Hibiscus Tea & Depression

Hibiscus Tea & Depression
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Hibiscus tea, also known as sour tea, is an acidic herbal beverage that is sometimes used for medicinal purposes, including heart conditions. Hibiscus tea has not been shown to have any effect on depression. Depression is a serious medical condition related to brain function. It can be caused by a combination of biological and situational factors. Treating depression requires the care of a doctor; do not use herbs to treat depression. Take hibiscus tea or other herbs only under a doctor's supervision.

Depression

Depression is a severe medical illness characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, weight change, energy loss, sleeping problems and preoccupation with death. If you suffer from depression, seek medical treatment immediately. Hibiscus tea may be pleasurable, but is not an effective remedy for this brain disorder.

Hibiscus Tea

The hibiscus used in hibiscus tea, also known as sour tea or red sorrel, is cultivated in tropical countries, including Sudan, China, Mexico, Egypt and Thailand. Other names for hibiscus tea include ambary, burao, chemparathampoo, erragogu, esculetin, gogu karkadi, karkada, karkade, kenaf, roselle, tellagogu and zobo drink. The use of hibiscus tea for medicinal purposes is documented in ancient Indian scriptures.

Myths and Facts

Some people find the acidic taste of hibiscus tea pleasing, but there is no evidence to support its use in managing symptoms of depression. Hibiscus tea is a folk remedy for high blood pressure, liver disease and fever. There is not sufficient evidence to support its effectiveness in treating those conditions. However, there is evidence to support its use in combating congestive heart failure, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Take hibiscus tea for medicinal purposes only under a doctor's supervision.

Herbs for Depression

St. John's wort is an herb that has been shown to reduce symptoms of mild to moderate depression. It is unclear how effective it is in managing more serious depression. Talk to your doctor before taking St. John's wort to deal with depressive symptoms.

References

Article reviewed by J. Betherman Last updated on: Jul 12, 2011

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