Flowers & HERBS & nature
These are the reasons why you should stock up on it as well
Before the hibiscus begins to bloom, you should collect its leaves. However, after flowering, pay attention to the flowers. They are not only beautiful and fragrant, they also have medicinal effects. These are the TOP reasons why you should collect it too.
It has medicinal effects
Hibiscus, as it is properly called, contains mucilage, essential oil, sugar, starch and oil in all its parts, including flowers. In addition, it is rich in vitamin C, B vitamins, carotene, calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, selenium and potassium. The plant is popular thanks to its mud-removal effects. It brings relief for an irritated stomach, lowers blood pressure, helps with fever and bacterial infection.
Wide use
Most often, hibiscus is used in the form of tea. In the case of red flowers, it is also added to fruit tea blends due to its natural coloring ability.
But we will stay with the dye. Perhaps a less well-known use in our region, but common in eastern countries is the use of hibiscus for hair dyeing. Hibiscus has an acidic pH and, in combination with henna, can brighten orange and red shades. However, you can also make a hair wrap from hibiscus. It fights against dandruff, gray hair, thinning and hair loss. Gives hair shine and elasticity.
It is more common for us to prepare syrups and poultices, but hibiscus is also suitable for maceration in oil. Add it to desserts or directly to jams, it gives them a sour taste.
Almost any kind is suitable
There are many types of hibiscus. We grow the following:
Chinese hibiscus - the most widespread species grown in our country
Syrian hibiscus - does not contain as many beneficial substances as other species, but it is edible
large-flowered hibiscus - also known as swamp hibiscus or American hibiscus, has the largest flowers of all species
Sudanese hibiscus - also known as blood hibiscus, has medicinal effects and the ability to dye
pink hibiscus - has medicinal effects, also known as poplar
three-part hibiscus - commonly grows in Slovakia as well
edible hibiscus - also known as okra, whose fruits are very tasty and contain a lot of protein, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium