“Rosella is a flower that contains iron, vitamin C, and calcium. These good nutrients are beneficial in boosting immunity, overcoming coughs and colds, and preventing cancer.”
Rosella flower or Hibiscus sabdariffa is a plant commonly found in West Africa, the Caribbean and Central America. The petals are reddish brown and shaped like a hibiscus flower.
It contains protein, thiamine, riboflavin, calcium, iron, and vitamin C which are good for the body. Its uses range from boosting immunity to preventing cancer.
Ingredients in Rosella Flowers
In 100 grams of Hibiscus sabdariffa petals contain nutrients in the form of:
- Protein: 2 grams.
- Carbs: 10.2 grams.
- Fat: 0.1 gram.
- Thiamine: 0.05 milligrams.
- Riboflavin: 0.07 milligrams.
- Niacin: 0.06 milligrams.
- Vitamin C: 17 milligrams.
- Calcium: 150 milligrams.
- Iron: 3 milligrams.
In addition to some of the nutrients above, this herbal plant also contains organic acids, amino acids, minerals, and beta carotene.
Rarely Known Benefits of Rosella
There are various benefits of Hibiscus sabdariffa for health that are still rarely known, including:
1. Lower blood pressure
A spike in blood pressure in the body is a source of serious problems, such as heart disease, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease. In a clinical trial, consuming rosella flower tea has been shown to reduce high blood pressure in humans.
This efficacy was proven in a study entitled Effect of hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension, which was published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology and Research.
In one small study, 46 people with high blood pressure consumed rosella flower tea or a placebo. After one month, those who drank tea from this flower experienced a greater reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, than those who took the placebo.
2. Lower cholesterol
Cholesterol is a type of fat that functions to build walls inside cells (cell membranes) in the body. Although useful, if the levels exceed normal limits, cholesterol will accumulate in the blood vessels.
The impact, cholesterol will form plaque that has the potential to clog blood vessels. To reduce levels, you can consume tea from rosella flowers.
Several clinical studies have shown that Hibiscus sabdariffa can lower cholesterol levels, although the effect is only small. Experts also say that rosella can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Even so, more research is needed to confirm this.
3. Supports weight loss
Research also shows consumption of rosella extract can support weight loss, making it effective in preventing obesity. However, it is not yet known whether using rosella flowers directly as tea can give the same results.
4. Against bacteria
In a laboratory study, it was found that rosella flower extract can control certain types of bacteria in the body. Although this flower certainly has antibacterial properties, researchers are still studying its effectiveness in humans.
5. Maintain liver health
The next benefit of rosella flowers is to maintain a healthy heart. This benefit comes from flower extracts that work by protecting the liver from exposure to toxins that cause liver disease.\
6. Prevent cancer
Hibiscus sabdariffa contains compounds that can prevent cancer, namely polyphenols. A test tube study found the potential effects of rosella extract on cancer cells. One of them, namely its effectiveness in preventing the spread of human prostate cancer cells.
Meanwhile in another test-tube study, it was found that flower extract and its components were proven to be able to inhibit the growth of other cancer cells. Including breast cancer, stomach cancer, and skin cancer.
However, keep in mind, the test-tube study used high amounts of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract. Research in humans still requires evaluation, especially its effect on cancer.
7. Supports digestive health
Hibiscus sabdariffa in supplement form is both a diuretic and a tonic. Both can help increase the frequency of urination and bowel movements. Because of this, you can avoid constipation, even colorectal cancer.
8. Cure coughs and colds
In rosella contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in mild doses. In addition, vitamin C in it plays an important role in forming the immune system. The accumulation of all these properties and ingredients can be used as a supplement to help treat coughs and colds.
9. Increase immunity
Hibiscus sabdariffa is rich in ascorbic acid. This is a chemical compound that is also known as vitamin C. This essential nutrient is needed by the body to boost and stimulate immune activity.
When the immune system is primed, you will avoid various diseases caused by bacteria or viruses, such as the flu. In addition, this plant can also overcome discomfort due to fever.
10. Improve mental well-being
This benefit comes from the content of flavonoids which provide antidepressant effects. This ingredient works by calming the nervous system and reducing anxiety. In the end, it will create a relaxing sensation in the mind and body.
11. Relieve menstrual pain
The last benefit of rosella flowers is to relieve menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea. The content in it is calming cramps and balancing hormones in the body. Not only relieve pain, this flower can also improve mood.
How to Process Rosella Flowers
To maximize its benefits, you can consume the flowers or process them into tea. If consuming from the flower directly, this is the right way to make it:
- Pick flowers that have bloomed and wash them clean.
- Put the flowers in the boiling water and wait until they turn red.
- Remove and pour in a glass. Then, add honey or lemon juice to add flavor.
- The potion is ready to be enjoyed.
To make the tea, you can process it with:
- Dry the flowers that have bloomed.
- Put it in a glass or container, then flush it with hot water.
- Wait 5 to 15 minutes until the color turns reddish.
- Add honey or lemon juice to add flavor.
- The potion is ready to be enjoyed.
What Are the Side Effects of Rosella Flowers?
Although healthy, this herbal plant can also potentially cause side effects if consumed in excess. Some of the impacts include:
- Blood pressure drop. This problem can occur if consumed by people with hypotension. Users will experience dizziness, even fainting suddenly.
- Hallucinations. This problem is characterized by symptoms like a hangover. So, you should not drive after consuming it.
- Stimulate menstruation. This herbal plant can affect the hormone estrogen and increase the menstrual cycle. So, it is better for women who are undergoing a pregnancy program not to consume this flower.
- Allergy. This disorder is characterized by fever, red and watery eyes, skin rashes, and itching.
To be more on target, you need to consume the right dose.