Hibiscus Powder
Hibiscus is a tropical shrub with bright colored flowers. The flowers are found in various colors including red, purple, yellow, pink and white. It grows primarily in south-east Asia. In Ayurveda, the Hibiscus flower or JapaPushpa is dried, powdered and used for healing multiple ailments.
Health Benefits Of Hibiscus Powder
Manage Cholesterol
The hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of hibiscus make the perfect for heart health. Lower the glycemic and lipid levels of the body, lower the chance of blockage, cholesterol disorders and circulation issues. It also helps manage blood sugar levels and control diabetes.
Improves Digestion
As it is a mild diuretic, which eases constipation and regulates bowel movement. It also prevents colorectal cancer by keeping the gastrointestinal system healthy.
Prevents Anaemia
As hibiscus is high in iron, it increases the haemoglobin level in the body. This can prevent and even help in curing Anaemia.
Promotes Weight Loss
Hibiscus lowers the absorption of glucose and starch from carbohydrate rich foods. So, it helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
Controls Blood Pressure
Due to its anti-hypertensive properties, the flower controls pre-hypertension and mild-hypertension. Being a diuretic, it increases urination which also contributes to lower blood pressure. Anti-inflammatory properties also cause blood pressure to decrease.
Prevents Cancer
The anti-tumor and anti-oxidant properties of hibiscus powder prevent the growth of cancer cells.
Helps Treat Cold and Flu
Cold and flu symptoms can be reduced due to the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of hibiscus. The cooling effect from hibiscus can also lower a fever.
Cures Menstrual Pain
Hibiscus powder can cure menstrual pain by balancing hormones within the body. Its anti-depressant nature can also control menstrual symptoms like mood-swings and anxiety.
Properties Of Hibiscus Powder
- Anti-oxidant
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Digestive
- Anti-Bacterial
- Anti-Depressant
- Anti-Hypertensive
- Cardioprotective
- Hypolipidemic
- Hypoglycemic
- Diuretic
Nutritional Value Of Hibiscus Powder
- Iron
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
- Riboflavin
- Thiamine
- Niacin
- Vitamin C
Hibiscus Benefits For Skin
- Anti-ageing properties make skin firm and prevent wrinkles
- Regenerates skin cells by producing a mild exfoliating effect
- Removes dead skin cells to reveal softer and lighter skin
- Anti-oxidant properties keep skin healthy and glowing
- Removes acne due to anti-bacterial properties and presence of Vitamin C
Uses of Hibiscus Powder For Hair
- Reduces hair fall by strengthening roots. It can also help in curing alopecia
- Prevents premature greying and promotes fresh growth
- Nourishes scalp and hair
- Removes dandruff
Hibiscus Powder Face Mask – Add aloe vera gel and yoghurt to hibiscus powder and use as a cleansing and anti-ageing face pack.
Hibiscus Powder Face Scrub – Add a tablespoon of the powder to your regular scrub to enhance exfoliation and cell rejuvenation
Hibiscus Powder For Hair Color – Add powder to henna for a bright reddish-black color. Add it to coffee for a rich blackish-brown color.
Hibiscus Powder Hair Mask For Regrowth – Blend onions and hibiscus powder together to make a hair regrowth mask. Apply and rinse out with shampoo after 20 minutes.
Hibiscus Tea For Overall Health – You can steam the petals in water for 5 minutes to prepare hibiscus tea. This tastes like cranberry juice and can be enjoyed hot or cold. You can read about the benefits of hibiscus tea here.