| We welcome Alternative Health Journal Members to the Insiders Health Family |
|
Hibiscus
Common names: Hibiscus, roselle, karkade, sour tea
Botanical names: Hibiscus sabdariffa, H. rosa
© Martin Wall
Parts used and where grown
Members of the Malvaceae family, various species of hibiscus are shrubs found practically around the globe. The flower of hibiscus is the part used as medicine. The most widely known and best-studied species tend to be annuals from the tropics, such as the two that are focused on here. There are, however, hardy perennial species that survive in colder climates. Another hibiscus not discussed here is Hibiscus esculenta, or okra.
Hibiscus has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Ratings | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
Hypertension Lice |
 |
Fever Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes |
 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit. |
|
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Teas made from hibiscus flowers and, occasionally, leaves are a very common beverage in tropical regions where they grow. The cool, astringent, acidic flavor is widely recognized and has made it a staple of “zinger” type teas in the United States. All parts of hibiscus plants are used traditionally. Due to their soothing (demulcent) and astringent properties, the flowers and leaves have been traditionally used to treat conditions such as cancer and gallbladder attacks, to lower blood pressure, to relieve dry coughs, and topically to treat skin afflictions.1 The root has been used as a tonic. The stems yield fibers that can be used to make rope or burlap.
Active constituents
The flowers contain substantial quantities of flavonoids and proanthocyanidins,2 which are associated with antioxidant, fever-reducing (antipyretic), pain-relieving (analgesic), and spasm-inhibiting (spasmolytic) activities.3 4 Of the many polysaccharides, the acidic polysaccharides show the most interesting properties. For example, they stimulate specialized skin cells which would presumably promote wound healing and these polysaccharides are also immune-modulating.5 6 There is also a high concentration (15 to 30%) of simple organic acids such as citric and malic acids.7
Complex extracts of hibiscus have shown other properties in the test tube and in animal studies, such as reducing skin cancer promoted by ultraviolet light, inhibiting herpes simplex virus, and lowering cholesterol levels.8 9 10 A variety of studies have looked at the potential use of hibiscus for male and female fertility regulation with mixed results.11 12 13
How much is usually taken?
Hibiscus is usually taken as tea. Clinical trials have used 1 to 2 tsp (3 to 6 grams) of dried flower infused in to 1 cup (250 ml) three times per day.14 One study used 500 ml of tea once a day before breakfast.15
Are there any side effects or interactions?
There are no known side effects from reasonable amounts of hibiscus.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with hibiscus. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References
(To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
Copyright © 2007 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.