Hibiscus sabdariffa is native to Africa but grows easily in tropical and subtropical regions. Hibiscus "tea" is a popular beverage all around the world but it can be eaten directly, dried and candied on desserts, and is often used to make concentrated syrups both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Hibiscus symbolizes feminity, love, happiness, and peace in several Pacific Island cultures, is used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, and is known to have been a beverage of choice for ancient Pharaohs.
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