Roselle is a hibiscus plant used for herbal remedies, teas, and culinary purposes. It has diuretic and antihypertensive qualities, can aid digestion, and heal skin problems. Its fruits are used in dishes and seasonings, and its seeds can be used as a coffee substitute.
Roselle is a type of hibiscus that grows white to pale yellow flowers that have a deep red spot on each petal. The plant produces bright red berries as it matures, which takes about six months. Roselle is often used as an herbal remedy for many different symptoms and ailments. Herbal remedies should not be used without first consulting with a doctor.
The roselle plant is used as a diuretic and laxative. The flower may also protect heart function in some patients. Herbal medicines and teas containing roselle may lower blood pressure because the plant is believed to have antihypertensive qualities. Other medicinal uses of roselle include teas to relieve coughs, aid digestion, encourage healthy kidney function, and soothe colds and sinus infections.
Roselle essential oil made from the seeds of the plant has been used to help heal sores and other skin problems. Lotions made from the leaves are also believed to help heal sores and wounds. The leaves of the plant can be heated and applied to the skin so that boils and ulcers mature and can be treated.
Roselle flowers are commonly used in herbal teas. The flowers give a bright red color to berry-flavored teas. Roselle tea is commonly sold on the street by vendors in Africa. This tea is an important part of Christmas celebrations in many parts of the Caribbean, and a brewery in Trinidad and Tobago makes a blended beer with roselle tea. In Thailand, the tea is often used as a treatment for high cholesterol.
The fruits are used in many different dishes and seasonings, and are often used in fruit salads. A garnish made of fruits and peanuts is common in Africa. Jams, jellies, and sauces often contain roselle fruit, especially when used as a pastry filling. Syrup made from the fruit is often added to frosting, pudding, and jelly.
Cold drinks made from the leaves and flowers of the plant are popular in Africa and the Caribbean. The drinks are often bottled and sold chilled, similar to lemonade. Spirits and wines made from the plant and its extracts are produced in Europe and the United States. Roselle seeds can be ground and roasted like coffee; Roselle coffee is more common in Africa than in other parts of the world.
The residue that remains after extracting the essential oil from the plant can be soaked in ash water for three to four days. The seeds are crushed and boiled for use in soups or breaded with bean flour due to the high protein content.
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