Hibiscus flowers are used only in folk medicine. An endorsement of therapeutic use cannot be made due to lack of studies and evidence of efficacy. Therefore, hibiscus flowers have also been negatively evaluated by Commission E. However, the use of hibiscus flowers as a beautifying drug and flavor corrigendum is possible without hesitation.
Folk medicine application of hibiscus.
Hibiscus flowers are used in folk medicine for a wide range of ailments. Thus, among other things, the plant is used to treat loss of appetite, cold symptoms, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and stomach (catarrh), circulatory disorders and circulatory problems. Furthermore, the flowers are considered diuretic and expectorant.
In larger quantities, hibiscus flowers have a mild laxative effect due to the fruit acids they contain. The flowers are also contained in various ointments and decoctions for the treatment of allergic inflammatory reactions of the skin and other skin conditions. In African folk medicine, the drug is considered an antispasmodic, antibacterial, bile stimulant, and diuretic.
Aqueous extracts from the flowers are also said to lower blood pressure and relax the uterine muscles. However, hibiscus flowers, in addition to their therapeutic use, are mainly used as a tart, caffeine-free refreshing drink.
Hibiscus flowers in homeopathy.
Hibiscus flowers are not used in homeopathy.
Ingredients of hibiscus
The main component of hibiscus flowers are various fruit acids, including hibiscus acid, which is characteristic of the plant, and besides malic, tartaric, citric acid and vitamin C. The red color of the flowers is due to the content of anthocyanin. Aqueous extracts also contain up to 15% mucilage polysaccharides and about 2% pectins.
Hibiscus: indications
Hibiscus is used in the following cases (folk medicine only):
- Loss of appetite
- Common cold
- Catarrh
- Circulatory problems
- Circulatory problems
- Skin conditions
- As a laxative
