Changeable Rose-mallow

Hibiscus mutabilis

Hibiscus mutabilis is a woody plant species utilized within various traditional medicine systems. It has been historically applied as an anodyne, demulcent, emollient, and expectorant, with uses targeting fever, inflammation, cough, swelling, and abscesses. Current scientific evidence regarding its medicinal properties is limited, as existing studies focus primarily on its color-changing regulatory networks, its survival in constructed wetlands, and its ecological interactions with insects. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions have been recorded in the available data. This information is for educational purposes only.

At a glance
Traditionally for
burns · anodyne
Traditions
TCM · traditional
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • Seven woody plant species, including Hibiscus mutabilis, could survive in simulated vertical-flow constructed wetlands. D PMID
  • This study presents upcycled TPEE films integrated with spiropyran derivatives that exhibit dynamic anticounterfeiting and photoswitchable conductivity properties. D PMID
  • This study reveals that metabolomics, transcriptomics, and microbial community analysis together show a multidimensional regulatory network influencing the dynamic color change in Hibiscus mutabilis. D PMID
  • Hibiscus mutabilis flowers with added linalool or β-ionone deterred honeybee visits while attracting thrips, illustrating a push-pull strategy. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Changeable Rose-mallow?

Changeable Rose-mallow (Hibiscus mutabilis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Changeable Rose-mallow traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Changeable Rose-mallow for: burns, anodyne, antidote, cough, dysuria, expectorant. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Changeable Rose-mallow?

Changeable Rose-mallow appears in these traditions in our sources: TCM, traditional.

What does the scientific evidence say about Changeable Rose-mallow?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Seven woody plant species, including Hibiscus mutabilis, could survive in simulated vertical-flow constructed wetlands.

How strong is the evidence for Changeable Rose-mallow?

The strongest finding for Changeable Rose-mallow carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Changeable Rose-mallow safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Changeable Rose-mallow interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Changeable Rose-mallow?

Changeable Rose-mallow is also known as: Гибискус изменчивый, Caractère des dames.

Is Changeable Rose-mallow a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
  2. T2 Hibiscus Mutabilis-Inspired Upcycled TPEE Films with Orthogonal Wavelength-Controlled Spiropyrans for Dynamic Anticounterfeiting and Photoswitchable Conductivity. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Applicability of different woody plant species to vertical flow constructed wetland. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Floral fragrance in sweet osmanthus majorly repels pollen feeders. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Integrating multi-omics and epiphytic microbial communities to decipher the spatiotemporal dynamics of flower color dynamic regulation in Hibiscus mutabilis. literature abstract metadata