- Precautions: Pregnant women and people with low blood pressure should be careful.
Hibiscus tea can be a soothing remedy for colds. Ginger and lemongrass are also incredibly effective against colds. You can find more information in the following articles:
- Lemongrass tea: effects, healing effects, psyche and side effects
- Ginger – effects, benefits & side effects at a glance
6. Can hibiscus tea help with coughs and sore throats?
Thanks to its high content of vitamin C, antioxidants , and organic acids, the tea can help soothe irritated mucous membranes and moisten the throat.
- Irritation relief: The mucilage contained in hibiscus forms a protective layer on the irritated mucous membrane in the throat.
- Antiviral effect: Initial laboratory studies show that hibiscus extracts can inhibit the growth of certain viruses.
- Mucus loosening: The fruit acids contained can help loosen stuck mucus and make coughing easier.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Polyphenols and anthocyanins in hibiscus flowers may have anti-inflammatory properties and thus relieve symptoms.
For the best results, combine the tea with honey or lemon juice. These ingredients have additional antibacterial and soothing effects.
7. Conclusion: Hibiscus tea as natural support for colds
Hibiscus tea is not only a refreshing drink, but can also provide valuable support for the immune system during a cold. Thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants , expectorant , and antiviral properties , it can help relieve cold symptoms .
The tea is particularly beneficial when combined with other natural ingredients such as ginger , lemongrass , orange , or honey. These combinations can further enhance its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties .
Despite its numerous benefits, people with low blood pressure , pregnant women , or those taking medication should approach consumption slowly. You can find more on this topic in our articles "Hibiscus Tea During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding" and "Hibiscus Tea & Blood Pressure: Naturally Lowers Blood Pressure? "
People with histamine intolerance should also consume hibiscus tea only in moderation or slowly get used to increasing amounts.
Hibiscus tea can therefore be a useful supplement for colds to relieve symptoms and help you get fit again quickly.
