Growing and uses of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle): A literature survey

Abstract

Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (roselle) is an annual plant that has traditionally been used in human and animal diet as food, drinks, and medicine. As roselle can be grown in less than 6 months, it can be termed as an eco-friendly plant. In this chapter a review of the growing and use of roselle has been reported. Traditional claims about the diverse use of roselle, which have been verified in laboratory experiments, indicated that the plant can be used in several applications, including (1) human and animal diets, (2) medicinal and pharmacologic products, (3) food and industrial coloration, and (4) paper making and textile products. As the population increases, the use of eco-friendly natural products will increase. Therefore the use of roselle is likely to increase in several areas such as in its use as an antioxidant, as a nonanimal protein supplement, in paper making, and in textile fibers.