Bennd knows the power of Ayurvedic herbs and their many uses. That's why all of our mats and props are infused with an exclusive blend of 22 Ayurvedic herbs. Each month, we highlight one of these healing powerhouses and how you can use it outside of your practice. This month, the beautiful summer flower Hibiscus takes center stage. This gorgeous tropical bloom does more than just enhance your garden; it has a slew of amazing health benefits and is the perfect herb for this time of year. 

Hibiscus Background

The hibiscus plant is a part of the Malvaceae family. It blooms annually and thrives in warm, tropical, or subtropical climates, with plenty of sunlight, heat, and humidity. While there are over 300 species of Hibiscus, Hibiscus sabdariffa is a powerful Ayurvedic ally. This branching shrub can grow up to an impressive nine feet and produces striking red flowers harvested for their potent healing properties.

Qualities

Different herbs have different qualities that impact how it affects our body and constitution. Hibiscus has a sweet and astringent rasa, or taste, and a cooling virya, or energetic effect on the body. These qualities make it ideal for pitta and kapha dosha but aggravate for vata if used excessively.

Uses and Benefits

Pitta is a powerful herb with many healing benefits. It has historically been used for beauty and skincare purposes and sacred ceremonies. In addition, it is a highly cleansing herb. It supports the healthy function of the liver and kidneys as well as circulation. Our Madder Root and Sappan Wood Ayurvedic yoga mat also has powerful detoxifying properties. The center and hand-grip lines are dyed with madder root, supporting blood purification and the lymphatic system.  

Some additional benefits of Hibiscus include:

• Healthy hair and skin
• Balances Pitta and clears excess heat from the body
• It supports proper function of the kidneys and liver
• It helps to maintain a healthy weight
• Improves heart health, circulation, and blood pressure

How to Take Hibiscus

Hibiscus can be used both internally and externally. For internal use, you can take 1/4-1/2 a tsp of hibiscus powder a day. Mix with warm water, honey, or ghee. You can also use dried hibiscus leaves to create a delicious tea. Steep a tsp of Hibiscus leaves in warm water for five minutes before straining and serving. 

Pitta Balancing Hibiscus Cooler

Try this cooling hibiscus drink to calm pitta and stay balanced all summer long.

Ingredients:

1. 1 tsp hibiscus leaves 
2. 8 oz hot water
3. 8 oz coconut water
4. half of a lime
5. fresh mint 

Directions:

1. Steep Hibiscus in hot water for five to ten minutes. Strain and set to the side to cool. 
2. Chop a handful of fresh mint leaves and muddle them in a mortar and pestle. Place in a 16 oz glass.
3. Pour the cooled hibiscus tea and coconut water over the mint. Squeeze the lime into the mixture and stir to combine. 
4. Serve fresh and cool.