JAPA (HIBISCUS)

Scientific Name – Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

Family- Malvaceae

Description

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree growing 2.5–5 m (8–16 ft) tall2.5–5 m (8–16 ft) tall and 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) wide, with glossy leaves and solitary, brilliant red flowers in summer and autumn.The 5-petaled flowers are 10 cm (4 in) in diameter, with prominent orangetipped red anthers.

Chemical Constituents
The phytochemical analysis showed that Hibiscus rosa-sinensis contained tannins, anthraquinones, quinines, phenols, flavanoides, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, protein, free amino acids, carbohydrates, reducing sugars, mucilage, essential oils and steroids.

PROPERTIES
Rasa(Taste)- kashaya (Astringent), Tikta(Bitter)
Guna (QUALITIES)- Laghu (Light for digestion ), Rooksha ( Dry in nature )
Vipaka Katu- ( Undergoes punget taste after digestion )
Veerya(potency)- Sheeta (Cold)
Karma (Actions)- Kaphapitta shamaka ( Kapha and pitta dosha

Benifites
1-Hair Care: Japa is commonly used in hair care products and remedies. It may help promote hair growth, strengthen hair, and reduce hair fall. Japa oil or extracts are often used to nourish the scalp and hair.
2- Skin Health: Topical applications of Japa can be beneficial for the skin. It is used to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. Japa extracts are sometimes included in skincare products.
3-Cooling Properties: Japa has cooling properties, making it useful for alleviating heat-related issues. It can help reduce body heat, ease feelings of heat or inflammation, and provide relief in hot weather.

4-Anti-Inflammatory: Japa has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be useful for reducing inflammation in the body and soothing conditions like arthritis or skin rashes.
5-Digestive Health: Some traditional uses of Japa include its use as a mild laxative to support digestive health and relieve constipation.
6-Blood Pressure Regulation: Japa may have mild antihypertensive properties, potentially helping to regulate blood pressure when consumed or used in specific formulations.
7-Menstrual Health: In Ayurveda, Japa is used in some formulations to support women’s menstrual health, particularly for managing excessive menstrual bleeding.