Rosella flower, also known as hibiscus flower or Hibiscus sabdariffa, is a flower that grows on annual plants with a height of about 2-3 meters. This plant originates from tropical and subtropical regions, and has long been used as a traditional medicinal plant and food ingredient.
Rosella flowers have characteristics that are easy to recognize, which are shaped like a bell with red or dark red flower petals. When rosella flowers bloom, inside there are yellow stamens and long pistils. After blooming, this flower will be a capsule-shaped fruit that contains seeds.
Decorative plants
Besides being used as an ornamental plant, rosella flowers also have various uses. One of its main uses is for making rosella tea. Roselle flower buds are dried and used as a base for making a popular herbal tea. Rosella tea has a fresh sour taste and can be enjoyed both hot and cold.
In addition, rosella fruit is also used in making drinks such as juice, syrup or jam. The bright red fruit contains vitamin C, organic acids, fiber, and phytochemical compounds which give it a characteristic sour taste.
Food and Beverage Ingredients
Rosella flowers also have uses in the culinary field. In some traditional dishes and dishes, rosella flowers can be used as an additional ingredient to give an attractive sour taste and color.
Rosella flowers also have health properties, such as high antioxidant content, ability to lower blood pressure, and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, rosella flowers and products made from them are often used in traditional medicine and health supplements.
It is important to note that there are several species of hibiscus flower that may be referred to as “rosella” in different regions. Hibiscus sabdariffa is the species most commonly used in teas and foods, but there are other varieties with similar uses.
Benefits of Rosella Tea
Roselle tea, also known as hibiscus flower tea, is a herbal drink made from roselle flower buds (Hibiscus sabdariffa). Rosella tea has a number of known benefits. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Source of antioxidants:
Rosella tea is rich in antioxidant compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body that can cause cell damage and lead to various diseases.
- Lowers blood pressure:
Research has shown that consumption of rosella tea can help lower blood pressure in people with mild to moderate hypertension. Certain compounds in rosella tea work as a vasodilator, helping relax blood vessels and improve circulation.
- Lowering cholesterol levels:
Rosella tea is also associated with reduced levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in the blood. This can help maintain cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Lowers the risk of diabetes:
Several studies have shown that rosella tea can help control blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. This can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Maintain liver health:
Rosella tea has hepatoprotective properties, which means it can protect the liver from oxidative damage and inflammation. This can help maintain healthy liver function.
- Refreshing and hydrating:
Rosella tea has a fresh and refreshing taste. These drinks can also help keep the body hydrated because they contain water and natural electrolytes.
- Improves digestion:
Roselle tea has antispasmodic and mild diuretic properties, which can help improve digestion and reduce digestive problems such as constipation.
- Lose weight:
Rosella tea is low in calories and can help increase the body’s metabolism. It can support weight loss programs by reducing appetite and increasing fat burning.
However, keep in mind that the benefits of rosella tea are based on limited research, and the effects may vary between individuals. It is best to consult a health professional before making a decision to use rosella tea as a treatment or supplement.
Conclusion
Rosella flower tea is a herbal drink made from rosella flower buds (Hibiscus sabdariffa). This tea has a fresh sour taste and has a number of health benefits.
Some of its benefits include being a source of antioxidants, lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of diabetes, maintaining a healthy liver, refreshing and hydrating, improving digestion, and aiding in weight loss.
However, it is important to remember that these benefits are based on limited research, and it is best to consult a health professional before consuming rosella tea regularly.