Jamaica Flower: What Is It for and What Are Its Benefits?

The hibiscus flower, whose scientific name is ( Hibiscus sabdariffa) and is also known as Abyssinian rose, is a herbaceous plant that can reach 3 to 5 meters in height. It is a plant native to Africa and great medicinal properties are attributed to it.

It is rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and polyphenols. The scientific journal Food and Chemical Toxicology notes that anthocyanins help prevent liver injury and inflammation, while polyphenols protect cells against oxidative stress.

The University of Michigan explains that oxidative stress is related to conditions such as obesity, lupus, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, eye problems, cardiovascular conditions and some types of cancer.

It also has positive effects on blood pressure, according to an article published in The Journal of Nutrition, which concluded that taking three cups of hibiscus tea a day helps regulate it. After six weeks of use, 65 adults with prehypertension or mild hypertension demonstrated a significant decrease in their systolic pressure.

Other benefits of the hibiscus flower are related to the amount of vitamins A, C, B1 and E, and minerals such as iron, phosphorus and calcium. Vitamin C, specifically, protects against premature aging.

When consumed in the form of tea, this plant relieves insomnia, flu processes and eruptive skin diseases. It helps prevent respiratory infections, anemia, and fatigue, while it can help cleanse the liver and kidneys.

The infusion of Jamaica flower can lower cholesterol levels , thereby also lowering the risk of heart disease. The plant contains significant amounts of antioxidants that act as cleaners of the blood arteries, preventing the accumulation of cholesterol plaques in them.

Hibiscus flower can help you lose weight.

According to an article published in the Very Interesting magazine of Mexico, the infusion of this plant reduces “bad” cholesterol by up to 35%, and triglycerides by up to 19% in 99% of cases. This was concluded in investigations carried out with people who had very high levels of such lipids and who for a year consumed hibiscus flower water at will.

This drink also helps to keep fit, as it contributes to the prevention of obesity. Thanks to the saturation of the active substances, it stimulates the metabolism, activates the digestion process and the expulsion of unwanted and potentially toxic compounds for the body.

By having polyphenols, mainly anthocyanins, phenolic compounds and flavonoids, according to some scientific studies it could, for example, regulate some genes responsible for inhibiting the production of fatty acids in the liver; decrease the absorption of fats in the intestine and help burn accumulated fat in the body.

Similarly, inhibit the activity of some pancreatic and intestinal enzymes, which are responsible for digesting and promoting the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestine, in addition to reducing insulin resistance, helping to regulate blood sugar.

In addition to this, hibiscus water could also help regulate appetite, since it could influence some hormones that are responsible for regulating it, such as ghrelin and leptin.

In the same way, it helps to strengthen the immune system. The large reserves of vitamin C contained in the Jamaica flower strengthen the human body. Other minerals, such as iron and potassium, also contribute to the balance of the immune system. Additionally, hibiscus flower tea has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Another of its benefits is that it helps in the recovery of the premenstrual syndrome. Jamaica tea has antidepressant and antispasmodic effect that helps to overcome premenstrual ailments. On the other hand, the plant can increase estrogen levels and, therefore, alter the hormonal balance. It is recommended to abstain from its consumption by pregnant women.

READ ALSO :

What are the health benefits of consuming garlic on an empty stomach?