Properties /Uses : The hibiscus is a tropical flower found in the south Asian continent. A large flowered plant characteristic by its colourful flower is very hardy plant growing up to 15 feet at times. Flowers of Hibiscus form the key ingredient in most extracts and are rich in mucilage, a complex mixture of polysaccharides that form a soothing gelatinous fiber when water is added. Mucilage is a good source of soluble fiber and is particularly recommended as a mild laxative and for soothing gastric diseases. The viscous fiber has several beneficial effects on digestion as it reduces bowel transit time thereby absorbing toxins from the bowel. The mucilage is said to enhance beneficial bacteria in the gut thus providing an excellent substrate for bacterial fermentation.

In addition to the above, the flowers of Hibiscus are said to contain 15-30% plant acids, including citric, malic and tartaric acids and a unique hydroxycitric acid called hibiscus acid which give the extract a pleasant tart taste..

The aqueous-extract of Hibiscus had a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle fibers and consequently exerted anti-hypertensive actions. However the underlying action mechanism had not been completely characterized.

Studies by scientists have referred that the extract of the hibiscus flower may have the same health benefits as red wine and tea.

Hibiscus extract, already used to give colour and flavour to beverages, contains many of the same antioxidant compounds as red wine, including flavonoids, polyphenols and anthocyanins, shown in research to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or 'bad' cholesterol.

In addition, the extract from hibiscus is useful in the use of face cream, after shave balm, day cream et