HYDRANGEA

Latin Name: Hydrangea arborescens

Alternate Names: Seven Bark

Family: SAXIFRAGACEAE

Parts Used: Dried root, rhizome, leaves.

Properties: Antilithic, Cathartic, Diuretic, Laxative, Lithotriptic, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Arthritis, Backache, Bladder Stones, Bloody Urine, Capillary Weakness, Cystitis, Gout, Kidney Inflammation, Kidney Stones, Prostatitis, Urethritis, Urinary Infections

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

It helps relieve backache pain due to kidney problems. Hydrangea aids in the passage of kidney stones and helps prevent their recurrence. Hydrangea sedates urinary tract irritations and the pain associated with kidney stones. It soothes irritated mucus membranes.

Topical Uses: Burns, Sprains, Wounds

Topical Applications: Compress for burns, sprains and wounds.

Energetics: Pungent, Cool, Moist.

Chemical Constituents: Glycosides (hydrangin), saponins, resins, rutin, essential oils, flavnoids.

Contraindications: Excessive dosage can cause gastrointestinal distress, dizziness and chest congestion.

Comments: The folk name Seven Bark was used in reference to the fact that when the bark peels off, it does so in several layers of various colors.

-- Phil in KS (cshomestead@planetkc.com), May 06, 2002