Hibiscus and its benefits for the skin

The hibiscus, a very beautiful plant with multiple colors. Hibiscus, a plant with multiple therapeutic properties. Yes, the hibiscus, since it is this plant that we are talking about here. A plant well known, or perhaps not enough, for its many therapeutic virtues. Find out there.

What is hibiscus?

A member of the malvaceae family, the hibiscus is a flowering plant that can reach up to 5 meters in height. Its name hibiscus comes from the Greek hibiskos, which is the old name for marshmallow. The hibiscus would have Chinese, African origins, or even come from Malaysia. But one thing that is certain is that it has many virtues, very useful in the African pharmacopoeia, or in maintaining natural health.

Existing for centuries, the hibiscus was cultivated since ancient times by the Egyptians and the Asians for its ornamental, culinary, and also medicinal properties. The hibiscus is even the emblem of a country. This is South Korea. It represents the perseverance of this people throughout its history.

Benefits of hibiscus for the skin

Like many plants used in the field of African pharmacopoeia, hibiscus can be used in various forms. As a result, its benefits on the skin depend on the different forms in which it is used. So we have:

The virtues of hibiscus oil on the skin

Hibiscus oil is produced from the seeds, contained in the flowers of the plant. It has a high content of vitamin E which is a powerful natural oxidant. It therefore helps to fight cell damage that is caused by free radicals.

Hibiscus oil is both regenerating and nourishing for the skin, playing a role in protecting cells throughout the body. Thanks to its richness in essential fatty acids, and in phytosterols (these are compounds often found in vegetable oils), hibiscus oil facilitates the restoration of a protective film, covering the entire skin. Thanks to these same fatty acids, hibiscus oil nourishes and repairs dry or damaged skin. It thus contributes to the protection of the skin against external aggressions.

In addition, hibiscus oil is very moisturizing. It limits the loss of water from the epidermis, and softens the skin by restoring elasticity and comfort. It is also a very good remedy against aging as it reduces the signs of aging. Thanks to its ceramide content, it allows the formation of a protective barrier on the skin.

The virtues of hibiscus flower on the skin

The hibiscus flower promotes deep hydration of the skin, which protects it against pollution and premature aging. The skin thus retains its smooth and plump appearance.

It is full of vitamin C which is very important in the production of collagens, which are essential for the healing process and the regeneration of tissues.

In addition, hibiscus flower regulates the activity of elastase, which is the enzyme responsible for skin aging.

To consume hibiscus flowers, they must be dried and then infused. This infusion, called bissap in West Africa, helps protect the body's cells from molecules that cause premature aging. It also prevents the development of certain age-related diseases such as cancer and cirrhosis.

The virtues of hibiscus powder for the skin

It is extracted from the dried petals of the hibiscus flower. By applying it to the face, you get rid of dead skin and impurities. It is a powder containing antioxidants. It is best suited for mature skin, dry, dull and sensitive skin.

Apart from its various virtues for the skin, hibiscus has properties beneficial to natural health in general. Yes, it is a very versatile plant, as are the vast majority of plants in the African pharmacopoeia. It is well known to fight against blood pressure, to reduce cholesterol, to prevent kidney stones. It is also a great source of antioxidants used in many recipes and beauty products.

Discover all hibiscus-based products right here