Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a flowering plant belonging to the Malvaceae family, scientifically known as Hibiscus sabdariffa. Characterized by its bright red color and beautiful flowers, hibiscus has numerous uses in various cultures around the world. It is commonly consumed as a hot or cold tea and has numerous health benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
Nutritional components of hibiscus
Hibiscus contains many beneficial nutrients, such as vitamins (especially vitamin C) and minerals like iron and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and help maintain overall health. Hibiscus is rich in organic acids such as malic and citric acid, making it ideal for improving digestion.
Benefits
Antioxidant
Improving Digestion
Beneficial for the skin
Balancing blood sugar levels
Uses
It is used in cold drinks in Mexico or hot tea in Germany and European countries. It is also used in the production of soft drinks and juices in Europe and the USA, as well as in traditional medicine and folk remedies in Nigeria.
How to prepare hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea is one of the most popular ways to consume this plant. To prepare hibiscus tea:
Put about 2-3 teaspoons of dried hibiscus flowers in a cup of boiling water.
Let it boil for 5-10 minutes.
Afterward, strain the tea and add honey or sugar to taste. It can be consumed cold or warm.
Medicinally Used Part
The calyces (flower sepals) are the primary part used from the hibiscus plant. They are harvested after the petals fall off, then dried for use in beverages and traditional remedies. These calyces are commonly used in folk medicine to lower blood pressure and treat certain inflammations.
Cultivation Methods
Hibiscus is propagated by seeds, and its cultivation follows these steps:
Soil Preparation
Hibiscus grows best in well-drained clay soil or sandy loam soil. It can also be cultivated in newly reclaimed sandy lands.
The land should be plowed, and organic fertilizers should be added at a rate of 20 cubic meters per feddan, along with 200 kg of superphosphate.
Land Planning
The land is prepared with 8 rows per 7 meters.
Seed Planting
Seeds are sown along the rows on the eastern or northern side of the ridge.
Each hole (goura) contains 4-5 seeds, with a spacing of 50-75 cm between them.
Planting Season
Hibiscus is planted from mid-March to April, which is the same planting season as cotton.
It is preferable to plant during this period to ensure good vegetative growth and high-quality yield.
Export details worldwide
Types: Leaves, slices, and TBC.
Packaging: Sacks or carton
Package weight: 10 or 20 kg.
Sorting: Handpicked.
Packaging: Automated.
Origin: Egypt.
TBC
