Monday, October 20, 2008

Hibiscus

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Hibiscus, or rosemallow, is a large genus of about 200–220 species of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae (the mallow family, along with members like cocoacottonokrabaobab anddurian) native to warm, temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. The genus includes both annual and perennialherbaceous plants, and woody shrubs and small trees.
The Hibiscus is used as an offering to Goddess Kali and Lord Ganesha in Hindu worship. The Gumamela or Hibiscus rosa sinensis linn flower has antifungal, emmenagogue, emollient and refrigerant effect.[240]

Hibiscus, especially white hibiscus, is considered to have medicinal properties in the Indian traditional system of medicine, Ayurveda. Roots make various concoctions believed to cure various ailments.

The natives of southern India use the Red hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) for hair care purposes. The red flower and leaves, extracts of which can be applied on hair to tackle hair-fall and dandruff on the scalp. It is used to make hair-protective oils. A simple application involves soaking the leaves and flowers in water and using a wet grinder to make a thick paste, and used as a natural shampoo.

These Hibiscus are from my front yard.

1 comment:

Elizabeth said...

You have a beautiful site! Your photography is amazing! Thanks for sharing.

Elizabeth