Indian-sorrel
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as roselle, is a plant traditionally used in various cultural practices for its culinary and medicinal properties. It is widely utilized in African, Caribbean, and Asian cuisines and traditional medicine, where it is often used to make teas, syrups, and jams due to its tart flavor. Scientific evidence suggests that the use of Hibiscus sabdariffa may have some beneficial effects; for instance, a 6% infusion consumed chronically by healthy rats over one month was found to reduce reactive oxygen species levels. Additionally, studies indicate that metabolites from the leaves exhibit antiproliferative and insulin resistance-improving activities. However, the evidence is limited and more research is needed to confirm these findings. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Hibiscus sabdariffa; however, further investigation is warranted given its potential health benefits.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that bioengineered Zinc orthotitanate (Zn2TiO4) using Hibiscus sabdariffa extract showed enhanced photocatalytic and electrochemical properties but limited antibacterial activity.
- Chronic consumption of 6% Hibiscus sabdariffa for one month in rats reduces reactive oxygen species.
- The smart hot air rotary drum dryer preserved more total anthocyanins than the hybrid smart solar dryer at 40°C.
- This study characterized the metabolite profiles of Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves and found they exhibited antiproliferative and insulin resistance-ameliorating activities.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian-sorrel?
Indian-sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Indian-sorrel?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Indian-sorrel; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that bioengineered Zinc orthotitanate (Zn2TiO4) using Hibiscus sabdariffa extract showed enhanced photocatalytic and electrochemical properties but limited antibacterial activity.
How strong is the evidence for Indian-sorrel?
The strongest finding for Indian-sorrel carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian-sorrel safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian-sorrel in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian-sorrel interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian-sorrel in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Indian-sorrel?
Indian-sorrel is also known as: Розелла, Groseille.
Is Indian-sorrel 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
- T2 Metabolomic Profiling of Taiwanese Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Leaves and Their Antiproliferative and Insulin Resistance-Ameliorating Potential. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Reply to Nguyen et al. Over-Intake of Plant-Derived Antioxidants, H2S Generation, and Reductive Stress. Comment on "Manzano-Pech et al. The Chronic Elevated Consumption of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus Results in Kidney Damage Associated wit literature abstract metadata
- T2 Bioengineered Zn2TiO4 nanomaterial and its effective electrochemical, antibacterial and photocatalytic responses. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Roselle Precision Drying: Comparative Performance of Smart Rotary Drum and Solar Dryers. literature abstract metadata