Hibiscus tea vs green tea: Which has more antioxidants and is healthier
Hibiscus and green tea, both celebrated for their health benefits, offer unique advantages. Green tea, rich in catechins, excels in promoting general wellness, metabolic function, and cognitive clarity, while hibiscus tea shines in managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Choosing between them depends on individual health goals, as both are suitable for daily consumption.
They say there's nothing a cup of tea can't fix, and it's true to some extent, especially when the tea in question is hibiscus tea or green tea. Both hailed as healthy beverages, hibiscus tea and green tea are known for their vibrant flavours and various health benefits.
But which one is better? Hibiscus tea or green tea, when it comes to antioxidants and other benefits. Let's take a look.
Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea is made from the bright coloured flowers of the hibiscus plant. The Hibiscus genus encompasses a wide variety of flowers, with blooms that differ in size and color. Some are red-orange, pink, yellow, and even white. Dried blooms are used in tea. The Roselle variety, or Hibiscus sabdariffa, is also used to make tea.
It has antispastic, diuretic, and antifebrile properties, and hence the blooms are used to make tea, and the leaves are edible, with their sepals rich in organic acids, sugars, vitamins, and nutrients.
Hibiscus is rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids. Research shows that hibiscus has a total phenolic content ranging from 6-20 mg/g, with anthocyanins contributing to its vibrant red hue and antioxidant capacity. A 2020
study
found that hibiscus can improve the immune response and reduce inflammation in rainbow trout, thus supporting the health of the fish after it is exposed to the toxic influence of ammonia.
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Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, compounds that combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
A 2016
study
in people with Marfan syndrome, a disorder that affects connective tissue, found that an infusion of hibiscus extract reduced oxidative stress and increased antioxidant levels in the blood.
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Hibiscus tea has shown promise in managing blood pressure and cholesterol.
It also reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Its diuretic properties may also support kidney health.
Green tea
Green tea has long been known to have health benefits. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. These leaves are harvested, then steamed, pan-fried, or heated in a unique way to stop oxidation. Its rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Studies indicate green tea contains 20-45% polyphenols by weight, with EGCG being a potent antioxidant linked to anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
The catechins in green tea are linked to improved cardiovascular health, weight management, and cognitive function. A 2020
review
of 11 studies found that green tea can help reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and belly fat in people with type 2 diabetes.
A 2022
study
in people with a cluster of heart disease risk factors has shown that consuming green tea extract for four weeks can reduce blood sugar levels and improve gut health by lowering inflammation and decreasing leaky gut.
Green tea is also linked with reduced LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. The L-theanine in green tea promotes relaxation without drowsiness, and also supports mental clarity.
Which is better?
The healthier choice really depends on individual needs. Green tea is known to have a broader antioxidant profile and bioavailability compared to Hibiscus tea. It is often useful for general wellness, particularly for metabolic and cognitive benefits. Green tea also has anti-cancer properties. Hibiscus tea, on the other hand, may be best to target blood pressure or cholesterol management. As both of them are low-calorie, caffeine-free (hibiscus) or low-caffeine (green tea) options, it's suitable for daily consumption.
NB: This information is based on internet research and is intended for general knowledge only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.
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