By: Favour Okere. Freelance Health Writer and Datelinehealth Africa (DLHA) volunteer. Medical review and editorial support provided by the DLHA Team
A seated pregnant woman drinking from a bottle with a half-filled cup of hibiscus tea and hibiscus flower shown on the side.
Seated pregnant woman image from Freepik
Introduction
Pregnancy is a refreshing but delicate phase in women's lives. It comes with many new body experiences and lifestyle adjustments. Expectant mothers are often told what to eat and avoid, to exercise moderately, to reduce stress levels, and to avoid smoking.
While some believe that expectant mothers can enjoy hibiscus tea, popularly known as zobo drink or sobo drink in many African countries, others have raised concerns about its safety during pregnancy. This article will explore the debate surrounding the consumption of hibiscus tea (zobo drink) during pregnancy and highlight the potential benefits and risks associated with consuming it.
Hibiscus tea, is a tart, sweet, ruby-red beverage made by steeping the dried calyces (sepals) of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant in hot water. This plant is native to tropical regions. Africa is cut almost equally in two by the Equator, so that most of the region lies within the tropical area, bounded on the north by the Tropic of Cancer and on the south by the Tropic of Capricorn.[1]
The Hibiscus sabdariffa plant is widely cultivated within the region because of its edible flowers. Zobo drink has a cranberry-like flavor and is often sweetened with sugar or other natural sweeteners.
Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and various antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which contributes to its reddish color. Some potential benefits associated with consuming Hibiscus tea include:
Studies have suggested that Hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure in individuals with mild to moderate hypertension. [2] This effect is attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds like anthocyanins and polyphenols, which may have vasodilatory effects on blood vessels, promoting better blood flow and reducing strain on the cardiovascular system. [3]
Hibiscus tea has been investigated for its potential to improve cholesterol levels. Research indicates that regular consumption of Hibiscus tea may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels, thereby promoting a healthier lipid profile and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. [4]
Hibiscus tea (zobo drink) is believed to have a modest effect in aiding weight loss efforts by promoting satiety and reducing calorie intake. This is potentially due to its high fiber content and the presence of certain compounds that may influence metabolism and fat oxidation. [5]
Hibiscus tea contains various antioxidants and plant compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These properties have been studied for their potential applications in the management of certain inflammatory conditions and bacterial or fungal infections. [6]
This myth suggests that consuming Hibiscus tea during pregnancy may stimulate uterine contractions and potentially lead to premature labor or miscarriage. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support this claim.
Another myth suggests that consuming Hibiscus tea during pregnancy may increase the risk of excessive bleeding, either during the pregnancy or during labor and delivery. Again, there is no substantial research to validate this claim.
Similar to the labor induction myth, some believe that consuming Hibiscus tea during pregnancy may trigger uterine contractions, potentially harming the developing fetus. However, there is a lack of comprehensive scientific research to support this claim.
The safety of consuming hibiscus tea (zobo drink) during pregnancy is a topic of ongoing debate, with conflicting evidence. Its safety during pregnancy has not been conclusively established through large-scale clinical trials.
Some healthcare professionals advise against consuming hibiscus tea or any other herbal teas during pregnancy, citing the potential risks associated with the unknown safety profiles of these products. They argue that the lack of regulation and standardization in the production of herbal teas may lead to variations in their composition and potential contaminants, which could pose risks to the developing fetus. [7]
On the other hand, some experts suggest that moderate consumption of Hibiscus tea during pregnancy is unlikely to cause harm, as long as it is consumed in moderation and obtained from reputable sources. They argue that the potential benefits of Hibiscus tea, such as its antioxidant properties and potential to support healthy blood pressure levels, may outweigh the unverified risks. [8]
Hibiscus tea has been consumed for centuries in various cultures but its safety during pregnancy has not been conclusively established through large-scale clinical trials. As a precautionary measure, many healthcare professionals recommend avoiding or limiting the consumption of Hibiscus tea and other herbal teas during pregnancy, unless explicitly approved by a qualified healthcare provider. [9]
Other herbal teas that are generally recommended to be avoided during pregnancy include:
Beverages like black tea, green tea, and mate tea contain varying levels of caffeine, which can cross the placental barrier and potentially affect the developing fetus. Excessive caffeine consumption during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes. [10]
Certain herbal teas, such as raspberry leaf tea and cohosh, are believed to have uterine stimulating properties, which could potentially increase the risk of preterm labor or miscarriage. These teas are often advised to be avoided during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy and consumed with caution, if at all, during the third trimester.
3. Teas with laxative effects
Some herbal teas, like senna tea, have natural laxative properties that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if consumed excessively during pregnancy. [11] Dehydration and electrolyte disturbances can potentially harm the developing fetus and should be avoided. [12]
4. Teas with potential toxicity or unknown safety profiles
Herbal teas containing ingredients like licorice root, ephedra, or other herbs with potentially toxic effects or unknown safety profiles during pregnancy should be avoided altogether. The lack of comprehensive research on the effects of these herbs on the developing fetus raises concerns about their potential risks.
Expectant mothers should prioritize their well-being and that of their developing babies. While some herbal teas may offer potential benefits, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare professionals and follow their recommendations to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may recommend specific guidelines or restrictions based on individual circumstances, such as the stage of pregnancy, pre-existing medical conditions, or potential interactions with other medications or supplements. They may advise on reputable sources for obtaining high-quality herbal teas, as well as appropriate dosages and preparations to ensure safety.
Also, the effects of herbal teas can vary from person to person, and what may be considered safe for one individual may not necessarily be safe for another. Factors such as genetic makeup, metabolism, and overall health status can influence how the body responds to various compounds present in herbal teas.
While Hibiscus tea (Zobo drink) has been consumed for centuries and may offer potential health benefits, its safety during pregnancy remains a topic of ongoing discussion and debate.
Until more comprehensive research is conducted and conclusive evidence is available, many healthcare professionals recommend exercising caution and consulting with qualified professionals before consuming Hibiscus tea or any other herbal teas during pregnancy. The well-being of the expectant mother and the developing fetus should always be the top priority.
References:
1. Steel RW, Middleton JFM, Gardiner RKA, Mabogunje AL, Kröner A, McMaster DN, Nicol DSHW. , Smedley A, Clarke JI, Dickson KB. "Africa". Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 May. 2024, Available from: https://www.britannica.com/place/Africa. Accessed 23 May 2024.
2. Jalalyazdi M, Ramezani J, Izadi-Moud A, Madani-Sani F, Shahlaei S, Ghiasi SS. Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2019 Jul-Sep;10(3):107-111. doi: 10.4103/japtr.JAPTR_402_18. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6621350/
3. Allison LH, Marnie GL, Janet LF, Cheryl R. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in the treatment of hypertension and hyperlipidemia: A comprehensive review of animal and human studies. Fitoterapia, Vol. 85, 2013, pp, 84-94, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2013.01.003. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0367326X13000063.
4. Edo GI, Samuel PO, Jikah AN, Oloni GO, Ifejika MN, Oghenegueke O, Ossai S, Ajokpaoghene MO, Asaah EU, Uloho PO, Akpoghelie PO, Ugbune U, Ezekiel GO, Onoharigho FO, Agbo JJ, Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghah AEA. Proximate composition and health benefit of Roselle leaf (Hibiscus sabdariffa). Insight on food and health benefits, Food Chemistry Advances. Vol. 3, 2023,100437, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.focha.2023.100437. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772753X23002587.
5. Ajmera, R. 8 Benefits of Hibiscus. Healthline. [Internet. Last updated 2023 March 6] Retrieved May 2024 May 22 from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hibiscus-tea-benefits.
6. Idowu-Adebayo F, Toohey MJ, Fogliano V, Linnemann AR. Enriching Street-Vended Zobo ( Hibiscus Sabdariffa ) Drink with Turmeric ( Curcuma Longa ) to Increase Its Health-Supporting Properties. Food & Function, vol. 12, no. 2, 2021, pp. 761–70. https://doi.org/10.1039/D0FO02888F. Available from: https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2021/fo/d0fo02888f.
7. George, G. Why Pregnant Women Should Avoid Zobo. Punch Newspapers [Internet. 2024 April 7] Accessed May 22, 2024. Available from: https://punchng.com/why-pregnant-women-should-avoid-zobo/.
8. Adejoro L. Zobo Drink Not Dangerous, Can Be Consumed by Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers –Experts. Punch Newspapers. [Internet. 3 Apr. 2022]. Available from: https://punchng.com/zobo-drink-not-dangerous-can-be-consumed-by-pregnant-women-nursing-mothers-experts/.
9. Enwerem N, Amos S, Azuine M. Hibiscus sabdariffa l: safety and efficacy during pregnancy and lactation. Nurse Care Open Acces J. 2016;1(4):69-73. DOI: 10.15406/ncoaj.2016.01.00019. Available from: https://medcraveonline.com/NCOAJ/hibiscus-sabdariffa-l-safety-and-efficacy-during-pregnancy-and-lactation.html.
10. Petre A. Is Tea Safe During Pregnancy? Healthline. [Internet. 5 Jan. 2024]. Accessed May 23 2024. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-tea-safe-during-pregnancy.
11. WebMd. SENNA: Uses, Side Effects, and More. [Intermet. N.d.] Accessed 23 May 2024. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-652/senna..
12. NHS.UK. Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Fertility While Taking Senna. [Internet. Last reviewed 2 Feb. 2022]. Accessed 23 May 2024. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/senna/pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-fertility-while-taking-senna/.
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