10 Benefits and Uses of Hydrangeas

The hydrangea is a flowering plant that offers benefits a plethora of benefits for the human body. This flower grows in North America and some parts of Asia and consists of 80 varieties. In addition to bringing beauty and fragrance to the garden or home, the health benefits of hydrangea make it a widely used natural healing agent.

Minerals and Nutrients

The hydrangea contains a variety of valuable minerals and nutrients the body needs. They are packed full of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and phosphorus. The flower is also a sound provider of flavonoids, kaempferol, and quercetin. Regular consumption of flavonoids is known to reduce the risk of some chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The hydrangea contains alkaloids similar to medications used to treat inflammation. Researchers believe the plant can help ease various conditions that cause inflammation, including symptoms associated with different kinds of arthritis and swelling of the kidneys. These conditions can cause pain, and the hydrangea plant may help to ease some of that pain.

Diuretic Properties of Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can help with urine flow for those with urinary tract difficulties and may even ease symptoms associated with urinary tract infections. The flowering plant can provide relief from headaches caused by kidney infections and chronic rheumatism. Mixing the hydrangea root with other herbs can help alleviate inflamed prostates in men. However, it is essential to discuss the use of herbs with a doctor first, especially when the individual is taking prescription medications.

Consume the Roots

The hydrangea roots are the part of the plant most commonly used to alleviate health conditions. After steeping in water for three to five minutes, the root is strained out, and the liquid is consumed as a tea. Combining hydrangea with products like dandelion and gravel root can further increase the benefits. A hydrangea root has a sweet yet pungent taste, but people who do not like the taste can choose capsules of dried root, instead. The root can also be peeled, boiled, and then fried.

Kidney Stones

The hydrangea plant might help dissolve kidney stones. It can also help remove waste from the kidneys so they can resume their important work. Pain from gallbladder and kidney stones can also be soothed with the use of this multipurpose plant.

Antioxidant Properties

When used in moderation, the antioxidants found in hydrangeas can reduce inflammation all over the body and give the immune system a boost to help it better fight off infections and diseases. One of these antioxidants, quercetin, can help lower blood pressure, alleviate skin irritation, and manage diabetes. Consumption of antioxidants can even fend off free radicals.

Conditions That May Benefit from Hydrangea

A variety of health conditions may benefit from the use of hydrangea. Hydrangea may eliminate pain associated with gout and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help to relieve discomfort in other parts of the body if they are inflamed by the condition. General chronic or acute pain affects so many people these days, and hydrangea could alleviate this issue without the addition to synthetic or toxic chemicals. However, bBe sure to ask a medical provider before trying any homeopathic medicines.

Side Effects

Some side effects come with the use of hydrangea for medical treatment. Users may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and tightness in the chest they use too much of the plant. The root of the hydrangea is best for short-term relief. Those who hope to use it for an extended period should discuss this with their doctor, first. Generally speaking, moderate use of hydrangea should not cause any side effects.

Safe Amount of Hydrangeas

If you plan on trying to use hydrangea for medicinal purposes, consider speaking to an herbalist. The recommended dose of hydrangea root is no more than two grams a day, for two to three days at a time. Dosage may differ depending on age, health, weight, and existing medical conditions.

Medication Interactions

Due to its diuretic properties, the use of hydrangea may interfere with the way some medications leave the body. Use of the root can lead people to use the restroom more often, which means oral medications may move through the body more quickly than they should, thus reducing their efficacy. Medicines used for mental health conditions have the most interactions associated with hydrangea.