China Rose

(Shoe Flower)
Sanskrit: जपा • Botanical: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn.

Gudhal (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is one of the most commonly grown ornamental shrubs in India. The red flowers are used medicinally, especially for hair care. The flower paste is applied on hair to promote growth and prevent graying. The flowers are 5-C (4-5 inches) in size with prominent staminal column. Red, pink, white and yellow varieties exist. It is extensively used as a hair tonic - flower paste mixed with oil prevents hair fall and promotes growth. The flowers are also used in menstrual disorders and as a uterine tonic. The leaves are emollient. The plant is evergreen with glossy leaves. Calcium (4.04%), Phosphorus (26.68%), Iron (1.69 mg/100g), Thiamine (0.031 mg%), Riboflavin (0.058 mg%), Niacin (0.61 mg%), Ascorbic acid (4.16 mg%) are reported. Carotene (7.34 mg per 100g fresh material) is also present. Dose: Flowers fresh 5-6; Churna 3-6 grams. Verse: 15-16.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Cyanidin-3-sophoroside, Cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside, Quercetin, Kaempferol, Mucilage
Also Known As
English: Shoe Flower, China Rose, Hibiscus
Sanskrit: जपा, जपाकुसुम, ओड्रपुष्प, अरुणा
Hindi: गुड़हल, जासूद

What is China Rose (Gudhal / गुड़हल)?

Gudhal (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is one of the most commonly grown ornamental shrubs in India. The red flowers are used medicinally, especially for hair care. The flower paste is applied on hair to promote growth and prevent graying. The flowers are 5-C (4-5 inches) in size with prominent staminal column. Red, pink, white and yellow varieties exist. It is extensively used as a hair tonic - flower paste mixed with oil prevents hair fall and promotes growth. The flowers are also used in menstrual disorders and as a uterine tonic. The leaves are emollient. The plant is evergreen with glossy leaves. Calcium (4.04%), Phosphorus (26.68%), Iron (1.69 mg/100g), Thiamine (0.031 mg%), Riboflavin (0.058 mg%), Niacin (0.61 mg%), Ascorbic acid (4.16 mg%) are reported. Carotene (7.34 mg per 100g fresh material) is also present. Dose: Flowers fresh 5-6; Churna 3-6 grams. Verse: 15-16.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Keshya (promotes hair growth)
  • Garbhashaya Balya (uterine tonic)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
  • Varnya (complexion enhancer)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

China Rose by Condition

Explore how China Rose is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

⟶
China Rose for Fertility & Conception
⟶
China Rose for Menstrual Health
⟶
China Rose for PCOS

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.