Hibiscus is a stunning ornamental plant that is widely known for its exquisite flowers, available in a vast range of bright, vibrant colors. Its blooms are simply mesmerizing, making it a favorite among gardeners and horticulturists alike. But Hibiscus is not just a feast for the eyes; it offers a plethora of benefits for our skin and body.
Belonging to the Mallow family, Hibiscus comprises over 200 species and more than 5000 hybrids, each with its unique characteristics and colors. In this case, the oil is extracted from the seeds of Hibiscus sabdariffa, a species with red-centered flowers known as "Roselle." It is crucial to note that Roselle Hibiscus is not the same as the common types of Hibiscus used in gardens and landscaping, such as Hibiscus syriacus. To avoid any confusion, you can see clear and distinctive representations of Hibiscus Roselle in the pictures above. After the fruit of Roselle is gathered and de-cored two weeks after flowering, the seeds are cold-pressed and lightly filtered, resulting in this organic Roselle Hibiscus oil.
Roselle Hibiscus is a remarkable ingredient for skincare products due to its multitude of benefits for our skin. It is often referred to as the "Botox Plant" due to its naturally gentle form of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and high antioxidant content. It has outstanding anti-aging properties as it combats the aging process by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme elastase, which is responsible for breaking down our skin's precious elastin. Moreover, the natural source of AHA helps speed up cell turnover, resulting in a more even-looking skin tone and firmer appearance.
Hibiscus has long been used by many cultures worldwide. Traditionally, the calyxes of the plant are dried and infused to make teas and cold beverages to treat various ailments such as loss of appetite, colds, upper respiratory tract pain and swelling, stomach irritation, as a laxative, and diuretic. Hibiscus tea is a popular tonic for the skin and liver, with purifying and rejuvenating effects. Several scientific studies have shown its potential to lower blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol due to its high antioxidant content similar to those found in bilberry, cranberry, and red wine. Additionally, Hibiscus is used to make jams, spices, soups, sauces, and the famous Jamaican drink, carcade (or sorrel).
With ingredients like Hibiscus that work wonders on our skin and body, regular use can provide exceptional and long-lasting results.