Natural Cures: Hydrangea and Bladder Problems

The hydrangea plant is easily recognizable when in bloom for the dense, clustered tiny flowers that have made it so popular with gardeners for so many years. This plant is a perennial, and is often a fixture in prime locations in the yard. It is hardy and easy to cultivate, and grows well in almost every growing zone with the exception of extreme cold and extreme heat. Aside from all of the benefits of this plant for the garden though, the most important use may be its medicinal qualities for humans.

The part of the plant that is most useful medicinally is the root. Whether cut, mashed, and then boiled in water to create a decoction, or immersed in pure ethanol for several weeks to make a tincture, the end result is a liquid remedy that can be imbibed for relief from a variety of urinary system ailments. Though the hydrangea root has been proved in medical studies, it is not suitable for long term, daily use. But according to Vitawise.com, a natural supplement retailer, in cases of kidney stones, bladder infections, urinary tract infections, or even prostatitis the hydrangea root has been shown to be highly effective in delivering relief.

Botanical.com, a modern herbal resource, points out that two principal agents are believed to be responsible for the postive effects of hydrangea root on the urinary system: Hydrangenol and Hydrangeaic acid. Both compounds are thought to be responsible for the diuretic and astringent qualities of hydrangea root. Individuals taking hydrangea root report increased urinary flow, and the effect of the medicine on kidney stones is unparalleled. Hydrangea decoctions are known to decrease or eliminate gravely deposits in the kidneys, and patients passing these deposits have even reported minimal to non-existent levels of pain in the process.

For overall urinary health, periodic rounds of hydrangea root are recommended as a natural alternative to chemically derived medications. Hydrangea root increases the overall flow of urine, which is especially useful in aging patients as the otherwise stagnant urine can accumulate in the body, oftentimes leading to infections. With its optimizing effect on the entire urinary system, the hydrangea root can provide relief for other vital organs that are placed under stress due to the constant battle with waste build up. For this reason, hydrangea root plays a common role in most cleansing programs.

Vitawise: http://www.vitawise.com/benefits-of-hydrangea-root.html

Botanical.com: http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/h/hydran45.html