Abstract

Decoctions of Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. (Family Malvaceae) are very popular for the preparation of homemade refreshing drinks and are also used medicinally for a variety of ailments. Particularly remarkable are its red shinning petals of the flowers that have serious potential as colourants in various tablets and pediatric preparations. When sweetened with honey or sucrose it may also be used as flavor in children’s pediatrics preparations such as syrups. This possibility necessitated this review of the potential uses of this plant and the suggestion of using the colour from its flower petals in colouring pediatric syrup preparations.

Keywords:Hibiscus sabdariffa; Colourant; Pharmaceutical dosage forms; Paediatric formulations