Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Phytochemical composition and nutraceutical properties

Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) is a plant cultivated around the world for food uses, its medicinal properties and health benefits. Infusions of the calices of this plant are consumed for their unique taste and pleasant color either hot as tea or cold as a refreshing beverage. There are reports in the scientific literature about the effects of H. sabdariffa on decreasing the risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, inflammation, cancer and obesity, among other health conditions, due to the presence of biologically active compounds. The purpose of this chapter is to review the scientific evidence in support of the potential health effects of HS, using studies performed in vitro, and in preclinical and clinical models. The results suggest that biologically active compounds in HS extracts are responsible for the potential prevention of the various disease conditions associated with the consumption of HS extracts.