HIBISCUS FLOWERS WHOLE - 4 oz.

Hibiscus sabdariffa PURE DRIED HERB (FLOWERS). 2oz, 16 oz , 1lb and in bulk. (stock) A variety of names-hibiscus, roselle, Sudanese tea, red tea, and Jamaica sorrel-designate the flowers (actually calyces and bracts) of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. This red-flowered annual herb of the family Malvaceae is widely cultivated throughout the tropics, reaching a height of 4 to 5 feet or more. Its flower heads are collected when immature and are highly prized for making jams, jellies, sauces, and acid beverages. The floral parts make a pleasant tea and are used by themselves or mixed with other herb teas.Hibiscus contains various anthocyanins and other pigments plus relatively large amounts of oxalic, malic, citric (12% to 17%), and tartaric acid, as well as up to 28% of hibiscic acid (the lactone of a hydroxycitric acid). These plant acids are responsible for the tart, refreshing taste of various hibiscus beverages and foods. They probably also account for the mild laxative and diuretic effects attributed to the plant. Appreciable quantities of water-soluble mucilaginous polysaccharides are also found in the herb. It is believed that they may be responsible for some of the numerous physiological effects postulated for hibiscus.