Black Tea and Blood Pressure: Health Benefits & Safety

EatingWell • March 4, 2026 • health

Key Points:

Nearly half of the U.S. population has high blood pressure, and consuming 2 cups of unsweetened black tea daily may reduce coronary heart disease risk by 14% by supporting healthy blood pressure.
Black tea's polyphenols can improve blood vessel health by enhancing endothelial cell function and lowering harmful LDL cholesterol, potentially preventing artery thickening.
The catechins in black tea may reduce inflammation markers like C-reactive protein, which is linked to chronic diseases including hypertension.
Despite containing caffeine, black tea may protect against hypertension by inhibiting renin production, an enzyme that raises blood pressure; drinking it black maximizes these benefits.
Other beverages beneficial for blood pressure include black coffee (in moderation), green tea, beet juice