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Hibiscus sabdariffa - Roselle
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a species of Hibiscus native to West Africa,[1] used for the production of bast fibre and as an infusion, in which it may be known as carcade.
Description
It is an annual or perennial herb or woody-based subshrub, growing to 2–2.5 m (7–8 ft) tall. The leaves are deeply three- to five-lobed, 8–15 cm (3–6 in) long, arranged alternately on the stems. The flowers are 8–10 cm (3–4 in) in diameter, white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base of each petal, and have a stout fleshy calyx at the base, 1–2 cm (0.39–0.79 in) wide, enlarging to 3–3.5 cm (1.2–1.4 in), fleshy and bright red as the fruit matures. They take about six months to mature.
Uses
- The plant is primarily cultivated for the production of bast fibre from the stem. The fibre may be used as a substitute for jute in making burlap.[2]
- Hibiscus, specifically roselle, has been used in folk medicine as a diuretic and mild laxative.[3]
- The green leaves are used like a spicy version of spinach. They give flavour to the Senegalese fish and rice dish thieboudienne.
- Brazilians attribute stomachic, emollient, and resolutive properties to the bitter roots.[4]
- The leaves are fried with garlic, dried or fresh prawns and green chili or cooked with fish. A light soup made from roselle leaves and dried prawn stock is also a popular dish.
- A meta-analysis conducted by the Cochrane hypertension group found there was insufficient evidence of a demonstrable benefit from roselle in reducing blood pressure for hypertensive patients. Other reviews have made similar conclusions.
- A meta-analysis conducted by the Cochrane hypertension group found there was insufficient evidence of a demonstrable benefit from roselle in reducing blood pressure for hypertensive patients. Other reviews have made similar conclusions.[5]
