What is Hibiscus?
Hibiscus is a flowering plant also called Gudhal, japa/Jaba/jawa in Hindi or Chinese rose.
Interesting Facts about Hibiscus:
- Hibiscus is liked by Lord Vishnu, and it also plays a traditional role in sacred ceremonies.
- Hibiscus is found in more than 200 known varieties. Hibiscus sabdariffa & Hibiscus acetosella are commonly used.
- It’s a Symbol of Beauty, grace, and romance.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, a hibiscus worn behind a woman’s left ear indicates that she is married, or in a relationship. If she wears a bright hibiscus behind her right ear, however, she is single and available.
Hibiscus Nutritional Benefits:
- Hibiscus contains a specific type of antioxidant called anthocyanin. This type of antioxidant is also found in berries.
- Hibiscus has a good supply of minerals including Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. It also contains B- Vitamins like Niacin and Folic Acid and vitamin C.
Health Benefits of Hibiscus:
- Hibiscus and weight loss :
- Hibiscus can speed up metabolism.
- Its tea may help lower blood fat levels.
- Hibiscus contains a few anti-obesity properties. Hibiscus activates the AMPK compound which is found in many anti-obesity drugs.
- Hibiscus Stimulates the Breakdown of fats.
- Hibiscus May help manage Blood Pressure.
- It can help control blood sugar levels
- It can be used as a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent
- It makes the best herbal caffeine-free tea. Out of all herbal teas, hibiscus has the highest amount of antioxidants.
- Hibiscus is a Great Hair Tonic :
- Hibiscus promotes hair growth and prevents premature hair greying
- It stimulates blood circulation to the scalp and increasing the supply of essential nutrients to the Hair Follicles
- It acts as a natural coolant and provides cooling relief from the summer heat
- Glowing skin and a clear complexion:
- Hibiscus improves skin health by guarding it against radical damage and delaying premature aging.
- It’s called The Natural Botox for the skin.
- It helps boost collagen & Improves Skin Tone.
- The presence of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) including citric and malic acids has strong exfoliating properties.
- Hibiscus nourishes the skin cells by revamping skin tone and color.
- Supports proper function of the Heart, kidneys & Liver
- It acts as a powerful antidepressant: Hibiscus tea may contain vitamins & minerals, specifically flavonoids, which have been associated with antidepressant properties.
- Hibiscus tea helps keep your immune system healthy.
- Supports healthy circulation.
- Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range.
- Hibiscus has Diuretic and blood-thinning properties. ( circulation)
- Help improve digestion, laxative properties, prevent constipation and improve the health of your gastrointestinal system.
Health Benefits of Hibiscus for Females:
- It supports the female reproductive system.
- Hibiscus affects estrogen.
- Drinking hibiscus tea can induce menstruation.
- Hibiscus can help regulate your period.
- You can brew a cup of hibiscus tea to help with cramps.
- Hibiscus is very beneficial for keeping periods regular in women.
- Hibiscus is a homeopathic remedy used historically for managing menopausal symptoms.
- Hibiscus May help cure PCOS, in PCOS there are increased levels of several oxidative elements in the blood
- Hibiscus helps treat UTI.
Hibiscus Ayurvedic Properties:
- Rasa/ Taste: Bitter & Astringent
- Guna: light to digest & Dry
- Potency: cooling
- Reduce Kapha and pitta
How many hibiscuses in A day?
- Almost 15-30% of hibiscus tea is composed of organic acids. These acids are malic acid, tartaric acid, and Citric Acid.
- Great for skin, digestive health, and reducing inflammation.
- Hibiscus tea can be made by steeping 1.25 grams (1- 1.5 teaspoons) of dried hibiscus or 2 Fresh flowers into 150ml – 250ml (3/4 – 1cup ) of boiling water for 1-3 minutes.
- One to three times daily for 2-6 weeks.
Ways to Consume Use and Hibiscus?
Hibiscus can be consumed in the form of tea, juice, or sharbat, infused in water, mixed in milk (controls heavy bleeding), or buttermilk (good for piles).
You can apply it in the form of a hair mask, face mask, etc.
Hibiscus Side Effects:
- Since it lowers BP hibiscus tea is not recommended for people who already have low blood pressure or hypotension.
- Unsafe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, hibiscus tea carries the highest risk for pregnant women
- Hibiscus is known to cause interactions with certain drugs.
- High consumption can cause electrolytes imbalance by increased levels of chloride
- A large amount can cause liver toxicity
- May aggravate gout
- Allergies: hibiscus can cause shakiness, constipation, and stomach discomfort
- Avoid if you’re only trying to conceive
- You should also avoid hibiscus if you’re taking any birth control pills
- Stop using hibiscus at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- Hibiscus may lower the blood sugar levels ( avoid if on medication)
- Some people may feel intoxicated or experience hallucinations after drinking hibiscus tea.
ENDNOTE:
If used wisely, a very easily available ingredient can provide you a lot of benefits!