China Rose

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (China Rose) is distinct from Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle/hibiscus tea). Traditionally used in Ayurveda for hair growth, stomach ulcers, and as an emmenagogue. Animal studies suggest antifertility, hair growth, antiulcer, and antioxidant effects. The flower contains anthocyanins, flavonoids, and mucilage. However, NO human clinical trials exist for any therapeutic use. Limited research interest compared to Hibiscus sabdariffa.

Quick Answer

What it is

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (China Rose) is distinct from Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle/hibiscus tea). Traditionally used in Ayurveda for hair growth, stomach ulcers, and as an emmenagogue.

Key findings

Grade D: Hair Growth
Grade D: Gastric Ulcer Protection
Grade D: Antioxidant Activity

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: China Rose

Quick Facts: China Rose

Best Evidence:Grade D
Conditions Studied:1
Research Outcomes:4
Key Effect:Antioxidant Status

Outcomes by grade:

1 conditions · 4 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

Hair Growth

In rodent models, topical application of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis leaf and flower extracts increased hair follicle count, hair length, and follicular density in albino rats. Effects are attributed to nutritive and antioxidant properties of the plant, but no human trials have been conducted.

small↑Improves

Gastric Ulcer Protection

In animal studies, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extracts demonstrated gastroprotective effects against ethanol- and aspirin-induced gastric ulcers in rats. The mechanism may involve mucilage content and prostaglandin modulation, but no human data exist.

small↓Worsens

Antifertility Effects

In female rat models, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extracts showed antifertility effects, consistent with its traditional Ayurvedic use as an emmenagogue. The mechanism may involve anti-estrogenic properties, but no human trials have been conducted.

small↓Worsens

Antioxidant Activity

In vitro assays (DPPH, ABTS) demonstrate antioxidant activity from anthocyanins and flavonoids in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers. Activity is not exceptional compared to other anthocyanin-rich sources, and no human studies have confirmed in vivo relevance.

small↑Improves

Evidence by Condition

Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)

DAntioxidant Status

1 outcome · 2 studies

↑Antioxidant ActivityImproves

Research Citations (4)

Pharmacognostic and pharmacological aspects of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis - a review

J Pharm Sci (2009)

PMID: 21506934

Antifertility effect of flower extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

J Ethnopharmacol (2006)

PMID: 17114980

Effect of Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn. leaf extract on hair growth in albino mice

J Ethnopharmacol (2003)

PMID: 12880024

Antiulcer activity of Hibiscus rosa sinensis flower extract

Indian J Exp Biol (1989)

PMID: 15330742

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