Meet the plants: hibiscus
“Abolition is about presence, not absence. It’s about building life-affirming institutions.” -Ruth Wilson Gilmore
Hibiscus belongs to the Malvaceae or mallow family, which contains almost 300 species. The term “hibiscus” comes from the Greek hibiskos or mallow.
Not just a pretty face- but it can help with many ailments— all parts of hibiscus plants are used traditionally. Hibiscus is special in that it possesses both demulcent and astringent properties. According to Mountain Rose, Astringents are herbs that dry, draw, or shrink tissue, which helps to create a barrier. You may know it's an astringent if you feel that "puckered" feeling. Herbs that are mucilaginous or oily and produce a "goo" that coats, soothes, and protects mucus membranes. This slime action triggers a reflex that helps promote natural moistening secretions within the body.
Several cultures use leaves, calyces, and petals to make a medicinal mixture known as sour tea. Some say the flavor of sour tea is similar to that of cranberry juice. Historically, hibiscus tea has been used in to decrease body temperature, treat heart disease, and sooth a sore throat. The flowers and leaves have been traditionally used to treat conditions such as cancer and gallbladder attacks, to lower blood pressure , to relieve dry coughs , and topically to treat skin afflictions. Recent studies have looked at the possible role of hibiscus in the treatment of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Roselle Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) has a reputation for its internal benefits, but also is sometimes referred to as the “Botox Plant” from its naturally gentle form of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and high antioxidant content.
Haiti has adopted the hibiscus their national symbol. In Haiti, the hibiscus has many uses. Plant extract is thought to have antiviral qualities and is used to boost immune response, regulate cholesterol, and lower body temperature. The power packed Roselle Hibiscus is not only consumed as a health drink. It’s also used as an ingredient in many products, from jams, to sauces, to face cream, to fabric dye.
A family favorite Douglas & Bre’yon harvesting hibiscus calyces at Solitary Gardens.
A study in opposites, sour tea made from roselle hibiscus is a lip-puckering astringent delight that actually helps us stay moisturized and hydrated.
How does abolition require us to partake in opposing practices, beliefs or experiences? What would an abolitionist’s approach look like to facilitate a “both and” situation?
To that point, we learn from Dr. Ruth Gilmore and others that abolition is just as much about building as it is destroying, about presence as it is absence.
How do stunning Malvaceae flowers, like hibiscus reflect on these notions and ultimately teach us to be better PIC abolitionists?
