Hibiscus flowers are renowned for their burst of colour and easy-on-the-eye appearance. However, what many people don’t know are the potential health and beauty benefits of the hibiscus flower. These blossoms, which are found in many parts of the globe and enjoy a famous link to Hawaii, are used by many cultures for their medicinal properties as well as their health and beauty benefits.
The flowers come in various colours including yellow, red, white and a light orange/peach shade. Moreover, the most common variety of the hibiscus plant is the Hibiscus sabdariffa,which throws a red bloom. It is the flowers of this plant which are typically cultivated for their medicinal values.
Hibiscus tea, specifically, is famed for helping to treat ailments. Below, we delve a little further into hibiscus tea and its many beneficial properties.
Hibiscus tea is derived from a mixture of dried hibiscus flowers, the calyces (which is the dark red, cup-shaped centre of the flower) and the hibiscus leaves. Once the flower has finished its bloom, the petals fall off and the calyces transform into pods which house the plant’s seeds. Many herbal teas and other herbal beverages contain these seeds.
Initially hailed from Angola, the Hibiscus sabdariffa are now cultivated throughout many tropical regions, in particular in Sudan, Egypt, Mexico, Thailand and China.
Due to its tartness, the flavour of hibiscus tea can often be too much to bear for some people, particularly those with sensitivities. It is also recommended to seek medical advice prior to consuming hibiscus if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any prior concerns with liver or kidney disease.
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Hibiscus has been traditionally famed as an aid for many ailments. According to The Natural Medicine Journal;
“Historically, folk medicine has employed H. sabdariffa for the treatment of high blood pressure, liver diseases and fever”. [1]
In our curiosity, the team atBondi Beach Tea Co, have uncovered some further worldwide uses of hibiscus in the form of herbal tea.
Hibiscus tea uses in Egypt
It is said that the Egyptians used hibiscus tea as an aid to help lower body temperature. They also used the plant to help to treat heart and nerve diseases, and as a diuretic to increase the production of urine.[2]
Hibiscus tea uses in Africa
In African folk medicine, the Africans used hibiscus tea for its spasmolytic, antibacterial, cholagogic (to promote the flow of bile), diuretic and anthelmintic (to kill parasites) properties. [1]
Hibiscus tea uses in Iran
Hibiscus tea in Iran is still used as a modern-day treatment for high blood pressure. [2]
Recent animal and human studies have also demonstrated that extracts and infusions of the hibiscus flower affect atherosclerosis mechanisms, blood sugar, lipids, and blood pressure. [1]
However, aside from its medicinal uses, hibiscus may be a very good addition to your health and beauty regime too. Thanks to the team atInstitute of Natural and Modern Cosmetech, we have pulled together the below uses of hibiscus for your hair and skin.
In a powdered form particularly, hibiscus is considered as a natural alternative to treating head lice. Hibiscus is also said to provide relief from dry scalp or dandruff.
Sufferers of acne, blemished or aging skin may also benefit from the use of hibiscus, thanks to its antioxidant properties.
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From getting rid of bloating to providing more energy, offering aid for sleep, or increasing milk supply for breastfeeding mothers, herbal teas have so many traditional benefits to offer. Find out more at Bondi Beach Tea Co, and discover your own herbal tea best friend.
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