Dried hibiscus calyces brewed as tea. Clinical trials: 3 cups daily reduces systolic BP by 7 mmHg — comparable to a low-dose ACE inhibitor. The anthocyanins are the active compounds.
Already familiar to most Black Americans with Caribbean heritage as sorrel punch. Familiar in Nigerian households as zobo. The bridge from cultural drink to clinical protocol requires only naming the mechanism.
Multiple RCTs on Black adults with hypertension: 7-8 mmHg systolic reduction with 3 cups daily. Hibiscus inhibits the same enzyme that ACE inhibitor medications target. Reduces LDL and triglycerides. Acidifies urine to prevent UTIs.
Steep 2-3 tbsp dried hibiscus flowers in 2 cups hot water for 5-10 minutes. Sweeten lightly with honey. 3 cups (24oz) daily is the clinically studied amount. Available at African stores as zobo/bissap, Caribbean stores as sorrel, mainstream stores as hibiscus tea.
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