The vibrant flower Hibiscus comes in many colours and lights up even the dullest spaces. But did you know that the flower Hibiscus is also a treasure trove of health benefits? The beneficial properties of this versatile flower have been around for centuries, but in modern times, thanks to awareness, more people are adopting this wonder plant into their daily routines. What exactly are the benefits of the Hibiscus flower? Huda Shaikh Khan, Founder and Director of NutriBond, an online healthcare centre, shared her insights on the health benefits of Hibiscus. She also shared her expertise on her community called The Next Door Nutritionist on Coto, a women-only social community platform. She even shared various ways we can add Hibiscus to our daily diet.
What are the benefits of Hibiscus flower?
Potentially reduce the risk of heart issues
The Hibiscus plant is rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and anthocyanins. These components can help lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension by dilating the blood vessels. This study shows that a section of people who had high blood pressure consumed Hibiscus Tea and some others a placebo for a month. The results showed that for the ones who drank Hibiscus Tea, their systolic and diastolic blood pressure had gone down more than those who took a placebo.
It is used to treat fever
The cooling effect of Hibiscus is beneficial for individuals running high fever. One of the other benefits of Hibiscus is that it stimulates appetite. So, when one loses appetite due to fever, consuming Hibiscus can help revive their lost palate.
It has anti-inflammatory properties
One of the benefits of Hibiscus is its polyphenol and flavonoid content which are effective in reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a common factor that is found in many chronic conditions, including heart diseases, diabetes, arthritis and more. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus also restrict the growth of various bacteria and fungi in the body, which aids in promoting oral health and treating infections.
It can potentially help keep diabetes in check
This report by the National Library for Medicine states that numerous active compounds, like polyphenols, polysaccharides, organic acids, and pectins, can help manage blood sugar levels. This particular advantage of Hibiscus makes it a beneficial addition to the diet for those who are suffering from Type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing it. It can improve lipid profiles by lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) which leads to maintaining metabolic balance in the body.
It aids in weight loss
Another benefit of consuming Hibiscus is that it can promote and aid in weight loss when you are trying to shed off a few extra kilos. The natural compounds of Hibiscus have been found to inhibit the production of amylase, the enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates. This way it potentially reduces the absorption of starch in the body, helping in keeping your weight stable. Hibiscus is also low in calories, so its tea can be a great hydrating beverage.
How to incorporate Hibiscus into your diet?
By now, we know the multiple health benefits of Hibiscus and how it can aid in overall better health. But what are the several ways to have Hibiscus? Nutritionist and Dietician Huda Shaikh Khan shared some great ways to have Hibiscus to reap the maximum benefits.
Hibiscus Tea
This of course is the most common way to consume Hibiscus and derive its benefits — Hibiscus tea. This floral tea is low in calories and adds a great sour punch to the overall taste.
Hibiscus Lemon cooler
A great way to stay cool is to add a lot of cooling drinks to our diet. This Hibiscus Lemon cooler is a great way to get the maximum benefits of Hibiscus and simultaneously consume Vitamin C naturally, which will keep the body cool.
Hibiscus Kombucha
Think of a hot pink light drink that not only tastes divine but has a lot of health benefits as well. Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that helps improve digestion, boosts the immune system, lowers cholesterol levels, and supports heart health. Add the benefits of Hibiscus to that, and you have a recipe for improving your overall health.
Red hibiscus chutney
Yes, you heard that right. Have you ever imagined the good old Hibiscus flower as a chutney? We can tell you that it tastes super yummy. You can also use this chutney as a dip for your crackers, chips, or just about anything.
Millet Hibiscus Soup
When it comes to this humble but power-packed flower, there are several things you can cook with it. If you have never had a Millet Hibiscus soup, this is your sign to make yourself a bowl of this nutrient-packed soup.
Hero Image: Lidiya Pavlikova/Instagram; Featured Image: Courtesy Robert Thiemann/Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Hibiscus tea has several potential health benefits, like lowering blood pressure, preserving heart health, and aiding in weight loss, among other things.
Drinking Hibiscus Tea daily can be safe if you are drinking in moderation. There are no long-term studies on the effects of Hibiscus Tea, but some say that 2–3 cups per day can be beneficial.
Yes, you can consume Hibiscus flowers in moderate amounts in foods and tea, but it is better to consult your doctor or dietician first.
Yes, Hibiscus can be beneficial for hair when used as a hair mask or oil.
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Written by
Sreetama Basu
Digital Writer - Entertainment, Food & Drinks
A journalism student who studied the subject only to meet SRK in person, she settled for the best way to meet him. Covering Entertainment throughout her career, and now Food, Health and Lifestyle as well, Sreetama is also a self-proclaimed plant mom. In love with all things slow and quiet, she can often be found hunting for quiet corners with a glass of wine in hand. Other loves include little, inconsequential things, like neatly tucked-in bedsheets and big, significant things, like whole cheesecakes. She dreams of being a baker and writing about food someday.
