Botanical Name: Hibiscus sabdariffa
Common Name: Roselle, sorrel, Flor de Jamaica, karkade
Flavor: Sour, due to the high concentration of organic acids, including citric and malic acids; slightly sweet
Energetics: cooling, moistening
Herbal Actions: Diuretic, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Hepatoprotective, Hypotensive
Mild Laxative, Astringent, Cardioprotective
Organ Affinities: Cardiovascular System, Liver, Kidneys/Urinary System, Digestive System
Uses:
Hypertension: Hibiscus tea is commonly used to lower blood pressure, making it an excellent remedy for managing hypertension.
High Cholesterol: Regular consumption may help to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Digestive Issues: Hibiscus can help with mild constipation and soothe the digestive tract.
Liver Health: Its hepatoprotective properties make it useful in supporting liver detoxification.
Weight Management: Hibiscus may help in weight management by reducing lipid accumulation and enhancing metabolism.
Fevers: Its cooling nature can help reduce fevers and cool down the body during hot weather or illness.
Menstrual Health: The plant can help regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve symptoms of PMS due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory actions.
Preparation and Dosage:
Tisane (water infusion): use 1-2 teaspoons of dried hibiscus flower per cup of hot water. Steep 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups daily as needed for cardiovascular and liver health or for overall wellness.
Cold Infusion: to extract hibiscus' moistening properties, steep hibiscus flowers in cold water overnight or for several hours.
Tincture: take 2-4 mL of hibiscus tincture 2-3X/day
Syrup: simmer hibiscus flowers in water and sweetener (sugar, honey, etc) and take by the spoonful or add to beverages.
Contraindications
Pregnancy: Hibiscus is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in large amounts, as it may stimulate menstruation or uterine contractions.
Low Blood Pressure: Individuals with low blood pressure should use hibiscus cautiously, as it can further lower blood pressure.
Hormonal Conditions: Hibiscus may have mild estrogenic effects, so caution is advised for those with hormone-sensitive conditions.
Drug Interactions: Hibiscus may interact with certain medications, particularly those for high blood pressure or cholesterol, so consult a healthcare provider before use.
Materia Magica
Love and Passion: Hibiscus is often used in love spells and rituals to attract love, passion, and romance. The vibrant red color of the flower symbolizes love, lust, and attraction.
Divination and Clairvoyance: Hibiscus is believed to enhance psychic abilities and intuition. Drinking hibiscus tea or burning the dried flowers as incense can help to open the third eye and deepen spiritual insight.
Protection: The plant is also used for protection, particularly in rituals to ward off negative energy and psychic attacks.
Healing: Hibiscus is associated with emotional and physical healing, helping to restore balance and harmony.
Fertility: In some traditions, hibiscus is used in fertility rituals to enhance reproductive health and increase the chances of conception.