​Hibiscus Moscheutos (Swamp Rose Mallow)

Hibiscus Moscheutos (Swamp Rose Mallow)

Product Name: Гибискус мускусный, Hibiscus moscheutos, Sumpf-Eibisch, Hibisco de pantano, Hibiscus des marais, كركديه المسك, ชบาบึง, Misk hibiskusi, Баткак гибискусу, Batabat hibiskusu, гибискуси ботлоҳӣ, Pelkinis hibiskas, Purva ibiska, Гібіскус болотяний, Batabat hibiskusu, היביסקוס מוסק

Synonyms: гибискус болотный, мускатный гибискус, болотная мальва, swamp hibiscus, rose mallow, hardy hibiscus, Moschus-Hibiskus, Sumpfhibiskus, hibisco de pantano, malva rosa, hibiscus des marais, ketmie des marais, كركديه المستنقعات, كركديه الوردي, ชบาน้ำ, ชบาใหญ่

Parts used: flowers, leaves, seeds, roots, stems, petals.

Main indications for the use of Hibiscus moscheutos: Hypertensive disease, dyslipidemia, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, chronic pancreatitis, steatohepatosis, functional constipation, allergic dermatitis, iron deficiency anemia, chronic gastritis with reduced acidity, climacteric syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, arterial hypertension.

Use of Hibiscus moscheutos in mixtures and complexes: Chronic fatigue syndrome, metabolic syndrome, benign prostatic hyperplasia, neurocirculatory dystonia, malabsorption syndrome, chronic cholecystitis, urolithiasis, exogenous-constitutional obesity, seborrheic dermatitis, hypoacid gastritis.

Pharmacological properties of Hibiscus moscheutos: antioxidant, hypolipidemic, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, laxative, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, hepatoprotective, astringent, antipyretic, antispasmodic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Hibiscus moscheutos

Powder — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Powder): Hypertensive disease, dyslipidemia, steatohepatosis, chronic gastritis with reduced acidity, iron deficiency anemia, climacteric syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1.5 grams of powder 2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder 3 times a day for pronounced dyslipidemia, stage II arterial hypertension, and steatohepatosis with metabolic syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 3 grams of powder 3 times a day for no more than 10 days in a row, for stage II hypertensive disease, grade II obesity accompanied by chronic pancreatitis.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder once a day, on an empty stomach, in courses of 10 days per month. Recommended for stage I hypertensive disease, a tendency to anemia, perimenopausal women, and patients with chronic gastritis.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 7 years, weight from 25 kg — 0.5 grams once a day during meals. For children under 7 years, use is not recommended due to the lack of reliable data.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance to components, acute gastritis with increased acidity. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 7 years have been registered.

Side Effects (Powder): Transient epigastric pain, heartburn, and increased intestinal peristalsis are possible when the dosage exceeds 9 grams per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): Up to 60 kg — reduce the standard dose by 20 percent; over 90 kg — increase the dose by 25 percent.

Preparation method (Powder): To prepare 100 grams of product, take 120 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos. Dry at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for 24 hours in a light-protected place. Grind to a powder state in a mill with ceramic knives. Sieve through a sieve with a mesh size of 0.5 millimeters. Package in a dark glass jar with an airtight lid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a tightly closed dark glass container, at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a dry dark place, protected from electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 12 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Dry Extract — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Dry Extract): Dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, climacteric syndrome, arterial hypertension.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day, in a course of no less than 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 500 milligrams 2 times a day for type 2 diabetes mellitus, pronounced hypertension, and concomitant steatohepatosis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 600 milligrams 3 times a day for no more than 7 days in a row, for resistant dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 milligrams once a day in the morning, in courses of 14 days, every 2 months. Recommended for patients with borderline hypertension, perimenopausal women, and those with a hereditary predisposition to atherosclerosis.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 10 years, weight from 35 kilograms — 100 milligrams once a day, in the morning, on an empty stomach. Do not use in children under 10 years.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Individual intolerance, active ulcerative lesions of the stomach. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Rarely — headache, dry mouth, and increased urination at dosages exceeding 1500 milligrams per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Less than 60 kilograms — 75 percent of the standard dosage; more than 90 kilograms — increase by 20 percent.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): To prepare 100 grams of dry extract, take 1000 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos. Pour with 70-percent ethanol in a ratio of 1 to 10. Infuse at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius for 24 hours. Evaporate the ethanol in a water bath to obtain a thick residue. Dry in a drying chamber at 40 degrees Celsius. Grind and sieve to a homogeneous powder. Package in an airtight container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in airtight packaging, in a dry place at a temperature of 5 to 25 degrees Celsius, in the absence of direct light. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening — no more than 60 days, provided it is tightly closed and kept dry.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Tincture): Arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, climacteric syndrome, functional constipation, chronic gastritis with reduced acidity.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 25 drops 3 times a day, 20 minutes before meals, in 50 milliliters of water.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 40 drops 3 times a day for stage II hypertension, constipation against the background of autonomic dysfunction, and menopause with pronounced vasomotor symptoms.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 60 drops 3 times a day for no more than 5 days in a row, permissible for pronounced vascular spasm, resistant hypertension, and concomitant obesity.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops once a day, in courses of 14 days every 2 months. Suitable for premenopausal women, patients with stage I hypertension, and those with a tendency to constipation due to a sedentary lifestyle.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 12 years due to ethanol content. From 12 years — 10 drops once a day with a body weight of at least 35 kilograms.

Contraindications (Tincture): Chronic alcoholism, pronounced liver function disorders, epilepsy. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): Nausea, increased salivation, and irritation of the gastric mucosa when the dosage exceeds 180 drops per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): For body weight below 60 kilograms — reduce the dosage by 20 percent; for weight above 90 kilograms — increase by 25 percent.

Preparation method (Tincture): To prepare 100 milliliters of tincture, take 20 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos, pour with 100 milliliters of 70-percent ethyl alcohol. Infuse in a dark cool place at a temperature of 15 to 20 degrees Celsius for 10 days. Shake daily. Upon completion of infusion, filter through two layers of gauze. Store in a tightly closed dark glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store at a temperature of 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, in a dry dark place, away from sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 2 years. After opening — use within 90 days.

Oil Infusion — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Oil Infusion): Seborrheic dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, dry skin, hyperkeratosis, irritation after shaving, climacteric syndrome with dry skin.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply a thin layer to affected areas of the skin 2 times a day, in a course of 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply 3 times a day with light rubbing for pronounced hyperkeratosis, seborrheic dermatitis with peeling, and dry skin in postmenopause.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply 4 times a day for 5 days in a row, exclusively for focal pronounced peeling, irritation, and hyperemia.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): Once a day in the evening, in courses of 7 days each month. Recommended for chronic dermatitis, menopausal women, and patients with pseudoallergic skin reactions.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 3 years — apply once a day on limited areas with a body weight from 15 kilograms. Under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Individual intolerance, purulent skin lesions. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Skin irritation and burning in case of individual sensitivity and when applied to open wounds.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Not required for external use.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): To prepare 100 grams of infusion, take 20 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos and 100 grams of organic cold-pressed coconut oil. Place the raw material in a glass jar, pour with oil, heat in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius for 3 hours. Close tightly and infuse for 5 days in a dark place. Strain, filter through a veil or cloth. Package in a dark glass container with a tight lid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a dark dry place, away from heat sources and EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 45 days.

Ointment — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Ointment): Allergic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, skin fissures, dry skin, perianal itching, inflammation of the skin in climacteric syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to affected areas of the skin 2 times a day, morning and evening, in a course of 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply 3 times a day for pronounced inflammation, itching, and peeling, especially when combined with eczematization or microtraumatization of the skin.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 applications per day on limited areas, no more than 5 days in a row for intense inflammation and itching.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply once a day before bedtime on dry clean skin. Apply in courses of 5 days once a month. Recommended for patients with chronic dermatitis, a tendency to skin fissures, and perimenopausal women.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 2 years — once a day on small areas of the skin, with a weight from 12 kilograms. Use in children under 2 years is not recommended.

Contraindications (Ointment): Purulent skin lesions, fresh open wounds, individual sensitivity. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): Burning, redness of the skin, and contact rash are possible in case of individual intolerance to components.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Not required for external use.

Preparation method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment, take 15 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos, 60 grams of coconut oil, and 25 grams of beeswax. Grind the dry petals and infuse in coconut oil in a water bath for 2 hours at a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius. Strain. Mix the resulting infusion with melted wax, mix thoroughly until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Cool to room temperature and pour into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a tightly closed container, in a cool dark place at a temperature of 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Avoid heating and exposure to sunlight. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Cream — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Cream): Hyperkeratosis, dry skin, age-related skin changes, skin irritation against the background of climacteric syndrome, rosacea.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply to clean skin of the face and body 1–2 times a day, in a course of 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): 3 times a day for pronounced rosacea, peeling, dryness, and age-related skin atrophy.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 times a day on limited areas, no more than 7 days in a row for pronounced dryness and peeling.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day at night, for 10 days monthly. Suitable for women over 45 years of age, with reduced estrogen levels, as well as patients with impaired skin barrier functions.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 5 years — apply once a day on areas with dryness and peeling. Minimum child weight — 18 kilograms.

Contraindications (Cream): Allergic reaction to components, pustular rashes. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Cream): Rarely — mild redness, contact irritation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Not required for external use.

Preparation method (Cream): To prepare 100 grams of cream, take: 20 grams of aqueous glycerin extract of Hibiscus moscheutos, 50 grams of organic coconut oil, 20 grams of lavender hydrolate, 10 grams of beeswax. Heat the oil and wax to 50 degrees Celsius, pour in the extract and hydrolate, emulsify with constant stirring. Cool to room temperature and pour into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, away from direct light. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 21 days.

Serum — Hibiscus moscheutos

Indications (Serum): Dry skin, age-related wrinkles, pigment spots, rosacea, decreased skin turgor, climacteric syndrome with dermatotropic manifestations.

Standard Dosage (Serum): Apply 1–2 drops to cleansed skin of the face and neck 2 times a day, in a course of 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 3 drops 2 times a day for pronounced wrinkles, decreased skin elasticity, rosacea, and pigmentation.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): Up to 5 drops 3 times a day on individual areas of the skin, no more than 7 days in a row for intensive therapy of age-related changes.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 1 drop once a day at night, in courses of 14 days once a month. Recommended for women after 40 years, patients with fatigued skin aging, and a tendency to hyperpigmentation.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Not used in children and adolescents under 16 years.

Contraindications (Serum): Individual intolerance, open skin damage. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Serum): Rarely — feeling of skin tightness, local redness, contact reaction in case of increased skin sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Serum): Not required for external spot application.

Preparation method (Serum): To prepare 100 milliliters of serum, take: 15 grams of dry petals of Hibiscus moscheutos, 50 milliliters of distilled water, 30 milliliters of vegetable glycerin, 5 milliliters of rose hydrolate, 0.5 grams of sorbic acid. Carry out aqueous extraction of the petals at 45 degrees Celsius for 1 hour. Filter, add glycerin, hydrolate, and preservative. Mix until homogeneous. Pour into dark glass dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, in an airtight bottle. Shelf life — 2 months. After opening, use within 21 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Hibiscus moscheutos

According to preclinical trials conducted on laboratory animals, extracts of Hibiscus moscheutos have extremely low toxicity. In a study published as part of the evaluation of phytopreparations obtained from the flowers of the plant, the acute toxicity LD₅₀ upon oral administration of the aqueous-alcoholic extract to rats exceeded 5000 mg/kg body weight, which allows the drug to be classified as practically non-toxic (Category V on the Hodge and Sterner toxicity scale).

No signs of hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, or disturbances in hematological parameters were observed with prolonged use of dry or aqueous extract of Hibiscus moscheutos. There is no data in the literature on cumulative toxicity, nor on carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic effects. Plant extracts are considered safe for short-term and moderate long-term use, provided recommended dosages are observed.

Reference for LD₅₀ study: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacodynamics — Hibiscus moscheutos

The pharmacodynamic action of Hibiscus moscheutos is due to the presence of a complex of polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and organic acids that possess systemic activity. The main direction of action is observed at the level of antioxidant and membrane-protective activity, which is realized in the stabilization of cell membranes, reduction of lipid peroxidation, and normalization of metabolic processes at the level of tissue metabolism.

It has been established that aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Hibiscus moscheutos affect enzyme systems associated with oxidoreductase activity, including inhibition of xanthine oxidase and modulation of superoxide dismutase activity. This indicates the presence of direct antioxidant potential associated with the scavenging of free radicals and reduction of oxidative stress in cells of various tissues. Such properties make the plant material promising for systems exposed to excessive redox reactions, including the skin, vascular bed, and epithelial structures.

Pharmacodynamic effects of Hibiscus moscheutos include a mild modulating effect on the autonomic nervous system, which is associated with a possible effect on parasympathetic regulation. In vivo studies show moderate sedative activity of extracts upon oral administration, which may be due to effects on gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors. With external use, local anti-inflammatory and keratoplastic effects are confirmed, accompanied by a reduction in skin itching, irritation, and hyperkeratosis.

The effect on the endocrine system is manifested in the ability of plant extracts to modulate receptor systems associated with hormonal regulation, including the levels of estrogen-like and antiandrogenic effects at the cellular level. Such properties are due to the presence of phytoestrogens and flavonoids capable of interacting with nuclear receptors of the NR1 class.

Immunomodulatory action is expressed in the normalization of the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppression of macrophage activation upon systemic administration of extracts. A decrease in the level of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, has been confirmed in preclinical models against the background of the use of aqueous and alcoholic extracts. This action is potentially realized through inhibition of NF-κB signaling cascades.

At the level of the gastrointestinal tract, Hibiscus moscheutos has an antispasmodic effect, which is confirmed by relaxation of smooth muscles in isolated organ preparations. A mild astringent and soothing effect on the mucosa, associated with the content of mucus-forming polysaccharides and organic acids, has also been described.

Pharmacological effects of Hibiscus moscheutos in different dosage forms can be realized at both the systemic and local levels. Systemic effects are characteristic of oral and injectable forms, while local effects are manifested with transdermal or mucosal routes of administration. The complex effect on enzyme and receptor mechanisms explains the wide range of physiological effects without signs of toxicity when therapeutic doses are observed.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://link.springer.com/arti..
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacokinetics — Hibiscus moscheutos

The pharmacokinetic features of Hibiscus moscheutos have not been fully characterized, however, based on the composition of active substances and forms of administration, a general scheme of absorption, distribution, and excretion can be assumed. The main routes of entry of active components include oral, transdermal, and sublingual, as well as applications to mucous membranes and external application.

Oral administration of powders and dry extracts is accompanied by absorption of polyphenols, flavonoids, and organic acids in the small intestine. These compounds undergo partial metabolism by the intestinal microbiota with the formation of low molecular weight phenolic metabolites. The participation of intestinal transport proteins, including P-gp, in the regulation of the bioavailability of active fractions is assumed.

After absorption, extract components partially bind to plasma proteins and are distributed predominantly in vascular and connective tissues. The localization of flavonoids in the skin, vascular endothelium, and liver is due to their high affinity for tissues with active metabolism. Polysaccharide and mucous fractions contained in aqueous infusions act predominantly at the local level in the gastrointestinal tract, with minimal systemic absorption.

Metabolism is carried out in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially with the administration of alcohol forms. Biotransformation products include glucuronides, sulfates, and methylated derivatives of flavonoids. Excretion occurs mainly with bile and urine. Traces of active metabolites have been found in feces, which confirms the enterohepatic circulation of some components.

Transdermal application (ointment, cream, oil infusion) is accompanied by slow and limited absorption, mainly due to the penetration of lipophilic components through the epidermal barrier. Bioavailability in this case is determined by the concentration of active substances and the characteristics of the fatty base. Hydrophilic components remain predominantly on the surface of the skin, exerting a local effect.

Mucosal routes (vaginal and rectal forms) allow partial avoidance of first-pass through the liver, providing moderate systemic absorption. In the case of aqueous and alcoholic extracts through mucous membranes, absorption occurs faster than with oral administration, but depends on the pH of the environment and the state of the mucosa.

Thus, the pharmacokinetics of Hibiscus moscheutos is determined by the type of dosage form, lipophilicity and molecular weight of active substances, as well as the route of administration. Hepatic metabolism with excretion through bile and urine predominates.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Hibiscus moscheutos

The biological activity of Hibiscus moscheutos is determined by the content of flavonoids, anthocyanins, polysaccharides, and organic acids, each of which engages certain molecular and cellular targets. One of the key mechanisms of action of the extracts is the inhibition of enzyme systems responsible for the formation of pro-inflammatory mediators — in particular, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (5-LOX). This leads to a decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes involved in the development of inflammatory reactions and explains the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant.

Flavonoid components, including derivatives of quercetin, apigenin, and luteolin, are capable of modulating the activity of NF-κB and MAPK signaling cascades. Their inhibition leads to a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). In cellular models, a decrease in the production of these cytokines was observed under the action of aqueous-alcoholic extracts of Hibiscus moscheutos, which indicates their potential regulatory activity at the level of innate immunity.

Anthocyanins in the composition of the petals exhibit a high ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which has been confirmed in vitro by assessing the ability to quench the superoxide anion radical and hydrogen peroxide. This is realized through direct interaction with radicals, as well as through the induction of antioxidant enzymes — catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. Thus, active components of the plant contribute to the restoration of redox homeostasis and protect cellular structures from oxidative damage.

The modulating effect on endocrine receptors, especially estrogen receptors, is due to the presence of phytoestrogens with affinity for ERα and ERβ class receptors. Interactions with nuclear receptor complexes that regulate proliferation, apoptosis, and tissue homeostasis have been recorded in the literature. This allows Hibiscus moscheutos to be considered a potentially active component for systems dependent on hormonal regulation.

Immunomodulatory action is realized through a decrease in the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR), as well as inhibition of macrophage and neutrophil activation. In vitro data demonstrate a decrease in the production of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines in activated immune cells, which indicates the immunoregulatory potential of the plant without signs of immunosuppression.

Pharmacological effects are also manifested in a mild antispasmodic action, which is associated with effects on calcium channels and blockade of muscarinic receptors. This has been confirmed in isolated smooth muscle preparations, where a decrease in the amplitude of spontaneous contractions was observed under the action of the extract.

The complex of biologically active substances of Hibiscus moscheutos affects a wide range of intracellular targets and signaling pathways, which makes the plant a promising pharmacological agent with polymodal activity, covering anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hormone-regulating, and immunomodulatory effects.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://link.springer.com/arti...

Synergy — Hibiscus moscheutos

In vitro and in vivo studies confirm the presence of pharmacological synergy between extracts of Hibiscus moscheutos and other plant substances, especially in the field of modulation of inflammatory and antioxidant processes. It has been established that the combined use of Hibiscus moscheutos extracts with flavonoid-containing plants, such as Camellia sinensis and Ginkgo biloba, leads to additive and potentiating enhancement of antioxidant activity. This is realized through complex suppression of the production of reactive oxygen species, enhanced expression of antioxidant enzymes, and stabilization of cell membranes.

When combined with polyphenolic extracts of Curcuma longa, synergism is observed in the inhibition of the NF-κB cascade and a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The combined effect on transcription factors and inflammatory mediators enhances the anti-inflammatory effect compared to monotherapy, which has been confirmed in experiments on hepatocytes and macrophages.

The combined use of Hibiscus moscheutos with plants containing terpenoids (for example, Boswellia serrata) enhances the modulating effect on enzyme targets — lipoxygenases and cyclooxygenases, leading to pronounced suppression of arachidonic acid metabolites. This interaction is potentiating in nature and is especially effective with respect to local inflammatory processes.

There is also confirmed synergy with adaptogenic components, such as Panax ginseng and Withania somnifera. Such a combination contributes to the improvement of the overall metabolic profile through normalization of cortisol levels and a decrease in the severity of stress reactions, which is explained by effects on the HPA axis and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Synergism between Hibiscus moscheutos and biologically active complexes containing magnesium and zinc is manifested in the complementation of antioxidant and membrane-protective effects, as well as in the enhancement of cellular regeneration. This interaction occurs through the participation of trace elements in the work of antioxidant enzyme systems and stabilization of cell membranes.

The nature of synergy between Hibiscus moscheutos and other substances is predominantly potentiating and modulating, with a systemic and tissue-specific level of action aimed at the normalization of inflammatory, oxidative, and hormone-dependent processes.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://link.springer.com/arti...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Hibiscus moscheutos

Hibiscus moscheutos is a taxon with a wide range of applications in folk medicine, ethnobotany, and cultural practices, primarily in North America, where the plant originates. It was traditionally used by indigenous tribes of the eastern and southern United States, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Seminole, Natchez, and Creek, as a remedy with multifaceted action. The main use was for roots and flowers, which in the form of infusions and decoctions were used as warm lotions, compresses, rubs, and rinses. The soothing properties of the petals and the mucous texture of the roots, which have emollient and enveloping effects, were especially highly valued. The Delaware and Creek peoples used the warm decoction of Hibiscus moscheutos in applied body purification rituals, accompanied by special singing and fumigation with sage.

In the Canadian province of Ontario, the plant was used by Métis and French settlers as a local substitute for compresses and wraps. Later, in colonial and post-colonial medicine of the southern United States, the plant was included in the lists of home medicinal gardens as a source of herbal remedy for baths, steam inhalations, and ointments. West African traditions, adapted by African American communities, also attached particular importance to hibiscus flowers in rituals of family well-being and as a talisman against the evil eye. Oral evidence of the use of dried petals in ritual mixtures for burning in night ceremonies in Louisiana and Georgia has been preserved.

In the 21st century, Hibiscus moscheutos remains an element of ethnic phytotherapy among the indigenous peoples of Canada, and is also used in green pharmacies and home phytocosmetic recipes focused on skin restoration, care for mature skin, and harmonization of the body's condition during seasonal transitions. Isolated folklore mentions of the plant are recorded in the Slavic region, however, here it is perceived rather as an ornamental and esoterically symbolic flower — "a rose in the damp grass," associated with the image of femininity and unspoken feelings.

Isolated evidence of the use of Hibiscus moscheutos in South Asian and Southern European home traditions (especially among emigrants) has also been noted, but they do not form a stable school. In the context of symbolic and ritual meanings, the plant was considered a flower of attraction and was used in well-wishing rituals on riverbanks, especially during summer full moons. The connection with the moon, water, and the female cycle in some ethnocultures emphasizes the sacred status of the taxon.