Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, known colloquially as Chinese hibiscus and Hawaiian hibiscus is a species of tropical hibiscus, a flowering plant of the family Malvaceae.

The flowers of Hibiscus are edible and are used in salads in the Pacific Islands. The flower is additionally used in hair care as a preparation.

In China, it is known as the ‘shoe flower’ because they use the hibiscus flower to polish their shoes. Hibiscus flower is a natural dye and was once used not just in paintings, but also as a natural blush and lipstick.

Hibiscus is a rich source of vitamin C which is essential to produce collagen in your body. This is the main ingredient that is necessary to keep your skin healthy, youthful and glowing. 

Therefore, drinking hibiscus tea regularly, helps your body to produce more collagen molecules.Because of the citrus-like taste, this flower is commonly used in soups, chutneys, salads and jams.

Benefits of Hibiscus Powder:

Stimulates hair growth

Naturally occurring amino acids in hibiscus flowers provide the hair with the nutrients help in promoting hair growth. These amino acids produce a special kind of structural protein called keratin, which is the building block of hair. 
 

Conditions hair

Hibiscus flowers and leaves contain a high amount of mucilage which acts as a natural conditioner. It’s because of this naturally occurring conditioner that crushed Hibiscus flowers and leaves feel slimy to the touch. 

Prevents baldness

The use of hibiscus is as effective as the drugs used to treat baldness (Minoxidil and Finasteride). In addition to being equally effective, Hibiscus doesn’t cause any of the harmful side effects associated with these drugs!

Treats dandruff and itchy scalp

Hibiscus acts like an astringent and reduces the oil secretion by the glands. Using Hibiscus leaves for hair maintains the pH balance of hair in addition to providing an overall soothing and cooling effect. 

Prevents premature greying

Traditionally, Hibiscus was used as a natural dye to mask grey hair. The antioxidants and vitamins present in Hibiscus help in producing melanin, the naturally occurring pigment that gives hair its natural color.

How to make Refreshing Hibiscus Tea:

• 1 to 2 teaspoon of Hibiscus Powder
• 2 cups Water
• 1 inch Ginger chopped
• 2 teaspoon Honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1. On medium heat, place water, ginger in a saucepan and bring it to rolling boil. Turn off the heat. 
2. Now add dried hibiscus powder and steep for 5 minutes or more if you want intense flavour.
3. Strain and pour hot hibiscus tea it in a glass, mix in honey and lime juice and enjoy.
4. Alternatively, let the tea cool down to room temperature, refrigerate for a couple of hours or until ready to serve.
5.  Pour over ice in a glass, mix in honey and serve iced  hibiscus tea.

Country of Origin :  India