A plant record

Hibiscus (choublak)

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

EnglishHibiscus

Kreyòlchoublak

FrançaisRose de Chine

BotanicalHibiscus rosa-sinensis

Hibiscus (choublak) — Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Hair care, menstrual disorders, fever, hypertension, wound healing, digestive issues

Prepared as

The leaves and flowers are typically prepared as a hot water infusion by steeping 2-3 fresh leaves or 1-2 flowers in 1 cup of boiling water (100°C) for 10-15 minutes, then strained. For external use as a hair treatment, the leaves are crushed and mixed with warm water to form a paste, or the flowers are boiled in water for 20 minutes to create a concentrated rinse. The tea is consumed 2-3 times daily for menstrual regulation and blood pressure support, while the external preparations are applied weekly to strengthen and darken hair.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Swen cheve yo, pwoblèm règ fanm yo, lafyèv, tansyon wo, geri blesi yo, pwoblèm vant

Français — Soins capillaires, troubles menstruels, fièvre, hypertension, cicatrisation des plaies, troubles digestifs

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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