Hibiscus
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Most of us think of the beautiful flowering plant, when talking about hibiscus - however, this plant is more than just a beautiful flower for your garden. The hibiscus flower that is native to South Asian countries, has been used for centuries in food and drinks, as well as herbal medicine.
Hibiscus contains bioactive compounds, which is what gives the plant its beneficial properties. The main bioactive compounds are anthocyanins, flavonoids, polyphenols and phenolic acids. Both the stems and leaves as well as the calyces and seeds of the flower can be used and has especially been used in many traditional medicinal systems.
Today we will dive further into why this plant has earned its place in the herbal medicinal cabinet, the amazing benefits the plant has, as well as how to use it.
Benefits of hibiscus
Rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants play a major role in fighting free radical and non-radical oxidants in the body, as well as protecting the cells from oxidative stress and damage, which can lead to inflammation in the body, as well as a variety of diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.
Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, polyphenols and flavonoids, which means it can help fight oxidants and thereby help to prevent disease. A study from 2017 conducted on rats showed that hibiscus showed potential chemoprotective properties against DNA damage, which likely contributed to the fight against free radicals in the body.
While there is still a need for further research to confirm that it has the same effect on humans, antioxidant-rich foods, plants and herbs may play a role in preventing disease.
Anti-cancer properties
Hibiscus contains high amounts of polyphenols, which are compounds packed with antioxidants and may offer health benefits including anti-cancer properties. Studies support the connection between consumption of polyphenols and a lowered risk of cancer. Actually, numerous studies show that polyphenols could be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer.
May help lower blood pressure
Cardiovascular diseases are on the rise and high blood pressure can put extra strain on the heart, which can cause it to weaken as well as increasing the risk of heart disease. Studies show, that drinking hibiscus tea may lower blood pressure. A study done on 46 people showed, that the participants who drank hibiscus tea for one month had a greater decrease in their blood pressure than the group that was given a placebo.
While hibiscus is generally safe to consume, it is not recommended for people taking medications to treat high blood pressure, as it may interfere with the medication. See more in the section on side effects below.
Natural boost for the liver
Fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic fatty liver) is a condition, where fat builds up on the liver, which can ultimately lead to liver damage or even failure. Obesity is associated with this disease. Luckily, hibiscus may be a natural way to promote liver health. Multiple studies support this. Most recently a study done on rats in 2022 showed, that the extract of hibiscus helped improve fatty liver disease.
Natural aid for weight loss
Obesity is a problem in many areas in the world and is associated with many diseases, including fatty liver disease, which is discussed above. Numerous studies show, that hibiscus may be beneficial, when it comes to loosing weight. A study from 2014, with 36 participants, showed that after just 12 weeks of consuming hibiscus extracts they had a reduction in both weight and body fat. Another study done on rats also showed that consuming hibiscus could precent the accumulation of fat cells.
Healthy skin and hair
Due to hibiscus’ high amounts of antioxidants discussed earlier, hibiscus can also be helpful when it comes to both the health of the skin and hair. I am a big believer of eating your skincare and consuming hibiscus can be a wonderful thing to do internally for your skin.
How to use hibiscus
Hibiscus is very versatile as both the flower, stem, calyces and seeds can be used. Hibiscus is caffeine-free yet still refreshing and has a cranberry-like flavour. Consuming extracts can give better results, as it is a more concentrated form of hibiscus. However, I prefer either consuming hibiscus as a tea or making a homemade hibiscus iced tea with dried hibiscus flowers.
Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea is easy to make and therefore a great way to enjoy the many benefits of hibiscus. Simply follow the instructions on the back of your tea pack or buy loose leaf hibiscus tea and do as following;
Boil water - boil only what you need (250 ml used for one cup)
Pour over hibiscus leaves - hibiscus is strong in flavour and one teaspoon, or less, should therefore be enough for one cup of tea
Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you wish the flavour to be
Strain and then enjoy your cup of nourishing hibiscus tea - add lime or honey if preferred
I love this tea from Traditional Medicinals with Hibiscus & Hawthorn. Organic and fairtrade.
Hibiscus iced tea, also called Agua de Jamaica, is a refreshing way to consume hibiscus. It is made with dried hibiscus flowers, that you can also use as a tea. There is many ways to make hibiscus iced tea, some are more precise than others, especially if you want to make a traditional Agua de Jamaica.
I have made a recipe of my own, that is super easy to make and tastes amazing. Click here to check it out.
When brewing hibiscus iced tea, I recommend using loose leaves. I recommend this pure and natural hibiscus loose leaves from Iya Foods.
Hibiscus Powder
Hibiscus powder is an easy way to enjoy the many benefits of hibiscus. Try adding hibiscus powder to your smoothie, juice or even your facemask!
Essential oil
Essential Oils are concentrated plant extracts known for their therapeutic properties and versatility. They are commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood. Beyond aromatherapy, essential oils can support wellness in various ways such as added to skincare and household cleaners and fresheners as well as wellness support.
Always dilute essential oils before applying to the skin and consult guidelines for safe use. These powerful extracts are a natural way to enhance your daily routine!
I recommend this pure, cold pressed hibiscus essential oil from Salvia.
Side effects
Hibiscus is generally considered safe to consume. As with most things, consuming too high doses can give side effects. It is therefore important to consume hibiscus in moderate amounts.
As hibiscus may help lower blood pressure, people who have low blood pressure should be careful not to consume too much.
Always speak to your healthcare provider before adding a new supplement to your diet, especially if you are already taking medications.
Sources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25038696/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6337177/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29597091/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31960481/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5288558/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4997428/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29127059/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6621350/
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35487948/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24549255/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33721756/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30000942/
The information presented on this website is for educational purposes only and is NOT a substitute for licensed medical advice. This information may not be used to diagnose, cure, prevent, or treat any disease. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or making adjustments to your self-care regimen, especially if you are taking medication.
