Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.): The untapped multipurpose plant for future

There are many medicinal plants in nature that have not been scientifically investigated and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) belonging to the family Malvaceae, is one among them. The unique feature of roselle is that it has some potential use for all the parts such as leaves, stems, flower buds, calyces, roots, and seeds. Various plant parts have been used in folk medicine as a diuretic, mild laxative, and treatment for cardiac and nerve diseases. Other medicinal properties attributed to roselle include antiseptic, antibacterial, aphrodisiac, astringent, cholagogue, demulcent, digestive, purgative, emollient, antiscorbutic, anticancer, antipyretic, etc. It is a natural antioxidant supplement due to its high vitamin C and organic acid content. The young leaves and stems of roselle are consumed as leafy vegetables and the calyces are used in the preparation of hot and cold beverages, jam, jelly, beverage, ice cream, butter, sauces, marmalade, candy, pickles, curry, condiment, vinegar, tea, etc as they are rich in calcium, phosphorous and iron. Roselle is a natural colourant for food, beverages, and pharmaceutical products due to its water-soluble anthocyanin pigments. The stems and branches are extensively used for the production of bast fibers, which are just next to jute fibers. Seeds are pounded into meals, added to cereals, or roasted as a coffee replacement and the seed oil is edible and an ingredient in paints. Roselle is an attractive ornamental plant too, used for its decorative red stalks with ripe red fruits. Thus, roselle is a future plant with many nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications, but still, it is an underutilized plant in India. Most studies in India concentrated on fiber yield and quality. It would be prudent to investigate the uses of this untapped multipurpose plant in the future