In case you're interested, here's a some info on the plant.
Hibiscus is a bushy annual plant. Parts of the flower are used to make a popular drink in Egypt called Karkade. Various parts of the plant are also used to make jams, spices, soups, and sauces. The flowers are used to make medicine.
Hibiscus is used for treating loss of appetite, colds, heart and nerve diseases, upper respiratory tract pain and swelling (inflammation), fluid retention, stomach irritation, and disorders of circulation; for dissolving phlegm; as a gentle laxative; and as a diuretic to increase urine output.
In foods and beverages, hibiscus is used as a flavoring. It is also used to improve the odor, flavor, or appearance of tea mixtures.
Hibiscus is used for treating loss of appetite, colds, heart and nerve diseases, upper respiratory tract pain and swelling (inflammation), fluid retention, stomach irritation, and disorders of circulation; for dissolving phlegm; as a gentle laxative; and as a diuretic to increase urine output.
In foods and beverages, hibiscus is used as a flavoring. It is also used to improve the odor, flavor, or appearance of tea mixtures.
How does it work?
The fruit acids in hibiscus may work like a laxative. Some researchers think that other chemicals in hibiscus might be able to lower blood pressure; decrease spasms in the stomach, intestines, and uterus; and work like antibiotics to kill bacteria and worms.
Every plant seems to have a use in aiding us. It's a matter of if you're brave enough to try it as our ancestors did. Most of us run to the nearest doctor's clinic or hospital for every sign of ill health.
But here's something very interesting about the leaves!
Hibiscus leaves have a blackening characteristic that is sometimes used to make black dyes for products such as mascara and shoe polish. Mild shampoos and conditioners made with the leaves are said to be effective for softening the scalp and hair. Baby shampoos and healing lotions also may contain them.
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-are-the-uses-of-hibiscus-leaves.htm
Here are 2 more links to more info about the hibiscus with regards to making natural hair shampoo. Very interesting!
http://suziehq.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-Make-Paste-Shampoo-from-Fresh-Hibiscus-Flowers-and-Leaves
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Shampoo-With-Hibiscus-Flowers-and-Leaves
Now I understand why my ex-colleague's family used it when she was growing up in India!
vkm
No comments:
Post a Comment