Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Hibiscus sabdariffa in Hypertension Management

Abstract

This study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes existing evidence on the efficacy of Hibiscus sabdariffa in managing high blood pressure. A comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, identified randomized controlled trials and observational studies published between 2010 and 2024. The included studies were evaluated for quality using established criteria, and data were synthesized through meta-analysis using RevMan software. The analysis demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in individuals treated with Hibiscus sabdariffa extracts compared to placebo. These findings suggest that Hibiscus sabdariffa may serve as an effective adjunctive therapy for hypertension management, highlighting its potential as a natural, non-pharmacological option for controlling blood pressure. However, the review emphasizes the need for further research to determine the long-term effects, optimal dosages, and standardization of Hibiscus sabdariffa extracts to ensure consistent clinical outcomes. Future studies should prioritize well-designed, large-scale randomized trials across diverse populations to validate these findings and establish evidence-based treatment guidelines. Additionally, further investigation into the herb's mechanism of action, safety profile, and potential interactions with other antihypertensive medications is critical. This review offers valuable insights into the potential use of Hibiscus sabdariffa as a complementary approach to hypertension treatment while underscoring the importance of advancing research in this area.