Wednesday, 17 December 2008

HYDRANGEA MACROPHYLLA


When I went up to Cameron Highlands with my mum at the beginning of December, she kept asking me to take pictures of the beautiful hydrangea flowers. Little did we know that besides being good to look at this plant is actually a medicinal herb.
The botanical name of this flowering shrub is Hydrangea arborescens (LINN.) It is easy to grow and can provide colour in the garden. The ones that I saw were pink or purple in colour. The word hydrangea comes from the Greek "hydra" meaning "water" and "angeon" meaning "vessel" referring to the plant's preference for moisture and to the shape of the seed capsule.

Medicinal use
Hydrangea is used to treat bladder problems, kidney stones, inflamed or enlarged prostate glands, inflammation and urinary tract problems. This herb is valued for its solvent properties that help break down and prevent further formation of stones Hydrangea contains chromium, manganese and silicon, and its solvent properties nutritionally support the urinary system. In herbology, the dried, powdered root is used.

SIDE EFFECTS FROM TAKING THIS HERB


Some people may have one or more of the side effects after taking hydrangea:
  • Breathing problems or tightness in your throat or chest
  • Chest pain
  • Skin hives, rash, or itchy or swollen skin
  • Taking too much may cause you to feel dizzy or have chest tightness
  • Its better to avoid long term use of HYDRANGEA ROOT (Hydrangea arborescens )
Reference: http://www.health-care-tips.org/herbal-medicines/hydrangea.htm

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