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Hibiscus: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects And More!

Introduction:   

Hibiscus, commonly called Roselle, belongs to the family Malvaceae. Hibiscus has over 300 species of flowering plants, and one of them is Hibiscus sabdariffa Linne. It is considered a multipurpose plant that may have various health benefits. Hibiscus is a perennial flowering plant grown throughout the seasons. The shrub originated in Africa and is planted worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions of India, China, Sudan, Malaysia, Taiwan and many other countries.1-3

Hibiscus is cultivated for flowers, leaves, stems, seeds and roots. Hibiscus flowers and seed oils are widely used in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations. Hibiscus has medicinal value, which has been referenced in Ayurveda and the Chinese medicine system. It is commonly called Lalambari or Gudhal in Hindi and Jaswandh in Marathi.1,2

Nutritional Value of Hibiscus: 

According to a study, regular consumption of hibiscus tea potentially lowered the blood pressure of a hypertensive patient as compared to the initial dose of the standard medication to lower the BP. So, hibiscus tea might be useful to bring down high BP with the avoidance of side effects of the medications used to treat hypertension.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Did you know?

  • Hibiscus extract has been found to have anti-aging effects on the skin. source: PubMed
  • Hibiscus extracts may offer a source of products that can be used to prevent and treat melanoma. source: PMC
  • The leaf extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is more potent in promoting hair growth compared to the flower extract. source: PubMed
  • Hibiscus extract can help regulate lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels in the body. source: PubMed
  • In a study, hibiscus extract supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and waist circumference. source: PubMed

Hibiscus has good nutritional value, which is given below. 

Nutritional Value Calyx Seeds Leaves  
Carbohydrate (g) 10.2 25.5 8.7 
Fat (g) 0.1 21.4 0.3 
Protein (g) 28.9 3.5 
Vitamin C (mg) 17 2.3 
Calcium (mg) 150 350 240 
Iron (mg) 
Thiamine (mg) 0.05 0.1 0.2 
Riboflavin (mg) 0.07 0.15 0.4 
Niacin (mg) 0.06 1.5 1.4 

Table1: Nutritional value of Hibiscus per 100 grams4 

Also Read: Guduchi : Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Properties of Hibiscus:

In Egypt and Sudan, tea extracted from a part of the hibiscus flower is used as a refrigerant to lower body temperature. This preparation is known as karkade.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

The whole plant of hibiscus, including the flower, stem, leaves, roots and seeds, has beneficial properties .1

Also Read: Neem: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and more!

Potential Uses of Hibiscus:

Hibiscus may have the following potential uses that might benefit various health conditions.

1. Potential Uses of hibiscus for cancer

Hibiscus calyx juice might be beneficial for cancer. It may show an antiproliferative (reducing cancer cell spread) effect and has antioxidants which may perform free radical scavenging activities. The human cell line studies by Akim et al. 2011 have shown that hibiscus juice may cause cancer cell death. It might be considered that hibiscus may have potential uses in cancer-related diseases. 1,2

However, these studies are insufficient and require more human trials to support the potential use of hibiscus for cancer management in humans. Cancer is a serious medical condition and may require a qualified doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, seeking medical advice from a doctor before consuming hibiscus juice is preferable.

2. Potential Uses of hibiscus for   blood sugar

The efficacy of hibiscus in the management of insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus type 2 was studied in an animal model (Peng CH. et al. 2011). The results revealed a significant reduction in blood sugar levels. It also showed that the hibiscus extract might have anti-insulin resistance properties (shows an insulin-like response), decreasing high blood sugar and insulin levels.4 These studies are insufficient as these studies are not done on humans. However, more studies on humans are required to back this claim. Therefore, it is essential to first speak to your concerned doctors and only have hibiscus as a herb.

PharmEasy Recommends – Atulya Hibiscus Organic Powder

3. Potential Uses of hibiscus for hair health

Hibiscus leaves and flowers may have beneficial properties for hair health. It might be helpful in circulating the blood to hair follicles. The leaves and flowers of hibiscus contain natural pigments, antioxidants and vitamins that might be useful for hair health.5,6

According to animal studies done by N. Adhirajan et al. 2003, the topical application of leaf extract and gentle rubbing action on the skin enhanced blood circulation; this may have some effect on hair growth. This study also mentions that the hibiscus leaf extract might directly impact hair follicles, improving hair condition.5,7

These studies are carried out on animals and not done on humans. Hence, this information is insufficient. We require more studies on humans back above claim. So, it is essential to first speak to your concerned doctors and only use hibiscus for hair health.

You might like – Best Home Remedies for Hair Growth

4. Potential Uses of hibiscus for the skin health

Hibiscus plants are rich sources of mucilages, which are complex polysaccharides. The plant’s leaves were traditionally used to manage burning sensations and skin diseases.   It may have a skin-soothing and moisturising effect. The hibiscus mucilage extract contains glycerine, which may show the highest skin moisturising effect.8

There is a need for more studies to establish the positive effect of hibiscus on skin-related problems. Hibiscus should not be used to self-medicate without consulting a doctor.

5. Potential Uses of hibiscus for weight management

Hibiscus may have potential uses in weight management. In animal studies conducted by Hansawasdi et al. 2003, hibiscus tea showed blocking of sugars and starch absorption, which might benefit weight loss. The ability of hibiscus extract to maintain weight might be due to its polyphenols and flavonoids, which might decrease the accumulation of fat and, thus, maintain body weight.9

Unfortunately, these studies are insufficient and more studies are needed to support the potential use of hibiscus for weight loss management in humans. Therefore, consult a doctor before having hibiscus tea to keep a check on your weight.

6. Potential Uses of hibiscus for kidneys

The hibiscus extract may have a beneficial effect on kidneys. It might reduce serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and lipids. hibiscus may be beneficial in lowering oxidative damage to kidneys. Consumption of hibiscus tea might produce a uricosuric effect that might be helpful in the excretion of uric acid through urine. This may benefit the deposition of calcium crystals in kidneys and thus, managing kidney stones.10

The information is not sufficient and further studies are required to support the potential use of hibiscus to overcome kidney-related issues in humans.

Other Potential Uses of hibiscus

Though there are studies showing the benefits of hibiscus in various health conditions, these are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true scope of benefits of hibiscus on human health. Every person may respond differently to hibiscus herbal preparations. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before using hibiscus for any medical condition.

Also Read: Bael: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and more!

How to Use Hibiscus? 

Various parts of hibiscus are used in the following ways:

People should consult a doctor before taking hibiscus herbal supplements. We recommend that you do not change or discontinue your ongoing medications with herbal preparations without consulting a qualified physician.

Side Effects of Hibiscus:

Before consuming any herb, one should consult an Ayurvedic physician because the herbs may have specific side effects. The side effects of hibiscus are as follows:

However, if any such side effects are observed after having hibiscus, please get in touch with an Ayurvedic physician who advised you to have the herb. They will provide the appropriate treatment to overcome the side effects.

Also Read: Reetha: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Precautions to Take With Hibiscus: 

People should take precautions while consuming Hibiscus extract, specifically patients with heart and kidney-related diseases.9,10

1. Cardiac disorders

Patients with high blood pressure receiving non-potassium sparing diuretics (medicines that help excrete more urine and treat oedema) should take precautions. If the dose increases the prescribed amount, the diuretic effect of Hibiscus extract might exert pressure on the blood vessel, causing death caused by loss of heart function.8,10

2. Kidney dysfunction

Patients with kidney stones or kidney dysfunction should consult a doctor about using Hibiscus juice; consumption in high amounts may lead to high creatinine levels in the blood resulting in a loss of kidney functioning.10

3. Pregnancy

There is insufficient information about the safe use of hibiscus for pregnant women. It is better to take doctor’s advice during this condition.5

4. Children

The safety of taking hibiscus extract by lactating mothers is questionable because consumption during lactation might increase weight gain after birth and delay the onset of puberty in children. Lactating mothers should take advice from their doctor before using HIbiscus.10

If you are suffering from any disease condition, or suffer from specific allergies, consult your doctor about what foods and vegetables to avoid. Also, avoid consuming hibiscus for any health condition without consulting with a doctor first.

Interactions With Other Drugs:

Hibiscus juice, when administered together with any drug, may increase the side effects and toxicity and also lead to failure of the drug efficacy.9

When taken together with acetaminophen (paracetamol), Hibiscus sweetened water extract may interact with acetaminophen, resulting in the loss of drug efficacy.11 Also, suppose you are taking any medications. In that case, you need to consult with your doctor about the possible interactions of the drug with any vegetables or herbs. This will help you avoid possible interactions of medicines with any herb or vegetable.

Also Read: Ashwagandha: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hibiscus tea?

Hibiscus Tea is a non-caffeinated herbal tea made from Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdaraffa L.). The tea is made from the dried fruit of the flower. The tea is red and tastes like berries.4

How to make hibiscus tea?

Hibiscus tea is made from the fruit calyx of hibiscus. Wash and air dry some calyces, crush them or make a fine powder. To make tea add the crushed calyces to a tea bag and let it steep for a couple of minutes in boiling water; add sugar or lemon juice if required. The tea is ready to serve hot or cold and can be stored in the refrigerator.4

What are the different common names of hibiscus?

There are several common names for hibiscus, such as Roselle, Jamaican sorrel, and Indian sorrel in English. In Urdu, it is called Rozelle hemp. In Hindi, it is known as Lalambari.1

What are the benefits of hibiscus for hair?

Mixing hibiscus powder with water and applying it to the hair might benefit hair health. Hibiscus consists of natural pigments, vitamins and antioxidants that may be useful for managing natural hair conditions.6 However, this information is insufficient. You should consult a doctor before using hibiscus for hair.

What vitamins are present in the hibiscus?

Hibiscus contains vitamin C, B1 (thiamin), B3 (niacin) and B2 (riboflavin).4

References:

1. Solangi A, Siddiqui A, Junejo S, Younisarain M, Aslam Ansari M, Talpur A, et al. Roselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa L.) A Multipurpose Medicinal Plant And Its Uses: A Review. Int J Biol Res. 2017 ;5(1):21–24. Available from: ROSELLE (HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA L.) A MULTIPURPOSE MEDICINAL PLANT AND ITS USES.pdf (ijbr.net)

2. Puro K, Sunjukta R, Samir S, Ghatak S, Shakuntala I, Sen A. Medicinal Uses of Roselle Plant (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.): A Mini Review. Issue 1 Indian J of Hill Farming . 2014 ;27(1):47-51. Available from: http://www.kiran.nic.in/pdf/IJHF/Vol27_1_new/9.%20MedicinalUsesofRosellePlant(Hibiscus%20sabdariffaL).pdf

3. Ismail A, Hainida E, Ikram K, Saadiah H, Nazri M. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Seeds-Nutritional Composition, Protein Quality and Health Benefits Global Science Books Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Seeds-Nutritional Composition, Protein Quality and Health Benefits. 2008; 2(1):1-16. Available from: https://www.doc-developpement-durable.org/file/Culture/Arbres-Fruitiers/FICHES_ARBRES/bissap-hibiscus%20sabdariffa&cannabinus/roselle%20seeds.pdf

4. Singh P, Khan M, Hailemariam H. Nutritional and health importance of Hibiscus sabdariffa: a review and indication for research needs. 2017; 6(5):125-128. Available from: https://www.researchgate/links/59c64a92458515548f326de6/Nutritional-and-Health-Importance-of-Hibiscus-Sabdariffa-A-Review-and-Indication-for-Research-Needs.pdf

5. Jadhav V, Thorat R, Kadam V, Sathe N, Jadhav V. Traditional medicinal uses of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Journal of Pharmacy Research. 2009 [;2(8):1220-1222. Available from: https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.735.2975&rep=rep1&type=pdf

6. Shelke M, Parjane S, Mankar SD, Siddheshwar SS. Therapeutic potential of Hibiscusrosa sinensis – A Review. Res J of Sci and Techno. 2021 2(8);151–156. Available from: https://rjstonline.com/ 10.52711/2349-2988.2021.00023

7. Adhirajan N, Ravi Kumar T, Shanmugasundaram N, Babu M. In vivo and in vitro evaluation of hair growth potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn. J Ethno pharmacol . 2003 ;88(2–3):235–239. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12963149/

8. Kassakul W, Praznik W, Hongwiset D, Article O, Viernstein H, Phrutivorapongkul A, et al. Characterisation Of The Mucilages Extracted From Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Linn And Hibiscus Mutabilis Linn And Their Skin Moisturizing Effect. Art in InterJ of Pharma and PharmaceuSci . 2014;6(11). Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283121889

9. Ojulari V, Lee G, Nam O. Beneficial Effects of Natural Bioactive Compounds from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. on Obesity. 2019; 24(210):1-14. Available from: www.mdpi.com/journal/molecules

10. Da-Costa-Rocha I, Bonnlaender B, Sievers H, Pischel I, Heinrich M. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. – a phytochemical and pharmacological review. Food Chemistry. 2014 ;165:424–443. Available from: https://europepmc.org/article/med/25038696

11. Kolawole J, Maduenyi A. Effect of zobo drink (Hibiscus sabdariffa water extract) on the pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen in human volunteers. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet . 2004 ;29(1):25–29. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15151167/

  Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Know All About Hibiscus Tea: Benefits, Uses And Side Effects

Hibiscus is a flowering plant innate to subtropical and tropical counties throughout the world. In India, you usually find them blossomed mostly during the summertime. It is also commonly known as shoe flower. This plant commonly belongs to the Malvaceae family which is quite a vast family. The flower is typically bigger than other flowers.

It has 5 or more petals; the colour may range from orange to red to white, depending upon its variety. 

Did you know? There are at least 679 species of hibiscus plant and mainly are used to prepare tea both hot and cold.

In India, the shoe flower is known as Lord Ganesh’s favourite flower and hence you will always see the hibiscus flower in every Ganesh temple. The significance behind offering this flower includes overall prosperity and destruction of enemies.

In the same way, hibiscus when taken in the form of tea can help fight many free radical enemies and help improve our overall health. Let’s have a look:

Forms of Hibiscus Tea:

We all have heard about green tea, but hibiscus tea is now trending among the Indian population mainly because of its higher antioxidant compound. Usually, the flowers or the extract of flowers are used to make hibiscus tea. Or many times the calyces are dried and used to prepare the tea or syrup or added in the Indian or Southeast Asian preparation.

Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

1. Rich in Antioxidant:

There are many herbal teas available in the market, but hibiscus tea wins the race of antioxidants. It has the maximum amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for a century now to help protect from free radical damage and thus improves immunity and overall functioning of the body.

The bright red colour of the hibiscus comes from the presence of the antioxidant called anthocyanin. This antioxidant has been studied extensively to help fight many chronic diseases.

2. May Help Lower Blood Pressure Levels:

One of the very well-known studies done on humans was to understand the benefit of hibiscus tea on high blood pressure. It was found out that the daily use of tea can help reduce systolic pressure by an average of 7.5 mm hg and diastolic pressure by an average of 3.5 mm Hg. The result did show a positive effect on lowering the BP, but its benefit may have a counteracting effect and hence it may be risky to consume it without a doctor’s or dietician’s advice.

3. Could Improve Blood Sugar Levels:

People suffering from type-2 diabetes may benefit from hibiscus tea. In 2013, a study done on diabetic rats showed the positive impact of hibiscus tea on their blood sugar levels. It was reduced to 12% which was considered to be a significant change. No change was found out in rats with high blood sugar levels. Most of the evidence is animal-based and hence more research and a human trial is required.  

4. Helps Lower Cholesterol:

It was during the same rat trial, it was observed that the hibiscus trial also affected the rat’s cholesterol levels. And later they found out that hibiscus tea not only lowers cholesterol in people with diabetes but also those without too. It mainly reduces the ”bad” i.e. LDL cholesterol and increases the ”good” i.e. HDL cholesterol. But definitely more studies are required and a human trial will help a lot.

5. Supports Healthy Skin:

Hibiscus tea got numerous benefits for your skin. Hibiscus tea is rich in Vitamin C that can help improve collagen production naturally in the body. Hibiscus tea is high in antioxidants and thus prevents inflammation of the skin and protects it from acne or skin pigmentation.

6. Fights Inflammation

Several human and animal studies have proven that hibiscus has the ability to fight inflammation in the body. Inflammation plays a role in the growth and development of many illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, tumour, asthma, several CVDs (heart diseases) and rheumatoid arthritis. While more research is yet to be conducted on this front, it seems that the anti-inflammatory properties of hibiscus can be seen when consumed in moderation.

7. Fights Bacteria

In laboratory studies, hibiscus extracts kept certain types of bacteria in check. While it’s clear hibiscus has antibacterial properties, more research is yet to be made to check its effectiveness in fighting bacteria when it comes to human beings.

8. Supports healthy liver

According to several studies, hibiscus extracts have been proven to support healthy liver functioning in human beings. Due to its antioxidant properties, hibiscus extracts protect the liver from several harmful toxins from entering and affecting the liver. In some lab tests, hibiscus extracts have also shown anti-cancer activity in liver cell tests.

How to make a Hibiscus Tea?

You can make hibiscus tea with readymade tea packets or can use dried hibiscus petals or calyces. For a cup of boiling tea, take a deep pan; bring water to a boiling point. Now, add the measured dried hibiscus petals (approx. 1 tsp) and let them simmer for 5 minutes. You can strain it or have it just like that. Try a few variations by adding ginger. honey, cinnamon or maple syrup.

Possible Side Effects:

Hibiscus tea taken in an appropriate amount is generally considered to be safe. It has been shown to have fewer side effects, which can be ignored. Problems occur when hibiscus supplements or capsules are taken in a larger dose. This may cause stomach upset, gas, constipation, problems while urinating, headache, and tinnitus.

Always speak to your healthcare professional especially when you are pregnant, lactating mother, or when on medication. Hibiscus tea may interfere with diabetes medications or hypertensive medications and may cause a further drop in blood sugar and blood pressure and this can hurt your health. Consult your doctor to avoid any interactions and side effects.

Take Away Message:

Hibiscus tea, one of the popular tea may be a nice supply of antioxidants, its wide standard for its ability to assist lower pressure levels, management cardiovascular disease; skin-friendly, moderate consumption of this tea carefully is usually thought-about safe.

However, people taking medicines ought to consult a health professional, as irresistible drinking in any type might act with bound medications.

Read more about: 20 Foods to Eat For a Healthy Skin!

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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