July 12, 2002

HIBISCUS

Latin Name: Hibiscus sabdariffa

Alternate Names: Red Tea, China-rose, Roselle, Jamaica Tea, Sudanese Tea, Japa (Sanskrit)

Family: MALVACEAE

Parts Used: Flowers (calices).

Properties: Alterative, Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiparasitic, Antiscorbutic, Antispasmodic, Astringent, Demulcent, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Hemostatic, Refrigerant

Internal Uses: Cough, Cystitis, Fever

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

It is a mild antibacterial with soothing properties. Hibiscus makes a beautiful red or pink colored tea that is refreshing when taken cool in hot weather.

Topical Uses: Balding, Dandruff, Hemorrhoids, Wounds

Topical Applications: Mixed with oil and used by Chinese and Indian women to stimulate hair growth and treat dandruff. In China, the juice of the petals is used to darken eyebrows. A wash is made from Hibiscus to treat wounds. Use as a salve for hemorrhoids.

Culinary uses: Hibiscus is used in jams, chutneys, curries, liqueurs, wines and natural food colorings. Young leaves can be cooked in curries.

Energetics: Sour, Sweet, Cool.

Chemical Constituents: Vitamin C, hibiscic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid.

Contraindications: Avoid giving to a person who is very chilled.

Comments: The common name Hibiscus also refers to the species Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Hibiscus syriacus, and Hibiscus esculentus, which are used interchangeably with Hibiscus sabdariffa.

-- Phil in KS (cshomestead@planetkc.com), July 12, 2002

Answers

Well, I couldn't find much of a picture, but hopefully this one will do.....

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), July 12, 2002.