Rosella Hibiscus
What is Rosella Hibiscus?
Rosella Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), also known as Roselle, is a species of hibiscus native to Africa but widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is well known for its bright red calyces, which are used to make herbal teas, jams, sauces, and medicinal extracts.
Key Features of Rosella Hibiscus:
- Appearance: The plant has reddish stems, green leaves, and large, pale yellow or pink flowers with a dark center.
- Edible Parts: The most commonly used part is the fleshy red calyx (the part that surrounds the seed pod). The leaves and flowers are also edible.
- Taste: The calyx has a tart, cranberry-like flavor, making it popular in teas and drinks.
- Health Benefits: It is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenols, often linked to benefits such as reducing blood pressure, supporting liver health, and improving digestion.
- Uses:
- Tea: Dried calyces are brewed into a deep red, tangy herbal tea (hibiscus tea).
- Food: Used in jams, syrups, chutneys, and desserts.
- Traditional Medicine: Used in various cultures to manage high blood pressure, infections, and inflammation.
Having never tried Hibiscus except for the dried leaves for tea, I decided I wanted to try the fleshy red part. It is good, but sour!
What is Rosella Hibiscus?
Rosella Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), also known as Roselle, is a species of hibiscus native to Africa but widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is well known for its bright red calyces, which are used to make herbal teas, jams, sauces, and medicinal extracts.
Key Features of Rosella Hibiscus:
- Appearance: The plant has reddish stems, green leaves, and large, pale yellow or pink flowers with a dark center.
- Edible Parts: The most commonly used part is the fleshy red calyx (the part that surrounds the seed pod). The leaves and flowers are also edible.
- Taste: The calyx has a tart, cranberry-like flavor, making it popular in teas and drinks.
- Health Benefits: It is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenols, often linked to benefits such as reducing blood pressure, supporting liver health, and improving digestion.
- Uses:
- Tea: Dried calyces are brewed into a deep red, tangy herbal tea (hibiscus tea).
- Food: Used in jams, syrups, chutneys, and desserts.
- Traditional Medicine: Used in various cultures to manage high blood pressure, infections, and inflammation.
Having never tried Hibiscus except for the dried leaves for tea, I decided I wanted to try the fleshy red part. It is good, but sour!