Hibiscus
A true majestic flower with its attractive colors and unique petal structure not only visually colorful but also holds a plethora of health benefits. It also holds significant symbolism in religious offerings.
Who doesn’t know the medicinal benefits of hibiscus for its hair care properties? It contributes to rich hair with its abundance in vitamin C, amino acids, and alpha hydroxy acids. Hibiscus can help strengthen hair, prevent premature graying, combat dandruff, and even stimulate hair growth.
Traditional hibiscus is dark red in color and is iconic and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its stunning flowers and lush foliage. With over 300 species of hibiscus plants, each with its unique characteristics
Phytochemical constituents of hibiscus
Hibiscus has many useful parts which contain various chemical constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins cardiac glycoside, carbohydrates reducing sugar, essential oils, steroids proteins, and free amino acid, which helps as anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antimicrobial, dermatological, anticonvulsant, antiparasitic, neuroprotective, antitussive, antioxidant. Anxiety. anti-depressant, and antidiabetic etc. Especially hibiscus flowers have properties like analgesic memory enhancement, diabetic anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, antitussive, Anti-tumor, anti-modulatory, hepatoprotective, dermatological, urinary, fibrinolytic and many other effects
Chemical Constituents
The edible portion of the flower was reported to have the following nutrients nitrogen, fats, crude fibers, calcium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine, ascorbic acid, and niacin.
Known by its botanical name as Hibiscus rosa sinensis it has various important uses for treating wounds, inflammation, fever, cough, diabetes, infections caused by bacteria, fungi, hair loss, and gastric ulcers in several tropical countries. Traditionally, Hibiscus flowers have been reported to possess antitumor properties, as well as have been used as analgesic, antipyretic, anti-asthmatic, and anti-inflammatory agents.
Dark flower’ extract is used to make eyeliners and in shoe-blacking.
Ayurvedic energetic of Japa Pushpa (Hibiscus)
Being madhura and kashaya in taste, and cold in potency it has properties to reduce kapha and pitta
Let's dwell into the medicinal properties of hibiscus
· Wound healing
· Hibiscus has indeed been studied for its potential wound-healing properties. Its known for its antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties which help in healing the wounds
Collagen is essential for wound healing as it provides structural support to tissues. Hibiscus extracts stimulate collagen production, aiding in the repair and regeneration of skin tissue.
· Alleviates anaemia
Drying and grinding hibiscus flower buds into a powder for consumption is a traditional remedy to potentially increase hemoglobin levels in the blood.
· Hair growth
Hibiscus flowers are rich in vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it a valuable ingredient in hair care.
· Refreshens the scalp
The cooling and soothing effects of Hibiscus juice, , can serve as an excellent tonic for refreshing the scalp. Additionally, massaging the scalp with hibiscus-infused hair oil can significantly enhance blood circulation and rejuvenate hair follicles.
Balances scalp oils
· The sebaceous glands under the scalp produce sebum, which is a natural oil essential for moisturizing the scalp and hair. Excess sebum production can lead to oily hair, which damages the hair texture Adding hibiscus into your hair care routine can help balance oil production and provide smoothness to hair strands.
Fortifies scalp from UV rays
Hibiscus plants are enriched with natural UV protection factors which play a vital role in hair care
· Natural conditioning effects
Renowned for its excellent conditioning properties, it can effectively prevent frizz and dryness while providing deep nourishment to the hair
· Controls dandruff
Hibiscus, with its antimicrobial properties, can help keep dandruff-causing fungi at bay and maintain scalp cleanliness. Aqueous extracts of hibiscus appear to exert a slight antibacterial effectRestores luster and pigments to hair
With its abundance of natural flavonoids, pigments, and antioxidants, hibiscus can help restore luster, pigment, and shine to hair
· Blood pressure
Hibiscus contains compounds like anthocyanins and flavonoids, which have been associated with cardiovascular benefits and help lower blood pressure
· Regulates cholesterol
Hibiscus helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
· Antioxidants
Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation.
· Heavy bleeding
Traditional uses of hibiscus in certain cultures include its use for managing hemorrhage, including menstrual bleeding. Hibiscus's cooling properties can help balance excess Pitta, which is associated with inflammatory conditions, including heavy menstrual bleeds
· Leukorrhea
Hibiscus's raksha stambaka property, which refers to its ability to arrest bleeding, may help in managing leukorrhea, a condition characterized by vaginal discharge.
· Scanty and Painful Menstruation
Hibiscus's anti-inflammatory and emmenagogue properties may help regulate menstrual flow and reduce pain associated with menstruation.
· Hemorrhoids
Hibiscus's anti-inflammatory and hemostatic properties may help reduce inflammation and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids.
Its diuretic properties may help promote urine flow and alleviate symptoms of urinary disorders.
· Insomnia
Hibiscus's calming properties may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
· Chemopreventive effects
Components of hibiscus have shown potential as a chemopreventative agent against tumor promotion in various studies . Hibiscus extract hindered the growth and proliferation of oral cancer cell
· Laxative effects
The fiber in hibiscus serves as a prebiotic, meaning it provides nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria.. By supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, hibiscus may help maintain gastrointestinal health and promote regularity.
· Renal stone
Hibiscus has diuretic effects, meaning it can increase urine production. Increased urine output may help to flush out substances that contribute to the formation of kidney stones, such as calcium and oxalate.
· Support Liver Health
Hibiscus helps to support liver function, protecting the liver from damage . Hibiscus contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which may protect the liver from oxidative stress and irritation.
· Support Healthy Weight Loss
Hibiscus extracts high polyphenol content, supports metabolism and promotes fat oxidation. Extract supplementation can significantly affect body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and waist-to-hip ratio in overweight and obese individuals.
· Manages fever
Consuming hibiscus tea or beverages made from hibiscus flowers can contribute to hydration. Proper hydration is essential for managing fever, as it helps regulate body temperature
· Manages conjunctivitis
Applying a cool compress soaked in hibiscus leaf juice may provide temporary relief from the discomfort and itching associated with conjunctivitis.
· Hibiscus edible seed oil is used as a substitute for castor oil and to produce scrubs and soaps.
· Hibiscus flowers are very popular and are used in making organic herbal tea.
· Natural aborting agent
The juice extracted from the Hibiscus flowers & stems is used in various traditional medicines as a natural abortion and contraceptive.
· Natural dye
The pigments found in hibiscus buds can be used as a natural dye to color fabrics, yarns, and other materials.
Can Hibiscus Have Side Effects?
Before using hibiscus, it is crucial to consult a doctor if you are currently taking any prescription medications, as it may interact with certain drugs such as those for high blood pressure and diabetes.
Q: What is Ayurveda Japa Pushpa Hair Oil?
A: Ayurveda Japa Pushpa Hair Oil is a hair treatment oil made with the essence of hibiscus flowers. It is often used to promote hair growth and nourish the scalp.
Q: What are the benefits of using Hibiscus in hair care?
A: Hibiscus is known to stimulate hair growth, prevent hair fall, and nourish hair strands. It also helps in maintaining a healthy scalp and combating greying of hair.
Q: How is Ayurveda related to hair care and Japa Pushpa?
A: Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that emphasizes natural healing and holistic well-being. Japa Pushpa, derived from hibiscus, is often used in Ayurvedic hair treatments to improve hair health.
Q: What are the key ingredients in Japa Pushpa Hair Oil?
A: The key ingredients in Japa Pushpa Hair Oil include hibiscus flower extracts, coconut milk, and other Ayurvedic herbs like bhringraj, brahmi, and amla.
Q: How does Japa Pushpa Hair Oil help in promoting hair growth?
A: Japa Pushpa Hair Oil helps promote hair growth by nourishing the scalp, strengthening hair strands, and reducing factors that lead to hair fall, thus stimulating new growth.
Q: Where can I purchase Ayurveda Japa Pushpa Hair Oil?
A: Ayurveda Japa Pushpa Hair Oil is available for purchase online on the Ohria Ayurveda LLP website and other selected retailers in India.
Q: Are there any side effects of using Japa Pushpa Hair Oil?
A: Japa Pushpa Hair Oil is made from natural ingredients and is generally considered safe for use. However, it is always recommended to do a patch test before applying it widely on the scalp to check for any allergic reactions.
What is the Best Hair Care Routine?
Oiling your hair and maintaining your hair from pollution and dust
What is your definition of healthy hair?
Hair with a shiny and smooth texture.