Hibiscus sabdariffa - aka Roselle
In the language of flowers, hibiscus means delicate beauty, grace. There are more than 300 species found around the world, mostly in the tropical regions. Roselle is the common garden variety found in the tropics and also readily in Florida. Most varieties are ornamental, but the swollen red calyces of the sabdariffa type are dried and brewed into tea, use in juices, jellies, jams and ice cream.
Hibiscus is hardy and grows well in most soils as long as it has good drainage. This evergreen shrub has showy and continuous summer flowers but they last only one day. The wet red fleshy calyces are harvested after the flower has dropped but before the seed pod has dried and opened.
Hibiscus doesn't have a long history of medicinal uses like most herbs do. It wasn't until the 20th century that it began being used in aromatherapy and herbal healing. Researchers found that it has a relaxing effect on the uterus and it reduces blood pressure but it's effects are mild.
You will find the beautiful rosy color of Hibiscus is a key ingredient in many herbal teas including Lemon Zinger. It is high in Vitamin C, good for the stomach, digestive system and loss of appetite.
Hibiscus is effective for colds, respiratory inflammation and phlegm. It is a diuretic that helps water retention and constipation.
Externally, Hibiscus' mucilage properties help it to soften the skin and it can be used for sunburn, gray hair and hair growth. The German Commission E also reports it's use for shingles.
Caution: Hibiscus should NOT be taken during pregnancy.
There are many Hibiscus society dedicated to collect, record and pass on information regarding Hibiscus. The American Hibiscus Society is a non-profit organization, based in Cocoa Beach Florida. For more information visit: http://americanhibiscus.org/index.htm
Aromatherapy & Home Use for Hibiscus
Tea - 1-2 teaspoons of dried, Hibiscus flowers. Steep 10 minutes.
Great after dinner drink to simulate digestion. Blends well with
other herbal teas.
Bath - Place 1/4 cup dried flowers in a small muslin bag
or large tea ball. Steep while you bathe. Great for softening
the skin or soothing sunburn.
Hair Care - Make a paste by grinding the dried herb and
combining it with coconut oil. Massage into scalp once a day for
a month. For gray hair apply twice daily.
Culinary - Great for making wine, jelly, butter and syrup.
Use in ice cream, pies, sauces tarts and other desserts.
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Recipes
Hibiscus Herbal Tea
6 c. water
4 oz dried Hibiscus flowers
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
Sugar or another sweetener to taste.
Directions: Bring water to a boil. Remove from heat. Add Hibiscus blossoms and allow to steep, covered. When cool, add sugar to taste, and lime juice. Mix and chill for a refreshing tea! Preparation time: 10 min.
Hibiscus Cooler - Great for Children
64 oz water
3 TBS whole Hibiscus flowers
12 oz can apple juice concentrate
Directions: Boil water, add Hibiscus. Turn off flame and let it steep for a while. Pour tea and apple juice concentrate into container. Refrigerate.
Hibiscus High Blend - High in Vitamin C and great for
the cold and flu season.
Boil 2 quarts of water, add 1 teaspoon each: Hibiscus flowers,
Rosehips, Lemongrass leaves, Orange Peel, Spearmint leaves and
Rose Petals. Let steep 5-10 minutes. Add a pinch of stevia or
add sugar to taste. Delicious hot or cold or with a slice of lemon.
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