- Region
- Africa
- Origin
- Probably Africa; Hibiscus sabdariffa, later spread to Asia and the Caribbean
Africa · Food · № 25
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Food · Africa
Roselle (hibiscus)
Hibiscus sabdariffa
The red calyces make a tart drink. Folk medicine links it to blood pressure; it is not a substitute for treatment.
Safety notes
As a drink it is a food. Do not use it in place of blood pressure treatment, and ask for advice if you take medicines.
Preparation
Dried calyces are steeped hot or cold, often with sugar, fruit juice, ginger, or other spices.
Use in traditions
In Sudan and Egypt the drink is called karkadé, in Nigeria zobo. This West African drink tradition lives on in the Caribbean and in African American 'red drinks'.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
The flowers contain plant acids and mucilage and are used in skin care for soft, supple skin.
Preparation and amount
External: dried hibiscus flowers in a beauty salve with lavender and rose petals (see the recipe).
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Opens the heart to love, helps make decisions about the future, lets go of fears, love, lust, divination, harmony, peace.
Herbal magic and rituals
Attributed effects
In herbal magic associated with love, an open heart and hospitality.
Preparation and amount
The red calyces make bissap in West Africa, karkadé in Egypt, and agua de jamaica and sorrel, a Christmas drink, in Mexico and the Caribbean. In Egypt karkadé is drunk at celebrations and weddings.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Salve and balmPowder and kitchen