Overview
China Rose is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for skin disorders. 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.
How China Rose Helps with Skin Disorders
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, China Rose has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing skin disorders:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Snigdha (unctuous)
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
Other Herbs for Skin Disorders
See all herbs for skin disorders on the Skin Disorders page.
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.