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Health

This Floral Supplement May Protect Your Kidneys and Stop Inflammation in Its Tracks

When you think of hydrangeas, you probably conjure up images of gorgeous pink and purple flowers that brighten up any outdoor space. But hydrangeas aren’t just eye candy! These plants also contain what’s called hydrangea root, an herb that can make a huge different in fighting inflammation and keeping your kidneys healthy when breaking down waste. Find out how you can harness these health benefits below.

What is hydrangea root?

Hydrangea root is pretty self-explanatory: This supplement comes from the root and underground stem that make up the plant system.

A fun fact: there are over 70 different plants that all fall under the hydrangea umbrella, but the three called Hydrangea paniculataHydrangea macrophylla, and Hydrangea arborescens are the most popular when it comes to herbal medicine, though others may be used as well.

Hydrangea root has been used for hundreds of years to treat bladder and prostate infections, but scientists say that the research is much stronger when looking at this herb’s effects on kidney health and inflammation. Preliminary studies show that it may reduce levels of harmful blood urea nitrogen in the kidneys, which signify how well your body is processing and expelling waste. Numerous animal studies have also illustrated that it contains a powerful compound called coumarin that may stop inflammatory cells from growing in the body. For people who may be worried about inflammation as they age or may want to try natural remedies to fight against kidney disease, it offers a one-two punch.

What are side effects of taking hydrangea root?

Most hydrangea supplements are relatively mild and may cause nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and chest tightness if taking large doses. Currently, it’s recommended that people take no more than two grams of hydrangea root supplements per day, but your doctor could probably give you a better idea of what will work for you. Researchers are still looking into the long-term side effects of taking it for months or years at a time.

However, people who may be allergic to hydrangeas due to a compound hydrangenol should steer clear of taking it, as should women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Hydrangea root comes in a number of forms, including capsule (Buy on Amazon, $13.91), powder (Buy on Amazon, $20.05), and liquid extract (Buy on Amazon, $19.97). You can take oral supplements every day or make hydrangea root tea by combining one tablespoon of hydrangea root and eight ounces of hot water. Once you talk to your doctor about trying it out, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your body and lifestyle!

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