Hibiscus: botany, benefits and uses
Hibiscus, the essentials in 3 points:
Thirst-quenching and draining properties
-Helps improve digestion
-A delicious taste
A first-rate ornamental plant, hibiscus is also an excellent ally for everyday well-being. In fact, consumed as an herbal tea, it offers numerous benefits for the body.
Everything you need to know about hibiscus and its origins
Hibiscus is a perennial annual subshrub in the Malvaceae family. Hibiscus is therefore in the same family as mallow and cotton. There are over 200 different species, including hibiscus sabdariffa. Also known as roselle or guinea sorrel, the latter is of great interest to herbalists.
Hibiscus sabdariffa can be herbaceous or bushy, growing up to 5 m tall. It is best recognized by its large white or pink flowers, which turn red before the fruit forms. Grouped in inflorescence or isolated, hibiscus flowers have 5 petals. They are very large, sometimes reaching 30 cm in diameter. The plant’s leaves are also large and isolated. Its fruits are red, hairy capsules that release their seeds when ripe. Originally from West Africa, more specifically Angola, hibiscus sabdariffa is now cultivated almost everywhere in the world. It can be found in many African countries, Thailand, China and some tropical American countries, including Mexico.
The main uses and known benefits of hibiscus
Today, the hibiscus is highly prized as an ornamental plant because of its abundant, beautifully colored flowers. Many grow them in patios, gardens and parks for their aesthetic appeal. Easy to grow, it can be planted in the ground or in pots. But hibiscus, particularly the sabdariffa variety, is also renowned as a medicinal plant of choice in phytotherapy. The medicinal virtues of hibiscus sabdariffa have long been recognized by many African civilizations and the Maya K’iché of Guatemala.
Hibiscus sabdariffa has conquered many countries and is best consumed as an infusion. In fact, its flowers are picked to concoct a delicious drink with a pleasantly tangy flavor. Commonly known as bissap in Senegal, hibiscus infusion is known by other names in other countries. For example, it’s known as kardaké in Egypt, country gooseberry in the West Indies, agua de Jamaica in Mexico and Rosella in Australia. Appreciated for its thirst-quenching properties, hibiscus sabdariffa infusion is also known for its draining properties. Drinking this beverage supports the body’s elimination functions, notably the renal elimination of water. It also improves urinary tract function. Hibiscus sabdariffa owes all its beneficial properties to the many active ingredients it contains. In particular, it is rich in flavonoids, anthocyanosides, phytosterols and organic acids, including vitamin C. It also contains pectins, mucilages and polysaccharides.
Directions for use to enjoy the benefits of hibiscus
In phytotherapy, the flowers of hibiscus sabdariffa are mainly used. The calyxes and calicules are dried to make infusions. However, it is also possible to make infusions from the plant’s dried red fruits. Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves and young shoots are also eaten raw or cooked, like vegetables. To make hibiscus sabdariffa infusion, simply add a tablespoon of dried flowers to 250 ml of cold water. Heat and turn off the heat just before boiling. Leave to infuse for around ten minutes, then strain before tasting. As this drink contains no theine, you can drink it at any time of day. You can drink up to 7 cups a day. If you’re not lucky enough to have hibiscus sabdariffa plants at home, you can buy them from local herbalists. Wherever possible, opt for organic products. It’s not advisable to drink hibiscus sabdariffa infusion if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding. It is reputed to trigger menstruation. For an effective cure, it’s advisable to stick to the prescribed doses, as any overdose can be harmful to the liver. If you’re looking to lose weight, drink your infusion without adding sugar.
