Hibiscus

Latin Name: Hibiscus sabdariffa
Common Name: Hibiscus, Roselle, Sudanese tea, Red tea, Jamaica sorrel
Family: Malvaceae
Parts Used: Calyces (the outermost whorl of the flower)

Botanical Description:
Hibiscus sabdariffa is an erect shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall. The plant produces large, showy flowers that range in color from yellow to white with a reddish-purple center. These flowers can be up to 4 inches in diameter. Once the flowers bloom, the calyces (the sepals surrounding the flowers) develop into fleshy, fruit-like structures, which are harvested for their medicinal use. The calyx contains a light green to brown ovoid fruit as it matures. Hibiscus has palmate leaves with 3-7 lobes, arranged alternately on reddish, branching stems. The plant grows from a long taproot, and it is cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Key Constituents:
Hibiscus is rich in beneficial compounds. Its key constituents include:

• Vitamin C, essential for immune function
• Plant acids such as oxalic, malic, hibiscic, and citric acids, which provide its tart flavor
• Anthocyanins, which give the calyces their deep red color and act as powerful antioxidants
• Mucilaginous polysaccharides, which have soothing properties
• Anti-inflammatory polyphenols
• Flavonoids
• Essential minerals like iron, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, sodium, and potassium

Sustainability Issues:
There are no known sustainability issues associated with hibiscus cultivation.

Harvesting Guidelines:
The calyces are harvested after the flowers bloom and the petals fall off. The calyces should be thick and fleshy before harvesting, either to be used fresh or dried for later use.

Traditional Benefits:
Hibiscus has a long history of use across various cultures, valued for its cooling, soothing, and therapeutic qualities. Its traditional uses include:

1. Cooling and Refreshing: Hibiscus is often consumed as a refreshing beverage that helps regulate body temperature, especially in hot climates. It is widely consumed as a tea in many cultures, such as “agua de Jamaica” in Latin America, “karkade” in North Africa, and “sorrel” in the Caribbean.
2. Cardiovascular Health: Hibiscus is renowned for its ability to support cardiovascular health. It has been traditionally used to help regulate blood pressure, both high and low, as well as to improve cholesterol levels. Hibiscus tea has shown promise in clinical studies for lowering blood pressure and improving lipid profiles, making it a valuable ally for those at risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Digestive and Urinary Health: Traditionally, hibiscus is used to support the digestive and urinary systems. Its diuretic properties help to prevent water retention and promote the elimination of waste products, including uric acid, which can reduce the risk of kidney stones and gout. Hibiscus has also been used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), thanks to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
4. Immune Support: Hibiscus is packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which protect cells from oxidative damage. The high vitamin C content further boosts its ability to strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and colds.
5. Reproductive Health: Hibiscus is considered a reproductive tonic due to its ability to balance hormones. It has been traditionally used to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce excessive bleeding, and alleviate menstrual cramps. Its cooling and astringent properties are also helpful for reducing inflammation in the reproductive organs.
6. Respiratory Health: Hibiscus’ cooling and anti-inflammatory effects extend to the respiratory system. It has been used traditionally to treat colds, respiratory congestion, and sore throats. Its ability to help clear mucus from the respiratory tract makes it an effective remedy for conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
7. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: The anthocyanins and flavonoids in hibiscus provide potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This is beneficial for overall health, including the prevention of chronic diseases.

Energetics:
Hibiscus is considered energetically cooling and drying. It has a sour, slightly astringent taste, which matches its cooling nature. It is often used to calm overheated states in the body, such as inflammation, fever, or digestive upset.

Modern Uses:
Today, hibiscus is widely used as a flavorful and health-boosting beverage. Hibiscus tea is popular worldwide, often sweetened and flavored with spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and mint. The dried calyces can be used to make syrups, glycerites, tinctures, infused honey, and jams. Hibiscus extracts are also incorporated into a variety of health and skincare products.

Safety:
Hibiscus is generally safe for most individuals when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to note that excessive consumption of hibiscus extract may be toxic to the liver. Additionally, hibiscus should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may stimulate menstruation and potentially cause miscarriage.

Adult Dose:

• Tea: 2 teaspoons of hibiscus calyces in 1 cup of boiling water, consumed 3 times per day.

Ways to Use:

• Tea
• Glycerite (fresh)
• Infused honey
• Infused vinegar
• Syrup
• Tincture

Actions:

• Anti-catarrhal
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial
• Antimicrobial
• Antioxidant
• Astringent
• Balances hormones
• Cardiotonic
• Diuretic
• Hepatic (supports liver function)
• Hypocholesterolemic (helps to lower cholesterol)
• Immune stimulant
• Reproductive tonic

Taste:
Astringent, sour

Energy:
Cooling, drying

In conclusion, Hibiscus sabdariffa is a versatile herb that offers a wide range of health benefits. Its cooling, antioxidant-rich properties support cardiovascular health, immune function, digestive and urinary health, and more. Whether consumed as a tea or in other forms, hibiscus remains a beloved herb for its refreshing flavor and therapeutic potential.