Unlocking the Potential of Hydrangea Root: A Traditional Remedy
For centuries, hydrangea root has been used in alternative medicine to treat various health issues, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and inflammation. While animal studies show promise, human research is still needed to confirm its effectiveness.
What is Hydrangea Root?
Hydrangea root is a supplement made from the roots and underground stems of the hydrangea plant. It’s traditionally used to treat a range of health problems, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and inflammation.
Potential Benefits of Hydrangea Root
While there’s limited scientific evidence to support hydrangea root’s medicinal qualities, some animal and test tube studies suggest that certain compounds in the root may have benefits.
1. Soothing Urinary Tract Infections
Hydrangea root has been used for centuries to treat urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and prostate infections. The root’s diuretic effect may help ease these problems, but there’s no scientific evidence to support this theory yet.
2. Protecting Kidney Health
Hydrangea root is popular in alternative medicine for kidney care. Some animal studies suggest that it may promote kidney health by reducing blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels and improving kidney function. However, human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
3. Reducing Inflammation
Hydrangea root contains compounds like skimmin and coumarin, which may help reduce inflammation by stopping nitric oxide production, preventing interleukin 6 activation, and slowing down the body’s reaction to inflammation-causing substances.
4. Acting as an Antioxidant
Hydrangea root may also have antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and protect against cell and tissue damage.
5. Other Possible Benefits
Animal and test tube studies suggest that hydrangea root may also have benefits in treating autoimmune disorders, reducing the risk of bladder cancer, lowering blood sugar, and preventing liver toxicity. However, human research is needed to confirm these claims.
Is Hydrangea Root Safe?
There haven’t been studies on humans, so it’s impossible to know whether hydrangea root is safe for you to take or not. Anecdotally, users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and chest tightness. Additionally, hydrangea root may cause an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with your skin.
Before You Try Hydrangea Root
Check with your doctor first, especially if you’re taking lithium, pregnant, or breastfeeding. There may be interactions with medications or side effects that could harm you.
Other Natural Remedies to Try
If you’re looking for alternative remedies, consider:
- Dandelion root, stinging nettle, and apple cider vinegar for kidney stones
- Cranberries and garlic for UTIs
- Basil juice for inflammation
Finding Help
Talk with your doctor about what’s safe and effective for you. They’ll be able to give you tailored advice while taking into account any interactions that could happen with supplements or medicine you’re already taking.
The Takeaway
Hydrangea root is a popular herbal remedy, but there’s limited human research to support its claims. To be safe, it’s best to skip this remedy and opt for treatments backed by evidence.
Leave a Reply