Hibiscus: Properties, Benefits, and Plant Care

Hibiscus: Properties, Benefits, and Plant Care

How to Grow Hibiscus and What Is This Plant Used For? Guide to Care and Uses of Hibiscus

The hibiscus is a fascinating plant, appreciated for its beauty and its numerous beneficial properties. Belonging to the Malvaceae family, this plant of exotic origins has spread to various parts of the world, capturing the interest of gardening enthusiasts and those seeking natural remedies. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of hibiscus, from its origin and spread to cultivation and care techniques. We will also discover the valuable properties and benefits this plant offers, as well as its various uses, from cosmetics to culinary fields.

dried hibiscus flowers

Hibiscus (Hybiscus)

The hibiscus (Hibiscus L., 1753) is a genus of plants belonging to the Malvaceae family, which includes over 400 species. The name derives from Greek and was likely assigned by Dioscorides.

This fascinating flower shares its botanical family with other well-known plants such as mallow, the cotton plant (Gossypium), and the linden. Among the most well-known species are the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, known as the flower hibiscus or Chinese hibiscus, the Hibiscus syriacus, called Syrian hibiscus and appreciated as a terrace and garden plant, the Hibiscus sabdariffa, from which the karkadé drink is obtained, and the Hibiscus esculentus, whose fruits are used in African and tropical cuisine under the name gombo or okra.

The hibiscus stands out for its exotic beauty and its numerous beneficial properties, making it a highly appreciated plant both in ornamental and natural wellness contexts.

The Karkadé infusion by Terzaluna is the ideal choice for those seeking a refreshing drink and wanting to enjoy the benefits of hibiscus. Made from the flowers of Hibiscus sabdariffa, this infusion with an intense red color offers a slightly tangy taste and numerous benefits. Choose Terzaluna to ensure a superior quality product, carefully selected to offer you the best of nature.

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Origin and Spread

The hibiscus has a fascinating history rooted in ancient Eastern cultures. Native to South Asia and the Pacific islands, this flower has been used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. In Malaysia, the Chinese hibiscus is considered the national flower, symbolizing couple fidelity over time and an invitation to seize the moment. In Chinese medicine and Tantra meditation practices, hibiscus flowers are believed to promote well-being and concentration.

The spread of hibiscus has reached a cosmopolitan dimension, embracing the tropical and temperate areas of America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Particularly appreciated in Central America and Hawaii, where species from China have crossed with endemic ones creating spectacular plants, hibiscus also boasts large cultivations in Australia and New Zealand. In Italy, the quintessential hibiscus is the Hibiscus syriacus, a deciduous shrub widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens and urban decor. Other species present in Italy include the Hibiscus palustris, the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, and the Hibiscus trionum. In central and southern Italy, the Hibiscus roseus adorns slopes and riverbanks with its large, vibrant pink flowers.

Hibiscus Plant

The hibiscus is a fascinating plant that can appear as small trees, shrubs, or annual or perennial herbaceous plants. The genus Hibiscus includes over 200 species, each with distinctive characteristics. The hibiscus plant can reach a considerable height, exceeding 2 meters in the more vigorous species. The bark is typically gray, while the leaves are a deep dark green, often palmate with toothed edges.

What makes the hibiscus such a beloved plant are its spectacular flowers. Large and showy, they can reach up to 8 cm in diameter and display a range of vibrant colors such as pink, red, yellow, orange, and white. Each flower consists of 5 delicate petals and a prominent central staminal column that adds an extra touch of beauty.

The hibiscus has a cosmopolitan distribution, being widespread in tropical and temperate areas around the world. It can adapt to various habitats but prefers sunny areas and well-drained soils. Some species, such as the swamp hibiscus (Hibiscus palustris), are found near swamps or slow-moving water bodies, forming large colonies.

Whether it is a majestic shrub or a delicate herbaceous plant, the hibiscus offers a spectacle of colors and shapes that enchant the eyes and the heart. Its exotic beauty and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardens, parks, and urban spaces worldwide.

Cultivation and Care of Hibiscus

The cultivation of hibiscus can bring great satisfaction to gardening enthusiasts. To choose the ideal plant, it is important to consider the variety of colors and patterns of the flowers, which range from white to deep red, including all shades of yellow and orange. Specimens with already open flowers and many buds are the most promising, as the buds will bloom within a few days. During transport, it is crucial to avoid exposing the hibiscus to extreme temperatures.

Regarding placement, the hibiscus loves sunny and warm positions, sufficiently humid. It is not particularly demanding about the type of soil, as long as it is fertile and fresh. The Hibiscus syriacus, in particular, withstands drought periods and cold well, requiring only frequent pruning to maintain a compact shape.

In homes or on balconies, the hibiscus should be placed in a shaded spot, away from windows or doors frequently opened in winter and from direct heat sources. After purchase, it is advisable to repot the plant in a slightly larger container, using specific soil for flowering plants or high-quality universal soil. Wilted flower stems and dry leaves should be removed to encourage the formation of new shoots.

Watering should be regular, every 2-3 days in summer and once a week in winter, avoiding water stagnation in the saucer. The hibiscus has a high nutritional requirement and needs frequent fertilization from April to September, every 8 days, and from October to March, every 20 days.

It is important not to overdo the fertilizer doses and to moisten the soil before fertilizing. To maintain adequate humidity, the plant can be placed on a saucer with clay balls immersed in a thin layer of water. Weekly checks of the leaves, shoots, and buds will allow for the timely detection of any infestations.

In case of problems, such as the presence of insects or leaf drop, there are specific remedies to adopt. With the right attention and care, the hibiscus will reward the gardener with spectacular and lasting blooms, adding a touch of exoticism and beauty to gardens, terraces, and indoor environments.

Properties and Benefits of Hibiscus

The hibiscus is not only an ornamental plant of extraordinary beauty but is also of interest for its potential benefits and properties. The flowers of this plant are rich in vitamin C, making them traditionally used as a natural remedy against colds, coughs, and bronchitis. Additionally, hibiscus extract contains organic acids such as citric, malic, and hibiscic acid, which are attributed beneficial effects on the skin.

In the cosmetic field, hibiscus extract is used to improve complexion by reducing pigmentation irregularities and age spots. The acids present in hibiscus flowers have an exfoliating action, gently removing dead cells and stimulating cell renewal.

Regarding skin health, it is suggested that hibiscus may possess anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce skin impurities. Some sources also indicate that hibiscus may slow down collagen loss, maintaining skin elasticity and counteracting signs of aging.

The beneficial properties of hibiscus also extend to internal use. Hibiscus flower infusion, known as karkadè, is consumed mainly during the summer months for its refreshing and thirst-quenching properties. This infusion, rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids, is traditionally used in some cultures to improve blood circulation and as a natural remedy for coughs and colds. Studies suggest that consuming hibiscus may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure and lipid profile, reducing systolic and diastolic pressure, as well as LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, further research is needed to confirm these effects and better understand the mechanisms involved.

In phytotherapy, hibiscus is used in the form of dry extracts, infusions, powders, and mother tincture to exploit its refreshing, thirst-quenching, laxative, diuretic, vitaminizing, and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots of hibiscus are used in various fields, from salads for their refreshing properties to bitters due to the bitter taste of the roots.

Despite the promising effects, it is important to remember that further studies are needed to confirm the benefits attributed to hibiscus and to evaluate its long-term safety.

[Hopkins AL, Lamm MG, Funk JL, Ritenbaugh C. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. In the treatment of hypertension and hyperlipidemia: A comprehensive review of animal and human studies. Fitoterapia 2013, Mar;85:84-9.]

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Uses of Hibiscus

Hibiscus is an extraordinary plant that offers a wide range of uses, from decorating gardens and terraces to preparing teas and cosmetic products. Let's discover together the many ways this natural wonder can be employed.

  • Ornamental: The hibiscus is widely appreciated as an ornamental plant for its exotic beauty and spectacular blooming. The Hibiscus syriacus, also known as the Rose of Sharon, is one of the most commonly used species for decorative purposes. This hardy and cold-resistant variety is cultivated both in the ground and in pots, forming isolated small trees or flowering hedges with vibrant colors such as white, pink, purple, and lilac. Another beloved species is the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, the Chinese hibiscus. With its persistent oval leaves of an intense glossy dark green and large funnel-shaped bright red flowers, this plant adds a touch of elegance to gardens in mild climates. In regions with harsh winters, the Chinese hibiscus is grown in pots and sheltered in greenhouses during the cold season.
  • Medicinal: Hibiscus boasts numerous properties, confirmed by modern research. All parts of the plant, from leaves to flowers, seeds to roots, possess beneficial virtues. Hibiscus acts as an antiseptic, astringent, emollient, digestive, diuretic, calming, and tonic. The leaves have emollient, diuretic, and sedative properties, while the petals, seeds, and mature calyxes are diuretic and antiscorbutic. Hibiscus flowers are an excellent ingredient for natural shampoos. The flower extract is often used in remedies for liver disorders and hypertension. The bitter roots are used as appetizers and tonics, in addition to having pronounced emollient qualities, making them useful against coughs.
  • In the kitchen: The flowers of Hibiscus sabdariffa are the primary ingredient for the preparation of karkadè, a delightful tea with a slightly tangy flavor and intense red color. Besides being consumed as a refreshing beverage, karkadè is also used in cooking for making jams. Hibiscus flowers can be used to flavor sauces, jellies, and wines, while the tender leaves are excellent in salads.
  • Skin care: The hibiscus extract is used as an ally for skin beauty and health. The hibiscus acids contained in the extract have an exfoliating action, promoting the removal of dead cells and stimulating cell renewal. This effect results in a brighter, more even, and youthful complexion. Additionally, hibiscus can help slow down collagen loss, thanks to its ability to inhibit the enzymes that degrade this important structural protein of the skin. Used in synergy with other natural ingredients, hibiscus extract helps maintain skin elasticity and counteract the signs of aging.
  • Other uses: Hibiscus is also used in other sectors. For example, Hibiscus cannabinus is used in the paper industry for its high cellulose content and in the textile industry similarly to hemp. In Polynesia, hibiscus is a traditional flower worn in the hair by girls, while boys place it on their right ear if they are engaged and on their left ear if they are single. In the language of flowers, giving a hibiscus to a loved one means exalting their beauty, while different varieties and colors can convey specific messages, from loyalty to rejection, from the patience of the suitor to a broken heart.

In conclusion, hibiscus proves to be an extraordinary plant, capable of enriching our lives in multiple ways. Whether it's beautifying our green spaces, taking care of our health, or expressing our feelings, this marvel of nature offers us a fascinating array of possibilities.

Contraindications

Despite the numerous benefits of hibiscus, it is important to be aware of some contraindications related to its use.

When consumed as an infusion, karkadè can have a mildly laxative effect, so it is advisable not to consume it in excessive quantities. Additionally, special attention should be paid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as hibiscus may stimulate uterine contractions and affect breast milk production.

People who suffer from hypotension should consult a doctor before regularly consuming hibiscus-based products, as this plant can further reduce blood pressure.

However, if taken at the recommended doses, hibiscus does not present particular side effects and can be safely integrated into the daily routine by most people.

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