Hibiscus Buds
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The Hibiscus is a Sun plant, but the large funnel-shaped flower also means it is sometimes associated with Venus. It is used for divination, clairvoyance, or reaching higher planes and is an ingredient in Alder Moon Tea.
The whole buds have also been used as an aphrodisiac, stimulant and powerful sex tonic or coffee substitute, when taken with a pinch of lemongrass. To make a tea, pour boiling water over 1-2 tablespoons of the flowers and strain after 5-10 minutes. Medicinally, leaves are emollient, and are much used in Guinea as a diuretic, refrigerant, and sedative; Hibsicus products are traditionally used to treat nervous disorders such as heart palpitations, anxiety, convulsions and sometimes high blood pressure. The flowers contain gossypetin, anthocyanin, and glucoside hibiscin, which may have deeply serve to relax and nourish the nervous system, help to relieve pain, reduce tension and anxiety, and promote restful sleep without interfering with the natural sleep cycles. Hibiscus not only makes a delicious beverage with relaxing effects, but it has a concentration of flavonoids, which play a large role in preventing the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (the "bad cholesterol"). This beautiful plant was first used in Upper Egypt, and has only grown in popularity for its color and flavor that it adds to a variety of drinks and teas. |
