Ingredient Library

Hibiscus

Discover why hibiscus has been enjoyed for centuries and why its naturally occurring polyphenols have made it a popular ingredient in nutritional supplements.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), also known as roselle or sorrel, is a flowering plant traditionally enjoyed around the world as a herbal tea and food ingredient. The deep red calyces are naturally rich in colourful plant compounds, organic acids and polyphenols that contribute to hibiscus' distinctive flavour and nutritional profile.

Hibiscus supplements are commonly available as dried calyx powder and concentrated extracts, allowing these naturally occurring compounds to be conveniently incorporated into nutritional formulations.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a flowering plant best known for its vibrant red calyces, the fleshy structures that surround the flower after it blooms. These are the parts most commonly used in teas, foods and supplements.

Hibiscus Forms

Hibiscus supplements are commonly available as dried calyx powder or concentrated extracts. Whole powders retain the plant's natural nutritional profile, while extracts provide higher concentrations of selected naturally occurring plant compounds in smaller servings.

Naturally Rich in Polyphenols

Hibiscus naturally contains anthocyanins, flavonoids and other polyphenols responsible for its rich red colour. It also provides naturally occurring organic acids and antioxidant compounds that have made hibiscus one of the most widely researched botanical ingredients for cardiovascular health.

Heart Health

Supports normal cardiovascular health and circulation.

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

What is hibiscus?

Hibiscus is a flowering plant whose deep red calyces are widely used to make herbal teas, foods and nutritional supplements. It has been traditionally consumed for centuries in many cultures.

What is the difference between hibiscus powder and hibiscus extract?

Whole hibiscus powder is made by drying and grinding the calyces, preserving their natural nutritional profile. Hibiscus extracts are more concentrated and provide higher levels of selected naturally occurring plant compounds in a smaller serving.

What nutrients and plant compounds are naturally found in hibiscus?

Hibiscus naturally contains anthocyanins, flavonoids, polyphenols, organic acids and other antioxidant plant compounds that contribute to its vibrant colour and nutritional profile.

Why is hibiscus commonly used in heart health supplements?

Hibiscus has been widely studied for its naturally occurring polyphenols and has become one of the most popular botanical ingredients included in supplements designed to support cardiovascular health.

Is hibiscus the same as roselle or sorrel?

Yes. The species most commonly used in supplements is Hibiscus sabdariffa, which is also known as roselle in many countries and sorrel in parts of the Caribbean.