Is there no end to the healing powers of Mother Nature? She is constantly providing her children with little gifts from her seemingly endless medicine cabinet, probably because we keep finding new ways to hurt ourselves.

I recently discovered that, in addition to green tea, red wine, and dark chocolate, hibiscus flowers contain antioxidants that are beneficial to heart health.
In a new study by Chau-Jong Wang from the Chung Shan Medical University in the Republic of China, hibiscus extract was found to have reduced cholesterol and lipid build-up in the arteries of rats.

With the levels obesity at a devastating peak, especially in the United States, any good news regarding cholesterol-reducing methods is welcomed with open arms.

Unfortunately, many people who are overweight and thus face serious medical issues may have unrealistic expectations. If they are looking for a “miracle drug” that will significantly lower their cholesterol overnight, they will be sadly disappointed.

However, if they are willing to commit to a healthier lifestyle including proper diet and regular exercise, then the antioxidant compounds (including flavinoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins) found in hibiscus extract can prove to be a helpful dietary supplement.

It is ironic that, despite the amazing technological advances we continue to make in the field of medicine, individuals still cannot be trusted to keep themselves healthy.
It is obvious that understanding what is healthy and unhealthy is simply not enough. We must stop pointing fingers and start following our own advice if we want to live happy and healthy lives.