11/21/2022
The answer to this week’s Herbal Trivia question is Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa). "These malvaceae family flowers make a tart, pleasant-tasting tea that mildly lowers blood pressure and increases HDL cholesterol in type II diabetics."
Hibiscus flowers make a tart, pleasant-tasting tea that mildly lowers blood pressure. Use it with Du Zhong, Chrysanthemum flower and Linden flower. It is especially useful for hypertension associated with metabolic syndrome, as it also reduces blood sugar levels, LDL / VLDL cholesterol levels, and inhibits inflammation. A human trial found that type II diabetics had significant increases in HDL when taking Hibiscus.
The flowers are used in traditional medicine in India, China, Thailand, Jamaica, Africa, Hawaii, the Middle East, and the Philippines. It is frequently used in most of these countries for constipation, fevers, hypertension, damp coughs, menstrual cramps, hematuria, and urinary irritation. A human study found Hibiscus tea enhanced uric acid excretion making it of benefit for treating gout.
The flowers (as well as the root) have a long history of use in India for preventing conception. Animal studies indicate it has an anti-implantation effect as well as antispermotogenic activity. While it is unlikely to be a reliable method for contraception, it certainly should be avoided by couples trying to conceive.
Watch for an antiinflammatory beverage recipe featuring hibiscus later this month.
This blog is intended as an informational guide. The remedies, approaches and techniques described herein are meant to supplement, and not be a substitute for professional medical care or treatment. They should not be used to treat a serious ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health care professional. Photo: Kadoorie Farm, Hong Kong. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode.