Hydrangea Root: Health Benefits, Uses, and Safety Guide

Hydrangea plants are cherished worldwide for their stunning blooms in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. However, beyond their ornamental appeal, the roots and underground stems of certain hydrangea species have been utilized in traditional herbal medicine for centuries.

Native American healers and traditional Asian medicine practitioners have long valued hydrangea root for its potential therapeutic properties, particularly for supporting urinary tract health and kidney function. Today, this botanical supplement is gaining renewed interest among those seeking natural approaches to wellness.

This comprehensive guide examines what modern science reveals about hydrangea root, including its potential health benefits, traditional uses, available supplement forms, safety considerations, and proper dosage guidelines.

Understanding Hydrangea Root

The hydrangea genus encompasses more than 70 different plant species within the Hydrangeaceae family. Among these, three species are most commonly used for medicinal purposes:

• Hydrangea arborescens (smooth hydrangea or wild hydrangea) – native to the eastern United States
• Hydrangea paniculata (panicle hydrangea) – native to Asia
• Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea or hortensia) – native to Asia

Hydrangea root supplements are derived from the roots and rhizomes (underground stems) of these plants. The root contains various bioactive compounds, including coumarins, flavonoids, saponins, and other phytochemicals that contribute to its potential therapeutic properties.

Traditional herbalists have used hydrangea root primarily as a diuretic – a substance believed to increase urine production and flow. This traditional use led to its application in addressing various urinary tract concerns.

Traditional Uses of Hydrangea Root

For hundreds of years, various cultures have employed hydrangea root for specific health purposes:

Urinary Tract Support

Native American tribes traditionally used hydrangea root to support bladder and urinary tract health. The Cherokee nation, in particular, valued this botanical for addressing discomfort associated with urinary conditions.

Kidney Stone Management

Traditional practitioners have recommended hydrangea root for individuals dealing with kidney stones and bladder stones, believing it could help support the body’s natural processes for managing these conditions.

Prostate Health

Historical use includes applications for supporting prostate health, particularly in cases of enlargement or discomfort. Traditional herbalists believed the root could help maintain normal urinary flow in men experiencing prostate-related issues.

It’s important to note that while these traditional uses have been passed down through generations, they don’t necessarily reflect proven medical benefits. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using hydrangea root for any health condition.

Potential Health Benefits Supported by Research

While human clinical trials are limited, preliminary laboratory and animal studies have identified several promising properties of hydrangea root compounds:

Kidney Protection Properties

Several animal studies have investigated hydrangea extract’s potential to protect kidney function. Research conducted on mice has shown that certain compounds in hydrangea root may help reduce markers associated with kidney damage.

In studies where kidney injury was artificially induced in laboratory animals, hydrangea extract demonstrated the ability to lower blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels – a marker that becomes elevated when kidney function is compromised. Additionally, the extract appeared to reduce other indicators of kidney dysfunction, including creatinine levels and urinary albumin excretion.

One particularly interesting compound found in hydrangea is skimmin, a coumarin derivative that showed protective effects against kidney inflammation in animal models. The research suggests this compound may work by reducing inflammatory processes and cell death in kidney tissue.

Despite these encouraging findings, it’s crucial to emphasize that these results come from animal studies, and we cannot assume the same effects will occur in humans without proper clinical trials.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health conditions, and compounds that can safely reduce inflammation are of great interest to researchers. Hydrangea root contains several compounds with demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings.

The primary anti-inflammatory compounds identified in hydrangea root include:

• Coumarin and skimmin: These compounds have shown the ability to inhibit inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in animal studies.
• Loganin and sweroside: These additional compounds present in hydrangea extract have known anti-inflammatory activities.

In mouse studies, hydrangea root extract prevented inflammatory cells like macrophages and neutrophils from infiltrating kidney tissue, suggesting another mechanism by which it might reduce inflammation.

However, human studies are needed to confirm whether these anti-inflammatory effects translate to people taking hydrangea root supplements.

Antioxidant Effects

Oxidative stress occurs when harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulate in the body faster than antioxidants can neutralize them. This imbalance can contribute to cellular damage and various health problems.

Laboratory research indicates that coumarins in hydrangea root possess antioxidant properties. Animal studies have demonstrated that hydrangea extract can significantly reduce oxidative stress markers, including nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA).

By helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage, hydrangea root compounds may contribute to overall cellular health, though again, human research is necessary to confirm these benefits.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Preliminary test-tube and animal research suggests that skimmin, one of the active compounds in hydrangea root, may influence blood sugar metabolism. Studies have shown potential for improving insulin sensitivity and enhancing glucose uptake in cells.

While these findings are interesting, they remain highly preliminary. Anyone with diabetes or blood sugar concerns should consult their healthcare provider before using hydrangea root supplements, as they should not replace proven diabetes management strategies.

Liver Protection Potential

Some laboratory research has identified compounds in hydrangea stems and roots that may offer protective effects against liver toxicity. However, this research is in very early stages and has not been tested in humans.

Available Forms and How to Use Hydrangea Root

Hydrangea root supplements are available in several forms, each with different preparation methods and usage instructions:

Capsules and Tablets

Pre-measured capsules offer the most convenient option for those seeking consistent dosing. They typically contain powdered hydrangea root extract and are taken with water according to product instructions.

Powdered Root

Dried, powdered hydrangea root can be mixed into beverages or used to prepare tea. This form offers flexibility in dosing but requires careful measurement.

Tinctures and Liquid Extracts

These alcohol-based or glycerin-based extracts are concentrated forms of hydrangea root. They’re typically taken by adding drops to water or juice. Tinctures have a long shelf life and allow for easy dose adjustment.

Tea Preparations

Traditional preparation methods involve simmering dried hydrangea root in hot water to create an herbal tea. A common preparation uses approximately 1 tablespoon of dried root per cup of water, simmered for 15-20 minutes.

Syrups

Less common but available, hydrangea root syrups combine the extract with sweeteners and may be easier to consume for those who dislike the taste of other preparations.

Dosage Considerations

One significant challenge with hydrangea root supplementation is the absence of established, research-backed dosage recommendations. Because comprehensive human clinical trials are lacking, there is no official standard dose.

Anecdotal reports and traditional use patterns suggest that doses exceeding 2 grams per day may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects. However, even this guideline is not based on rigorous scientific study.

Factors that may influence appropriate dosing include:

• Individual body weight and metabolism
• The specific form and concentration of the supplement
• The reason for taking the supplement
• Concurrent use of other supplements or medications
• Individual sensitivity to herbal compounds

Given these uncertainties, it’s essential to start with the lowest possible dose and consult with a healthcare provider, preferably one knowledgeable about herbal medicine, before beginning supplementation.

Safety Concerns and Potential Side Effects

Research specifically examining hydrangea root’s safety profile and potential toxicity is limited. This lack of data means we cannot make definitive statements about its safety, particularly with long-term use.

Reported Side Effects

Based on anecdotal reports from users, potential side effects may include:

• Nausea and upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Gastrointestinal distress

These effects appear more likely to occur at higher doses or in individuals particularly sensitive to the plant compounds.

Allergic Reactions

Hydrangeas contain a compound called hydrangenol, which has been identified as a potential allergen. Direct skin contact with hydrangea plants or supplements may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including skin irritation, redness, or rash.

If you develop any signs of an allergic reaction while using hydrangea root, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.

Who Should Avoid Hydrangea Root

Due to insufficient safety data, the following groups should avoid hydrangea root supplements:

• Pregnant women: No research has established the safety of hydrangea root during pregnancy
• Breastfeeding mothers: It’s unknown whether compounds from hydrangea root pass into breast milk
• Children: Safety and appropriate dosing for children have not been established
• Individuals with kidney disease: Despite traditional use for kidney support, those with existing kidney conditions should only use this supplement under medical supervision
• People scheduled for surgery: Due to unknown effects on blood clotting and potential interactions with anesthesia, discontinue use at least two weeks before scheduled surgery

Potential Drug Interactions

Limited research means we don’t fully understand how hydrangea root might interact with medications. However, theoretical concerns exist regarding potential interactions with:

• Diuretic medications (due to the supplement’s purported diuretic effects)
• Medications for diabetes (due to potential blood sugar effects)
• Lithium (as diuretic effects might affect lithium levels)
• Medications metabolized by the liver

If you take any medications regularly, consult your healthcare provider before adding hydrangea root supplements to your regimen.

Selecting Quality Hydrangea Root Supplements

The dietary supplement industry is not as strictly regulated as pharmaceuticals, making it important to choose products carefully:

Look for Third-Party Testing

Choose supplements that have been tested by independent laboratories for purity, potency, and contamination. Certifications from organizations like USP, NSF International, or ConsumerLab provide additional quality assurance.

Check the Species

Ensure the product clearly identifies which hydrangea species is used. Products using H. arborescens, H. paniculata, or H. macrophylla are most common in research and traditional use.

Verify Ingredient Transparency

Quality manufacturers clearly list all ingredients, the amount of hydrangea root per serving, and whether standardized extracts are used.

Research the Manufacturer

Choose established companies with good reputations and transparent manufacturing practices. Look for companies that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Avoid Unrealistic Claims

Be skeptical of products making exaggerated health claims or promising miracle cures. Reputable companies make conservative, evidence-based statements about their products.

What the Research Reveals – And What It Doesn’t

It’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations about what we actually know regarding hydrangea root’s benefits:

What preliminary research suggests: Laboratory and animal studies indicate that compounds in hydrangea root may have kidney-protective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

What we don’t know: We lack human clinical trials demonstrating that these effects occur in people taking hydrangea root supplements at typical doses. We also don’t have long-term safety data or established dosing guidelines.

The gap between traditional use and modern scientific validation is significant. While traditional medicine systems have valued this botanical for centuries, meeting contemporary standards of evidence requires controlled human trials – research that has not yet been adequately conducted for hydrangea root.

The Bottom Line

Hydrangea root represents an interesting botanical with a long history of traditional use, primarily for urinary tract and kidney support. Preliminary laboratory and animal research has identified bioactive compounds with potentially beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and kidney-protective effects.

However, the lack of human clinical trials means we cannot make definitive claims about its effectiveness for any health condition. The absence of established dosing guidelines and limited safety data also raise important considerations for anyone thinking about using this supplement.

If you’re considering hydrangea root supplements, approach them as you would any herbal remedy:

• Consult with a qualified healthcare provider first, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications
• Start with the lowest possible dose to assess your tolerance
• Choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers
• Monitor for any adverse effects and discontinue use if they occur
• Don’t use hydrangea root as a replacement for proven medical treatments
• Maintain realistic expectations based on available evidence

As research continues, we may gain better understanding of hydrangea root’s true therapeutic potential and optimal usage guidelines. Until then, informed caution and professional medical guidance remain essential for anyone interested in this traditional herbal remedy.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Hydrangea Extract Studies
• PubMed Central – Kidney Protective Effects Research
• PubMed Central – Skimmin Anti-inflammatory Properties
• National Institutes of Health – Oxidative Stress Research
• PubMed Central – Blood Sugar Regulation Studies
• USDA Plants Database – Hydrangea Species Information
• PubMed Central – Traditional Herbal Medicine Preparations