Hibiscus Flower: Nutritional and Therapeutic Benefits

Author: Vivian Benjamin

The Flower of Love and Passion
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis or as it is commonly called Hibiscus flower is one of the tropical plant species, from the Hibisceae tribe of the Malvaceae family, which comprises around 300 species. This plant is cultivated in Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, China, Japan, and many more countries.



Hibiscus is a bushy small tree growing approximately 5 metres tall and nearly 3 metres wide. Its bark is light grey in colour and it’s easy to peel since it’s smooth. Hibiscus leaves are oval in shape and measure between 8 and 10cm long. The flowers grow up to 25cm wide and contain five petals. Moreover, it has different types of colours ranging from red, pink, white, orange, yellow, and purple.



Hibiscus plant has been used even in ancient times, due to the vibrant colour of the flower petals and the strong fibre found in the stem of the plant. The Indians and Chinese used the juice of the flower petals as a dye to darken the eyebrows and hair. This practice was also passed to the Portuguese and Arabs. On the other hand, the Indonesians and Malaysians used flower petals to create a dye to polish shoes.



Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Linne Malvaceae (one of the species of hibiscus plant) also commonly called Roselle, contains a strong fibre found in the stem of the plant, which was used to produce household items such as sackcloth, cord, and twine.




Nutritional benefits of Hibiscus Flower
Recently more studies are emerging on flowering plants, which can be used to benefit the human body. One of the flowering plants that are highly recommended for the well-being of humans is the hibiscus plant. Let’s explore how this flower can support your health and well-being from the inside:

1. Antioxidant properties
Free radicals are widely known to destroy the cells inside your body. Antioxidant destroys this free radical to help maintain healthy cells. Studies have concurred that not only do antioxidant helps against the damage done by free radical but also may prevent chronic diseases. Hibiscus plant contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and anthocyanins, which makes it valuable to human health.



2. Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation plays a key role in the development of many illnesses such as cancer, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and many more. Certain studies have mentioned that the hibiscus plant helps fight inflammation, hence promoting good health.


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3. Antihypertensive effect
Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common disease that affects the population around the world. Over time this illness can cause heart disease and affects the kidney. Recent studies have shown that the hibiscus plant may reduce blood pressure. However, they cannot replace the medication used for treating high blood pressure. While the plant cannot be used as a treatment for diseases, it can certainly assist in the prevention of illness.



4. Reduce cholesterol level
Hibiscus plants may help to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. A poor diet can lead to the build-up of fats in the blood vessels, and eventually, people will end up developing heart disease. Incorporating hibiscus plants into your diet may help in the increase of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Nevertheless, according to some studies, the hibiscus plant has been shown not to affect cholesterol levels.



5. Weight loss
Several studies have demonstrated that hibiscus extract (a more concentrated form of hibiscus tea) could help with weight loss, which can assist in the prevention of obesity.



6. Antimicrobial properties
According to a recent study done in a lab, hibiscus extract has exhibited antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus, klebsiella, and many other bacteria.


 
7. Anti-diabetic properties
Diabetes is a chronic, long-lasting health condition that affects the population worldwide, due to impairment of the pancreas. Studies have shown that the use of hibiscus can decrease glucose in healthy and diabetic people. This is because the plant contains phytochemicals, which aid in carbohydrate digestion. Apart from that, it also improves insulin secretion. Nonetheless, this guideline can be used as prevention, not as a replacement for medication to control diabetes.




Therapeutic uses of Hibiscus Flower
Apart from consuming hibiscus to aid health and well-being, this flower also can heal from the outside.

1. Promotes wound healing
During ancient times, plant concoction has always been used to treat open wounds. Ancient Egyptians applied a paste of honey, lint, and grease on a wound to remove pus and encourage healing. Indians also used honey paste for an open wound. On the other hand, the Greeks stressed the importance of cleanliness. They washed the wound with clean water (often boiled and cooled down), vinegar, and wine.



Modern medicine came to light only after the 18th century, introducing surgery and the use of antiseptic. Presently, several studies have shown that extract from the hibiscus plant can aid in wound healing. A study conducted using patients, who developed leg venous ulcers; shows that using hibiscus extract ointment twice a day could initiate wound closure in less than 12 weeks.



Furthermore, another study concluded, that using hibiscus extract promotes skin regeneration and hydration. Although studies have been showing that hibiscus plants have these potential benefits, more research needs to be done to confirm this data.




2. Application in cosmetic products
A cosmetic product’s effectiveness depends not only on the active ingredients but also on the mixture of all the ingredients. Apart from that, vitamin E is a key role to promote beauty and health. Research done on Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinos L.) seed oil, shows that this species of hibiscus enhances the functions of cosmetic products.



3. Alternative treatment for hair problems
There are limitless evidence-backed treatments such as the use of coconut oil, sesame oil and food consumed to nourish strong hair. In addition to that, presently, a study has indicated that the use of phytochemical extracts from the hibiscus plant has tremendously improved hair issues. Aside from that, this extract also enhances the original colour and smell of the hair.




Methods to incorporate hibiscus flower in your diet
There are various ways you can add this amazing plant as part of your diet. The most usual way is to drink it as tea. Simply, add dried hibiscus flower petals into your mug or cup, then pour hot water over them, mix it with a spoon and let it be for 5 minutes. Finally, you can drain and enjoy. You may add sugar or honey if you need otherwise, it is sweet in nature. The taste is similar to cranberries.



You can also eat it straight from the tree. When I was a child, my old house has a hibiscus tree, and I used to eat the flower straight from the tree almost every day (always wash before you consume any raw food). The practice was passed down from my great-grandparents. Apart from that, you can toss it into your salad; make a jam out of it, or add it to your cakes and ice creams.







All in All
Hibiscus flower has recently been one of the most experimented plants for its medicinal and nutritional properties. Not to mention, many people continue their practice that has been passed down from their parents regarding this plant’s healing benefits. Furthermore, this plant shows a promising effect on health and well-being. Adding hibiscus to your daily diet can rejuvenate and nourish you.



However, always practice mindfulness and balance in whatever you eat and do in life. Overconsumption of any food has been shown not to provide health benefits in any way. Let me know your experience with a hibiscus flower in the comment section. I would love to know how you benefited from this practice. Let us share insights and be inspired in living healthily.
 




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References
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     Review; Open Journal of Nutritional and Food Science; 1(1): 1003.
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     sinensis L. used for hair disorder; International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology; 70-75
7.  Chee CC and Kar LN (2020); Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed oil: Application as cosmetic product ingredients;
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8.  Maralit Bruan MJ, Tianco EA. (2019); Efficacy and Safety of 4% Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Leaf Extract Ointment as an
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