Uses for the Hibiscus Herb, Herbal Medicine Plant.

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Hibiscus

Uses for the Hibiscus Herb

Hibiscus are grown easily in warm climate zones.

Hibiscus is a beautiful flowering shrub that comes in numerous varieties. These plants grow well and flower profusely in tropical and warm southern climates. They are a common part of the decor and traditions of the Hawaiian islands and are the state flower. Their large flowers commonly appear in shades of red, yellow or white. A member of the mallow family, it's close relations include okra, hollyhock, Turk's cap and other mallows. The plant overall has several uses from food to medicine.

1.      Tea and Food

o     Different hibiscus varieties are used in the making of tea or as a vegetable. The capsules are used in soups and for pickles. The seeds, which are kidney-shaped and very small, are used mixed with coffee in some Middle-East countries. The blossoms are sometimes dried or eaten fresh in salads and desserts. Syrups, jams and jellies, yogurt, ice-cream and butter are made from the flowers.

Medicinal 1

o     The hibiscus plant has enjoyed a rich medicinal history since ancient times and in various cultures. It has been regarded as an antispasmodic, and Egyptians are known to chew the musk variety seeds to calm the nerves, ease the stomach and sweeten the breath. The seeds are also used in some places as both an aphrodisiac and an insecticide. If made into an emulsion combined with milk, relief from itching can result.

Medicinal 2

        Other uses for different varieties of hibiscus include its therapeutic, anti-bacterial reagent, and laxative properties. It helps combat hypertension, or high blood pressure, and is a cholesterol-reducing medicine. Hibiscus has antioxidant activity, too. It reduces fevers, boosts the immune system and lowers toxic levels within the liver. The leaves and flowers can be used as soothing reagents for coughs and to help with the loss of appetite.

Other Use

o    Hibiscus is used as a dye in some parts of the world. In India and Jamaica, it is often called the "shoe-flower", referring to the use of crushed flowers as a black shoe polish. Some cultures use the plant to make hair coloring. The wood of sea hibiscus is used for the fiber and in making ropes or "rosella hemp". The wood is burned for fires. The musk type, or target -eaved hibiscus, parts are used in perfume making for fats and oils and the adulteration of musk.