Hibiscus: a flower of the heart.

Hibiscus (also known as roselle, red sorrel, karkadé, or jamaica) is a solar (Sun) herb which is sometimes associated with Venus. It is used for dream work, clairvoyance, enhancing psychic ability, and divination. It is also used as an ingredient in aphrodisiacs and in love magic. It is helpful in all matters of the heart.

In medicine, Hibiscus is best known for lowering blood pressure.

There are over 200 different species of hibiscus, so make sure you are getting the correct flowers or plant for use in anything you may consume or put on your skin. Reputable sources are ethnic markets, where the flowers are sold fresh or dried, and online sources.

In Egypt and Africa, hibiscus tea is an ancient treatment for lowering body temperature (fever), and for treating heart and nerve diseases. It is also used to treat constipation, cancer, liver disease, and cold symptoms. It is mildly diuretic.

Hibiscus strengthens the immune system by providing vitamin C and antioxidants.

Pulp made from the flowers and leaves is used to treat sunburn and heal wounds.

There is some indication that hibiscus can be helpful in treating high cholesterol, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Hibiscus is a natural source of AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and as such it is good for exfoliation and skin care.

In Egypt and Sudan, hibiscus tea is traditionally used in wedding toasts. Known as “Sour tea”, it is popular in Iran and the middle east. In Latin America, it is known as jamaica. In the Caribbean, it is known as sorrel drink, where it is a traditional Christmas and New Year’s brew.

Culinary hibiscus is delicious, punchy, tart, and has a gorgeous deep red color whether used in tea or other recipes.

It's so pretty!

Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy Hibiscus:

Agua de Jamaica: simple cold brew

• 1 (up to 2 liters) pitcher of cold, filtered water

• 3/4 cup whole dried hibiscus flowers

Directions: 

Steep in the fridge for up to 12 hours. Steeping too long may cause the tea to become too tart or bitter, so check it frequently to make sure it is to your taste. Strain, and add ice and sweetener to taste.

Cold brew with various flavorings: try 1 cinnamon stick, a teaspoon of rose water, a few sprigs of thyme, and/or fresh mint.

Mita’s Tea 

An original blend, good for headaches. 

Directions:

Combine equal parts dried lemon balm, crushed dried hibiscus flowers, and dried peppermint. Brew hot, but you can serve this hot or chilled, with a little raw honey.

Sour-heart Valentine’s Cake:

A pink, lemony cake flavored with hibiscus, topped with cream cheese hibiscus tea frosting and sugared lemon zest. 

Something sweet, even for the broken-hearted.

Check back here; cake recipe coming soon!