Hibiscus Tree And Flower

The Hibiscus is one of the most common flowering trees of Asia . The leaves and flowers of the tree were used in cosmetic treatments during the ancient days and have become very much a part of Ayurveda.

The Hibiscus, or Javakusuma, belongs to the Malvacae family is also commonly known as Shoe Flower. The red flowers are used in treatments.Like the Tulsi, the Hibiscus has become a part of Hindu religious rites and is a must in certain pujas. It was not only popularised by Ayurvedic practice in Asia , but is an important ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine.
The ancient woman of Asia not only used the exotic Hibiscus flower to adorn her hair, but also applied its extracts as a treatment for hair. The flowers and leaves contain many properties that benefit hair and scalp and help in the treatment of dandruff and hair loss.

Both in Asia and China, infusions of Hibiscus leaves and flowers were mixed with herbal oils and applied on the scalp as a part of regular hair care. The juice of the flower was added to vegetable hair dyes like henna and indigo. The reason for the widespread use of the Hibiscus was its ability to prevent and control common hair problems.

Hibiscus has a soothing and cooling action on the scalp. During the ancient days, it was used to reduce heat and bring down fevers. This soothing action is of great benefit in treating rashy conditions and in cases of dandruff. It is of particular benefit in seborrhoeic conditions of the scalp, due to its astringent action, helping to reduce oil-gland secretions and excessive oiliness of hair and scalp. Hibiscus helps to remove and reduce pore clogging, thus improving the general look and condition of hair. It also reduces excessive scaling, itching and redness of the scalp.
Hibiscus has many other benefits. Not only does it restore the normal acid-alkaline balance, but helps in the elimination of toxins. It also stimulates blood circulation to the scalp and thus helps the supply of the essential nutrients to the follicles. It has excellent tonic properties. Ingredients like Hibiscus are ideal for counteracting the effects of air pollutants. The chemical pollutants in the air are potent irritants. They not only upset the normal balances, but cause many eruptive conditions and irritative reactions. We are constantly exposed to these harmful chemicals. Hibiscus, like many other plant ingredients, offers ideal protection.

Both hot and cold infusions can be made from hibiscus flowers and leaves, though cold infusions are more common. For hot infusions, the flowers and leaves are added to boiling water and allowed to stand in it for 10 to 12 hours. The infusion is strained and used on the scalp. It can be used as a last rinse after washing the hair. For cold infusions, the flowers and leaves are allowed to stand overnight in cold water, in a ratio of one to six. The flowers are squeezed and the water is strained before use.

Such infusions can be used to wash the hair and scalp, or may be applied on the scalp with cotton wool. Infusions, or the juice of the flowers, may be added to henna paste and applied on the scalp. This a total hair-food and conditioning treatment. Today, Hibiscus is added to brahmi, bhringaraj, amla, henna and other such extracts, to formulate products for hair care, like cleansers, hair tonics, anti-dandruff preparations, hair conditioners and rinses.