Hibiscus sabdariffa
Description: African folk medicine uses hibiscus as a diuretic, to relieve pressure in the gallbladder, and to relax the uterus. The mucliages in the herb make it a mild laxative, but they are also helpful when the herb is used as a wash to treat weeping eczema. Regular consumption of hibiscus teas often lowers blood pressure, typically 8 to 12 mm/Hg.
Hibiscus is also the source of the hydroxycitric acid (HCA, or hydroxycut) used in many diet formulas. This compound has been long used to fight obesity. Scientific studies with lab animals find that it stops the conversion of carbs in food to body fat. It fights appetite and encourages weight loss„not by increasing energy expenditure but by encouraging the "wasting" of carbohydrate. HCA does not enhance weight loss during low-carb or Atkins-style diets, but it does help weight loss when used with a program of general calorie restriction reducing consumption of carbs, protein, and fats equally.
Hibiscus powder will have more of a laxative effect than other forms of the herb. It delivers more HCA. It is also more likely to help lower LDL cholesterol, although definitive research of the use of this herb for controlling high cholesterol has not been completed.
Typical Preparations:
Hibiscus is available as a bulk tea and in tea bags, as well as an ingredient in tea mixtures. Can be used as a natural dye, and is incorporated in several cosmetics. Rarely found in capsule or extract form.
Medicinal Precautions:
Avoid if there are gallstones. Don't store hibiscus powder for more than six months after purchase. Keep in a cool, dry place.
Magickal Associations: Feminine, Venus, Water, Lust, love, divination, dreams. Attracts Love, Stimulates Lust , Divinitory.
What you receive: Herb that has been cut & sifted or ground and comes in a food grade poly Ziploc baggie to retain freshness.
