Hibiscus - tropical rose for beauty and health

The Hibiscus is a beautiful and diverse group of flowers, composed of about 300 species, which belong to the family of Malvaceae. It is cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant, but is also known for its medicinal properties. This article will provide a description of hibiscus, discuss its history, and provide information on its cultivation as an herb.

Hibiscus is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant with attractive, colourful flowers that can be white, pink, red, yellow, orange or even purple. The flowers are large and usually have five bottle-shaped petals. Hibiscus leaves are green and have long petioles. The plant can be compact, but in certain conditions can grow to a height of about 2 metres.

Hibiscus has a rich history and has been cultivated by humans in various cultures for thousands of years. Its origins are associated with tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is known by different names in different regions of the world. In ancient Egypt, hibiscus was associated with the goddess of beauty and love, Hathor. It was used in the rituals and cosmetics of the ancient Egyptians. Hibiscus is also widespread in India, where it is called 'jasminchakra' in Hindi. In Indian culture, it is used in many aspects of daily life, including as a flavouring, herb and even as a cosmetic product.

Hibiscus is a plant that is easily and successfully grown in a variety of climates. Here are some tips for growing it successfully.

• Temperature conditions: hibiscus likes heat and light. Warm places with protection from cold and strong winds are preferred. The plant can grow successfully both outdoors and in pots that can be moved according to the weather.
• Soil: Hibiscus prefers well-drained soil with a slight acidity. You can use a mixture of clay, perlite and peat to grow it in a pot.
• Watering: Regular and abundant watering is important, especially during the warm summer months. Make sure that the soil remains moist but does not overflow, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilizing: Hibiscus needs regular fertilizing during the growing season. Use a suitable liquid or granular fertiliser rich in potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen.
• Pruning: Prune the hibiscus to form the desired shape and remove wilted or damaged foliage.
• Overwintering: If you are growing hibiscus outdoors in a colder region, you may need cold-hardy varieties or move the plant indoors during the colder months.
• Pests and diseases: watch out for pests such as aphids, ants and spiders that can attack hibiscus. The use of natural pest control methods is preferred to avoid harming beneficial insects such as bees.

Hibiscus is not only a beautiful ornamental plant, but also an herb with significant health benefits. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine in many cultures around the world. Here are some of the main health benefits:

• Helps heart health: hibiscus contains anthocyanins and flavonoids, which can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood pressure. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve heart health.
• Antioxidant Action: Hibiscus contains anthocyanins, vitamin C and other antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body. This helps protect cells from oxidative stress and can help in the aging process.
• Improves The Immune Vitamin C, which is found in hibiscus, supports the immune system and helps the body fight infections and diseases.
• Aids digestion: Hibiscus is traditionally used as a digestive tonic and digestive aid. It can help with some dyspeptic symptoms such as gas and bloating.
• Detoxifies the body: Hibiscus is detoxifying and can help in removing toxins from the body.
• Helps control weight: Trying hibiscus tea can help with weight control by reducing appetite and helping metabolism.
• Supports the function of KidneyA: Hibiscus has a diuretic effect that can help remove excess fluid from the body and support kidney function.
• Improves the skin: hibiscus extract is used in the cosmetic industry for its hydrating and rejuvenating properties on the skin.

The composition of hibiscus herb can vary depending on the particular species or variety. In general, hibiscus contains various active constituents that give the plant its medicinal properties and nutritional value. Here are some of the main ingredients found in hibiscus:

• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C): Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals in the body and supports the immune system.
• Anthocyanins: These are phytochemicals that give hibiscus different colours, such as red, pink, purple and blue. Anthocyanins are also antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flavonoids: These are another type of phytochemicals found in hibiscus. They are also antioxidants and support the overall health benefits of the plant.
• Organic acids: Hibiscus contains various organic acids, such as malic, hydroxycitric and citric acids. These acids give hibiscus a slightly sour taste and can be beneficial for digestion and detoxification of the body.
• Vitamins and minerals: Hibiscus also contains other vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins (e.g. folic acid), calcium, magnesium, iron and others that are important for maintaining health.
• Phytosterols: These are plant sterols that also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and are considered beneficial for heart health.
• Pectin: Hibiscus contains pectin, which is a type of soluble fiber that can support gut health and reduce cholesterol levels.

These are some of the key ingredients of hibiscus that contribute to its medicinal and nutritional properties.

Hibiscus is most commonly used in the form of tea or dietary supplements, but is also found as a coloring agent in various organic and health recipes.

Although hibiscus has been proven beneficial, it is always advisable to consult a health professional before using it as a supplement to your diet or to treat certain health problems.

• Pregnancy and lactation: Hibiscus can affect estrogen levels and act as an emmenagogue (aids in the onset of menstruation). It is therefore advisable that pregnant women avoid consuming hibiscus.
• Interaction with medications:If you are taking medications, it is a good idea to consult a health professional before using hibiscus as some ingredients may interact with certain medications.
• Allergies: Hibiscus can cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other plants in the Malvaceae family.
• Contraindications for specific diseases: Hibiscus may have some contraindications in people with diseases such as diabetes, low blood pressure, kidney problems, etc. Therefore, it is a good idea to consult a health professional if you have such health conditions.

Hibiscus is a beautiful and useful herb with significant health benefits. Its flowers can be used to make delicious teas, iced drinks and syrups. However, before using it for medicinal purposes, it is important to consult a health professional to make sure there are no contraindications for your particular health.
Choose fragrant, colorful and useful tea with hibiscus from Bulgarian Tea Company.