Just a quick search on Yahoo brought this up: Fig leaf tea helps support proper insulin response. Researchers in Spain have shown that fig leaf (ficus carica) tea can help maintain proper insulin levels. It can easily be made using 2 teaspoons of dried cut leaves. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the leaves, cover, and let the brew sit for 10 to 15 minutes before drinking. Drink 1 cup each morning at breakfast. Dried fig leaves can usually be purchased at your local health food store. Consult with your doctor - if you're currently taking medications, before use. 2 years ago http://www.drdavidwilliams.com/Legacy/c/blood_sugar_health_recs.aspx

You can also buy the roselle seeds from Richter's, a Canadian herb supplier. (richters.com) jmcgraw, I would love your roselle jelly recipe if you're willing to share. you can send via an email. TIA. Cora

I don't have a specific recipe, but as a kid we had a lebanese friend who made spectacular stuffed grape leaves, I remember they had meat (lamb or beef) and rice stuffed in grape leaves that were simmered in a tomato sauce. I bet it would be delicious with basil leaves, maybe google lebanese and stuffed grape leaves.

I have one growing in front of my shed it is about 7 feet tall! I had hedged it a bit a few months ago and it kind of bushy. They normally bloom for the fall the flowers are not so striking because it is the same color as the foligage. I love the deep rich burgundy leaves it gives the garden a good contrast. I had purchase seeds online from P Seeds this is how I aquired the plant. I have lots of small plants that I am potting up for friends as this plant reseeds in abundance. I have my red sheild planted in the ground for over 18 months Rochelle