Also Known As – Hibiscus sabdariffa, Roselle, red sorrel, African Mallow, Indian Sorrel, Jamaica Sorrel, and Jamaica Tea Flower.
Overview - Hibiscus is a large genus of flowering plants, growing primarily in tropical and subtropical regions, whose flowers are used for a wide range of medicinal purposes and edible products ranging from making jams and jellies to lowering blood pressure, aiding in weight loss, reducing cholesterol and, in some cases, treating cancer. Flowers from the Hibiscus sabdariffa are generally consumed by brewing a medicinal tea or eaten in salads. Like many herbal preparations, however, healing properties and potentially hazardous side effects are associated with the consumption of the plant. Certain precautions should be taken.
Medicinal Uses – Hibiscus flowers, roots and leaves, are anodyne and emmenagogue. They regulate menstruation and stimulate blood circulation. Flower extract has been traditionally used for liver disorders, high blood pressure and as an aphrodisiac. Young leaves and flowers are used in case of headache. Decoction of leaves, root and flower are helpful in treatments of arthritis, boils and coughs, and the flower is used externally in cases of sprains, wounds and ulcers. Hibiscus tea is rich in Vitamin C.
Other Uses – In foods and beverages, hibiscus is used as a flavoring. It is also used to improve the odor, flavor, or appearance of tea mixtures.
Herbs to Combine/Supplement - Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.
Parts Used - The flower, dried, cut, and powdered.
Precautions - This herb should not be used by pregnant women.
Suggested Preparation and Dosage - To harvest hibiscus calyxes for tea, simply snap off the calyxes with your hands when they are fully grown, but still tender. Use clippers to harvest hardened stems. Hibiscus is available as a bulk tea and in tea bags, as well as an ingredient in tea mixtures. Add 1 teaspoon dried flowers to 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes, and enjoy.
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