Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) has a long history of use in traditional medicine across various cultures in Asia, including Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. In these traditions, different parts of the plant, particularly the flowers and leaves, have been used for their purported diuretic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. For urinary tract infections (UTIs), hibiscus preparations have historically been used to promote urination and as a mild antimicrobial agent to help "cleanse" the urinary tract. However, the evidence supporting these uses is largely anecdotal or based on traditional knowledge rather than rigorous scientific research.

There are a limited number of laboratory and animal studies suggesting that certain Hibiscus species (especially Hibiscus sabdariffa, not H. rosa-sinensis) may have antimicrobial effects against some urinary pathogens or may increase urine output. However, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically examining Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Chinese hibiscus) for the prevention or treatment of UTIs in humans. Most of the available evidence comes from traditional use, with only indirect or limited scientific support. Therefore, while Chinese hibiscus is used traditionally for urinary problems, its efficacy for urinary tract infections is not well established by modern clinical research.