나라 꽃 무궁화...몸에도 좋아

Local scientists have unveiled some new health benefits of South Korea's national flower, Mugunghwa,... which include preventing osteoporosis.
But it's not just medicinal,... it can be enjoyed as a refreshing traditional rice drink.
Cho Sung-min reports.
Researchers at the Rural Development Administration have discovered new health benefits of South Korea's national flower, Hibiscus syriacus, commonly known as Korean rose, Rose of Sharon or Mugunghwa.
Mugunghwa was originally known as a medicinal plant used to treat a variety of symptoms, such as diarrhea.
According to the research team, the Korean rose is also abundant in anti-oxidants and can prevent osteoporosis.
"The flower is full of components known to prevent osteoporosis,...so there is a significant economic value to mass-cultivate it."
In addition to unveiling new health benefits, researchers have teamed up with a local firm to come up with new traditional liquor made of the flower.
Liquor makers use dried Mugunghwa buds and petals should be thoroughly mixed with rice and yeast and be stored in a jar.
It takes up to three months for the mixture to be fully fermented.
"To celebrate the Korean Independence Day, August 15th,...we set Mugunghwa's alcohol content at eight-point-one-five percent. You can find out how incredible the flower smells."
To find more ways to use the flower, the Rural Development Administration said it is currently putting effort to develop Mugunghwa with superior longevity and health effects.
Cho Sung-min, Arirang News.