Dried Hibiscus - Pomegranate Flower

What is Dried Hibiscus Pomegranate Flower?

Dried hibiscus is the dried form of the flower called pomegranate flower (nar çiçeği) in Turkey. It should not be confused with the blossom of the pomegranate tree itself, which is a different product.

Origin of the Name

1. Hibiscus:

   • The Latin word "Hibiscus" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "ἰβίσκος" (ibískos). In Ancient Greece, it was used to describe a group of plants mentioned among medicinal herbs.
   • The botanical name is based on the plant's scientific classification and is generally known as the "Hibiscus sabdariffa" species.

2. Pomegranate Flower:

   • This name was given because the reddish color of the plant's dried flowers resembles pomegranate seeds. The dried leaves and flowers used to make tea are commonly known as "pomegranate flower".
   • It is also called by this name because its sweet-sour taste resembles the juice of the pomegranate fruit.

Other Names

The hibiscus plant is known by various names in different geographies and cultures. Some of them:

1. Roselle: A commonly used name in English.
2. Karkadeh: Used in the Middle East and North Africa, especially in Egypt and Sudan.
3. Jamaica Flower: Common in Central America and the Caribbean; especially in Mexico, hibiscus tea is known as "Agua de Jamaica".
4. Gongura: In India, hibiscus leaves are widely consumed in the cuisine of Andhra Pradesh.
5. Chinese Rose: Some ornamental species of the hibiscus plant are known by this name.
6. Bissap: The popular name in West African countries.
7. Rosella: A common name in Australia and Southeast Asia.
8. Sour Tea Flower: Named after the taste of the beverage made from its leaves.
9. Guinea Sorrel: Known in West Africa and the Caribbean.

What Are the Hibiscus Product Varieties?

Hibiscus is generally added to tea blends or used as a standalone tea. Our product varieties are:

dried hibiscus whole

dried hibiscus powder

dried hibiscus broken coarse pieces

How to Store Dried Hibiscus?

Dried hibiscus has a minimum shelf life of 1 year when stored under proper conditions. There are 3 main factors that reduce this period:

• Humidity
• Sunlight
• High temperature

To prevent a shortened shelf life, it should be kept in its own packaging in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight.

What Is Dried Hibiscus Used For?

What Is Its Use in Industrial Production?

1. Where Can It Be Used in Food Production:

   • Herbal Tea Production: Hibiscus is one of the main ingredients in herbal teas. It stands out especially with its refreshing and slightly tart taste. Teas can be consumed hot or cold.
   • Sherbets and Fruit Juices: Hibiscus is preferred in beverages such as sherbets, fruit juices, and sodas as a natural color and aroma provider.
   • Desserts and Confectionery: It is used as a natural coloring and flavoring agent in ice creams, puddings, cakes, Turkish delights, and candies.
   • Marmalades and Jams: Hibiscus provides natural acidity and color in jams and marmalades.
   • Fermented Products: The use of hibiscus as a natural aroma and color provider is common in kombucha and other fermented beverages.

2. Functional and Dietary Supplement Products:

   • Antioxidant Supplements: Thanks to its high antioxidant content, hibiscus is found in immune-boosting food supplements.
   • Blood Pressure Regulating Products: Hibiscus is known for its blood pressure-lowering properties and is used in natural supplements for this feature.
   • Digestive Support Products: Hibiscus contains components that facilitate digestion, making it suitable for use in probiotic products.
   • Weight Control Supplements: With its metabolism-boosting effect, hibiscus can be used in diet products.

3. Cosmetics & Skincare:

   • Skincare Products: Due to its natural acidic structure, hibiscus is used in face masks and toners for its skin-brightening and tone-evening effects.
   • Shampoo & Hair Care: With its properties to strengthen hair roots and prevent dandruff, hibiscus is found in shampoos and hair care products.
   • Moisturizers: It can be used in moisturizing creams for its ability to increase skin elasticity.

4. Coloring Agent:

   • Natural Food Coloring: Hibiscus is preferred as a natural reddish-purple coloring agent in food and beverages.
   • Desserts & Drinks: Hibiscus powder or extract gives products an eye-catching color.

5. Home & Decor:

   • Natural Fragrance: Hibiscus leaves are used as a flavoring agent in scented candles, soaps, and potpourri.
   • Decorative Use: Hibiscus leaves can be used decoratively in packaging or special drinks to provide an aesthetic appearance.

Home Uses:

1. Homemade Drinks:

   • Hibiscus Tea: Hibiscus tea, which can be consumed hot or cold, offers a refreshing and beneficial beverage alternative.
   • Juices & Smoothies: Hibiscus can be added to juices or smoothies as a flavoring and coloring agent.
   • Homemade Sherbet: Hibiscus can be chosen as a key ingredient for natural sherbets made with traditional methods.

2. Food Prep:

   • Jams & Syrups: A natural flavor and color can be achieved by using hibiscus in homemade jams, syrups, or marmalades.
   • Desserts & Cakes: Hibiscus can be used in cakes, cookies, and desserts for both flavoring and decoration.

3. Skin and Hair Care:

   • Homemade Masks: Hibiscus can be used as a natural ingredient in skin masks. It may moisturize and revitalize the skin.
   • Hair Rinses: Hibiscus can be used as a rinse to support hair health.

Dried Hibiscus Nutrition Table (Per 100 Grams)