The Hydrangea plant is renowned for its aesthetic appeal, particularly due to its vibrant blue and lavender flowers. It is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family.
In the past, people have employed the root and rhizome in herbal remedies to treat urinary disorders.
However, it is pertinent to explore what scientific research reveals regarding its purported benefits and safety.
What is hydrangea root?
The genus Hydrangea includes more than 70 species of plants, all classified within the Hydrangeaceae family. Notably, Hydrangea paniculata, Hydrangea macrophylla, and Hydrangea arborescens stand out for their medicinal properties.
Hydrangea paniculata and Hydrangea macrophylla grow naturally in Asia, while Hydrangea arborescens thrives in the eastern regions of the United States.
People often refer to these species by names like hortensia, seven bark, wild hydrangea, smooth hydrangea, bigleaf hydrangea, and mophead hydrangea.
Derived from the roots and underground stems (rhizomes) of these plants, Hydrangea root serves as a dietary supplement.
Traditional medicine practitioners have used it for centuries to treat prostate and bladder infections, claiming its diuretic properties increase urine production.
However, scientific evidence does not currently support this claim. Some also suggest it may help treat kidney and bladder stones, as well as an enlarged prostate.
Health benefits
Findings from test-tube and animal research imply that specific compounds present in hydrangea roots could possess medicinal properties.
Protect your kidneys
The presence of elevated levels of certain blood markers is associated with kidney damage. Research on mice suggests that hydrangea extract may reduce some of these markers.
For instance, elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are indicative of kidney impairment. Experiments involving animals with induced kidney injury demonstrated that hydrangea extract led to a significant decrease in BUN levels.
Additionally, one study noted a reduction in kidney damage among mice treated with the extract compared to a control group.
A similar investigation revealed that skimmin, a key compound in hydrangea extract, lowered BUN, blood creatinine, and urinary albumin excretion (UAE) in mice with kidney inflammation. Increased levels of creatinine and UAE are also markers of kidney dysfunction.
Furthermore, researchers found that the extract ameliorated medically induced kidney injury in mice by reducing inflammation and cell death in the kidneys, although this effect primarily occurred in cases of pre-existing kidney damage.
Nevertheless, despite these encouraging findings, further studies involving human subjects are necessary
Anti-inflammatory effects
Inflammation serves as the body’s inherent defense mechanism against harmful stimuli such as injuries, infections, and diseases.
The body initiates the process of inflammation by releasing pro-inflammatory substances, including nitric oxide, cytokines, interleukins, and tumor necrosis factor.
Nevertheless, prolonged or unwarranted inflammation can lead to significant damage to various organs. Therefore, it is essential to have anti-inflammatory mechanisms in place to regulate inflammation levels effectively.
Hydrangea root is rich in compounds such as coumarin and its derivatives, including skimmin, loganin, and sweroside, all of which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
Animal research has revealed that hydrangea extract can adjust the levels of pro-inflammatory markers and limit the infiltration of inflammatory cells into organs, effectively alleviating inflammation.
The bioactive compounds found in hydrangea root may alleviate symptoms and offer protection against autoimmune conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, obesity, and psoriasis, which are often associated with chronic inflammation.
Researchers need to conduct further studies to explore these effects in human populations.
Antioxidant effects
An excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body can result in a condition known as oxidative stress, which may cause tissue damage and various adverse health consequences.
Fortunately, antioxidants serve as protective agents against oxidative stress and its associated harm. Hydrangea root contains coumarins that exhibit antioxidant properties.
For instance, research involving mice demonstrated that hydrangea extract markedly diminished oxidative stress, indicating its strong antioxidant capabilities.
Additionally, another study revealed that the extract significantly reduced oxidative stress indicators, including nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA), in mice.
However, researchers have yet to validate these advantages through human studies.
Reduce blood sugar level
Hydrangea extract may offer advantages for conditions such as type 2 diabetes, primarily marked by elevated blood sugar levels. Laboratory research has demonstrated that hydrangea extract, which includes skimmin, can enhance blood sugar utilization and diminish insulin resistance.
Side effects
There is a notable lack of comprehensive research on the side effects and toxicity of hydrangea root. Anecdotal reports from users suggest that it may cause symptoms such as chest tightness, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
An older study from 2000 indicated that hydrangenol, an allergenic substance in hydrangeas, could provoke allergic reactions when the root makes direct contact with the skin.
In light of the insufficient information regarding the root’s toxicity, it is prudent for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid its use. Prior to consuming hydrangea root supplements, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
How to use hydrangea root
Hydrangea root supplements are available in various forms, including powder, syrup, tincture, capsule, and liquid.
Limited research on humans has prevented the determination of a definitive dosage for Hydrangea.
Nevertheless, health guidelines generally advise against exceeding 2 grams of hydrangea extract at one time to prevent toxicity or adverse effects.
You can utilize hydrangea root to prepare tea. To do so, steep approximately 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of dried or powdered hydrangea root in 250 milliliters (or 8 ounces) of water, allowing it to simmer for a short period.
It is essential to adhere to all instructions provided on the supplement labels prior to consumption. Individuals with dietary restrictions or pre-existing health conditions should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice.
In the event of experiencing any symptoms of illness, such as an allergic reaction, after taking hydrangea root supplements, seek medical attention promptly.
The bottom line
Hydrangea root has a long history of use, spanning several centuries, for the treatment of urinary ailments, including prostate and bladder infections, benign prostatic hyperplasia, as well as kidney and bladder stones.
Researchers conducting studies in laboratory settings and on animal models suggest a potential capacity for safeguarding the kidneys from injury. Furthermore, researchers hypothesize that certain compounds found in hydrangea may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It is crucial to emphasize that there is a significant lack of human studies validating its claimed benefits. Consequently, there is no standardized dosage for this supplement, and its consumption may lead to adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal discomfort, and dizziness.
Hydrangea root supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tinctures, powders, syrups, and liquid extracts.
