Hibiscus: A Plant with a Thousand Virtues to Discover
A natural treasure from Africa
In this article, we will discover or rediscover together the history of this often little-known plant and its health benefits.
History and origin
Hibiscus, also known as "roselle" or "Guinea sorrel", is an herbaceous plant native to Guinea. Its edible variety, Hibiscus sabdariffa, has spread throughout West Africa and around the Mediterranean.
The flowers of this plant, a beautiful red, sometimes slightly orange, are used to prepare delicious infusions with a tart taste reminiscent of cherry.
Depending on the country, it is called bissap, Zobo, dableni, karkadé, Pharaoh's drink, Abyssinian rose tea, rosella, or sorrel.
Traditional medicine
Hibiscus has been recognized for millennia in traditional medicine for its many health benefits. It is notably credited with digestive properties, the ability to relieve transit problems, moderate cholesterol levels, and combat cardiovascular problems. Moreover, hibiscus is known for its hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic effects.
Hibiscus infusion has always been particularly recommended to promote renal water elimination and relax intestinal muscles.
Results of modern research
Recent studies have confirmed the benefits of hibiscus. They have shown that hibiscus infusion can help relieve menstrual cramps thanks to its relaxing and analgesic properties on uterine muscles. Additionally, phytoestrogens present in hibiscus could alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Other studies also suggest that hibiscus could regulate cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. Similarly, thanks to its properties promoting good blood circulation in microvessels, it can relieve heavy legs and alleviate this unpleasant sensation.
Hibiscus is also recognized for its antioxidant properties, its potential to promote weight loss, its beneficial effect on liver health, and its antibacterial properties. These properties make it an ideal drink to maintain a balanced weight.
Bissap juice recipe
Bissap juice, a very popular refreshing drink in West Africa, is prepared by boiling hibiscus flowers in water, then optionally adding sugar, mint, ginger, or lemon to enhance the taste. You can consume it after cooling it in the refrigerator or with ice cubes.
To prepare a hibiscus infusion, let hibiscus flowers steep in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. If you want a more exotic flavor, add pieces of lemongrass stalks to the infusion.
You can enjoy this infusion both hot and cold. The longer you let the flowers steep, the pinker and tarter the infusion will be.
We recommend limiting the infusion time to 5 minutes for a more balanced drink.
Spice to enhance your dishes
With its notes reminiscent of tart cherry, hibiscus pairs perfectly with your dishes to create sweet/savory combinations.
Have you heard of hibiscus flower chicken? Infuse hibiscus flowers with lemongrass, lemon, honey, and ginger or cilantro to cook your chicken. You can also add coconut cream for more flavor, to be served with rice as a side dish.
In conclusion,
Hibiscus is a plant with multiple health benefits, supported by scientific studies. Whether as a hot or cold infusion, juice, or integrated into dishes, hibiscus offers you a tart and refreshing taste experience.
To fully benefit from the effects of hibiscus, it is recommended to be consistent in your consumption and drink 3 cups a day for a period of 4 to 6 weeks as a treatment.
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