How Much Hibiscus Tea is Safe to Drink Per Day?

January 10, 2026 •

3 min read

Did you know the U.S. FDA recognizes hibiscus as generally safe in food amounts? This guide will explain how much hibiscus tea is safe to drink per day, helping people enjoy its potential benefits responsibly.

Quick Summary

Generally, a safe daily limit for hibiscus tea is considered to be 2 to 4 cups (up to 720 mL), but pregnant women and those on certain medications should exercise caution.

Key Points

Moderate Intake: A safe daily intake is generally considered 2 to 4 cups (up to 720 mL) for most healthy adults.
Short-Term Studies: Clinical trials have safely used up to 720 mL daily for periods up to six weeks, but long-term data on higher doses is lacking.
Blood Pressure Effect: Hibiscus tea can lower blood pressure, so individuals with hypotension or those on blood pressure medication should be cautious.
Avoid During Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Pregnant women should avoid hibiscus tea due to its potential emmenagogue effects, and nursing mothers should also exercise caution.
Medication Interactions: Hibiscus can interact with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain diuretics. Always consult a doctor if you are on medication.
Rare Side Effects: Excessive intake can cause mild side effects like stomach upset, gas, or dizziness, especially in sensitive individuals.

Determining a Safe Daily Intake

For many healthy adults, moderate consumption of hibiscus tea is considered safe and is often enjoyed for its tart flavor and potential health benefits. Clinical studies have explored the effects of specific dosages, providing a foundation for general recommendations.

Clinical Evidence on Hibiscus Tea Dosage

Several sources cite clinical trials where participants safely consumed up to 720 mL (approximately 3 cups) of hibiscus tea daily for a period of up to six weeks. This duration and dosage is often cited as a benchmark for short-term medicinal use, particularly for conditions like high blood pressure.

For general, long-term consumption, a more conservative approach is recommended. Many health experts suggest limiting daily intake to 2 to 3 cups. This helps to minimize the potential for side effects and any complications, especially given the lack of long-term safety data for daily use over extended periods.

Understanding the Bioactive Compounds

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) contains several bioactive compounds, including anthocyanins and flavonoids, which contribute to its effects on blood pressure and its antioxidant properties. However, these same compounds are responsible for potential side effects when consumed in excess. For instance, very high doses of hibiscus extract have shown signs of potential liver toxicity in animal studies, though this is unlikely with standard tea consumption.

Potential Side Effects and Contraindications

While moderate intake is safe for most, excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects and may interact with certain medications.

Side Effects of Overconsumption

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Hibiscus is known to lower blood pressure. For individuals with already low blood pressure, excessive intake can cause dizziness and fainting.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people may experience stomach upset, gas, or constipation, especially with higher doses.
Interference with Medications: Hibiscus can interact with certain medications, including those for high blood pressure (antihypertensives), diabetes (antidiabetes drugs), and diuretics. This can cause blood pressure or blood sugar levels to drop too low.

High-Risk Groups to Exercise Caution

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Due to its emmenagogue effects (potentially stimulating menstruation), pregnant women should avoid hibiscus tea to prevent complications. Nursing mothers are also advised to avoid it due to unknown effects on infants.
Individuals Undergoing Surgery: Hibiscus can affect blood sugar levels, making it harder to control during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop consumption at least two weeks prior to a scheduled procedure.
People with Diabetes or Hypertension: Those taking medication for blood pressure or blood sugar should consult a healthcare provider before consuming hibiscus tea regularly to avoid dangerous interactions.

A Comparison of Moderate vs. Excessive Hibiscus Tea Intake


Feature	Moderate Intake (approx. 2-3 cups/day)	Excessive Intake (6+ cups/day)
Potential Benefits	Antioxidant support, modest blood pressure reduction.	No evidence of increased benefits, risks of side effects outweigh gains.
Risks/Side Effects	Generally minimal or rare side effects.	Increased risk of low blood pressure, dizziness, stomach upset, and potential drug interactions.
Duration of Use	Considered safe for regular, daily consumption for most healthy adults.	Prolonged high-dose use carries potential for liver concerns and other negative effects.
Who Can Drink	Most healthy adults.	Not recommended, especially for individuals with low blood pressure or on certain medications.

Tips for Safe Hibiscus Tea Consumption

Start Small: Begin with a single cup to see how your body reacts before increasing your intake.
Monitor Your Body: Pay close attention to any changes, especially if you are taking medication for blood pressure or diabetes.
Use High-Quality Tea: Source your tea from reputable suppliers to ensure purity and reduce the risk of contaminants.
Consult a Professional: If you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or taking medication, always speak with a doctor or registered dietitian before incorporating hibiscus tea into your daily routine.

Conclusion: The Key is Moderation

Hibiscus tea can be a flavorful and beneficial addition to your daily routine, offering antioxidant and blood pressure-lowering properties. However, the key to safe consumption lies in moderation. Sticking to the recommended dosage of 2 to 4 cups per day is wise, especially for long-term use. Remember to be mindful of potential side effects and contraindications, particularly if you belong to a high-risk group or are taking prescription medications. By being informed, you can enjoy the delicious taste of hibiscus tea while prioritizing your health.

For more information on the potential interactions and side effects of herbal supplements, consult with a healthcare professional or reliable sources like WebMD.(https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-211/hibiscus-sabdariffa)

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for most healthy individuals, it is generally considered safe to drink 2 to 3 cups of hibiscus tea daily. However, there is limited research on the long-term effects of consuming it daily over several months or years.

Clinical studies have used dosages of up to 720 mL (approximately 3 cups) daily for up to six weeks with minimal side effects. Experts suggest a general limit of 2 to 4 cups daily for most adults.

Excessive consumption of hibiscus tea may lead to side effects such as temporary dizziness or fatigue due to lowered blood pressure, as well as gastrointestinal issues like stomach upset, gas, or constipation.

Hibiscus tea should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Individuals with low blood pressure, those with diabetes or hypertension on medication, and people scheduled for surgery should also use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

Yes, hibiscus tea can interact with medications for high blood pressure (like ACE inhibitors), diabetes, diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), and some anti-malaria drugs. Always speak with your doctor about potential interactions.

No, pregnant women should avoid hibiscus tea. The tea has emmenagogue effects, which means it can stimulate menstrual flow and may potentially increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.

While extremely high doses of hibiscus extract have been linked to potential liver toxicity in animal studies, it is unlikely that moderate consumption of hibiscus tea would cause liver damage in humans.