Published Paper Details:

The aim of this paper was to bring out the beneficial properties present in petals of hibiscus flowers and their fortification in fruit juice. One of the flowers of Indian Subcontinent is �Hibiscus rosa sinensis� which is rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins, flavonoids. Main coloring pigment is anthocyanin which is proved to cure cancer, lower down cholesterol level and clear the digestive tract. Freshly plucked hibiscus flowers were taken and their petals were removed by hand. Petals were put in a tray drier for drying at 51.8�C. After drying they were crushed into fine pieces manually.100 grams of powdered leaves were obtained. Anthocyanin being water soluble, the powder was boiled in water at 80�C.The anthocyanin pigment was extracted in liquid form. It was mixed with lime juice and polyphenol content was measured by gallic acid equivalent method. Final product obtained showed 13 times increase in polyphenol content compared to commercially available fruit juice. Hence the above juice can be used as an effective health drink for human consumption and protect the body from free radical damage.