Wildcrafted Hydrangea
Also known as: Wildcrafted Hydrangea, Hydrangea root, Hydrangea serrata, Hydrangea macrophylla, Hydrangea arborescens
Overview
Wildcrafted Hydrangea refers to the root or rhizome of various *Hydrangea* species, primarily *Hydrangea arborescens*, *Hydrangea serrata*, and *Hydrangea macrophylla*, harvested from natural environments. Traditionally, it has been utilized as an herbal supplement for its diuretic properties, aiding in conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), and prostatitis. Emerging research also explores its potential in weight management and for hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects. While some human clinical trials exist, particularly for *Hydrangea serrata*, much of the evidence supporting its traditional uses remains preliminary, often derived from in vitro or animal studies. The overall quality of evidence for its traditional applications is moderate to low, with a notable randomized controlled trial supporting its weight loss benefits. However, comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on wildcrafted hydrangea as a supplement are currently lacking.
Benefits
Wildcrafted Hydrangea shows several potential benefits, though the strength of evidence varies. A significant benefit is **weight loss and body fat reduction**, supported by a 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) where 600 mg/day of standardized *Hydrangea serrata* extract (WHS) led to statistically significant reductions in body weight, fat mass, BMI, body fat percentage, hip circumference, visceral fat area, and abdominal fat measures in overweight/obese adults compared to placebo. Side effects in this study were mild and rare, indicating a promising effect with high-quality evidence. Traditionally, it is valued for its **diuretic effect**, increasing urine output, which may help prevent kidney stone progression, reduce UTIs, and alleviate symptoms of BPH and prostatitis by decreasing residual urine volume. This benefit is primarily supported by traditional use and some preliminary evidence. Furthermore, animal and cell studies suggest **hepatoprotective effects** from *Hydrangea macrophylla*, indicating protection against oxidative stress-induced liver damage, though human data is absent. Preliminary in vitro and animal studies also hint at **immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer effects**, but these lack human clinical confirmation.
How it works
The primary mechanism for Wildcrafted Hydrangea's traditional use is its **diuretic effect**, where compounds in the root increase renal urine output, effectively flushing the urinary tract. This action contributes to its potential benefits in urinary tract health. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are likely attributed to bioactive compounds like hydrangenol and other phytochemicals, which modulate oxidative stress pathways and inhibit apoptosis signaling, such as the MAPK/caspase-3 pathways, offering potential liver protection. For weight loss, the precise molecular targets are still under investigation, but it is believed to involve metabolic regulation. Bioavailability data for the various compounds are limited, which is why standardized extracts, like those used in clinical trials, are preferred to ensure consistent dosing and efficacy.
Side effects
Wildcrafted Hydrangea is generally well tolerated at moderate doses. In clinical trials, 600 mg/day of standardized *Hydrangea serrata* extract for 12 weeks resulted in only mild and rare side effects, such as menstrual pain and stomach pain. However, anecdotal reports and traditional use suggest other possible adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, chest tightness, and allergic skin reactions, particularly due to the presence of hydrangenol. It is crucial to note that high doses, specifically exceeding 2 grams of dried root, may be unsafe and have been associated with more pronounced side effects like dizziness and chest tightness. While no significant drug interactions or contraindications are extensively documented, caution is advised due to the limited comprehensive safety data available. Furthermore, safety data for special populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and children, are currently lacking, making its use in these groups not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
Clinical trial evidence supports a specific dosage for weight loss: 600 mg per day of standardized *Hydrangea serrata* extract, taken over a 12-week period. For other applications, traditional use doses vary, and there is no established standardized dosing for general wildcrafted hydrangea root. It is critical to avoid high doses, specifically exceeding 2 grams of dried root, as this has been associated with potential adverse effects. The timing of administration and the form (e.g., capsules, teas, tinctures) depend on traditional practices, but standardized extracts are generally preferred for consistent and reliable dosing. While no specific cofactors are known to be required for its efficacy, data regarding absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds are currently sparse.
FAQs
Is wildcrafted hydrangea safe?
At moderate doses (600 mg standardized extract), it appears safe with mild side effects. However, high doses (over 2g dried root) may cause adverse effects like dizziness and chest tightness.
Does it really help with kidney stones?
It may help prevent kidney stone growth by increasing urine flow due to its diuretic properties, but it does not directly break up existing stones.
Can it treat infections?
It may aid urinary tract infections by flushing bacteria from the urinary tract, but it should not be used as a replacement for prescribed antibiotics.
How soon do effects appear?
For weight loss, effects were observed after 12 weeks of consistent use in a randomized controlled trial. Other effects may vary.
Is it effective for prostate issues?
Traditional use suggests it may relieve prostate symptoms through its diuretic effect, but robust clinical evidence specifically for prostate issues is currently insufficient.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8747274/ – This high-quality randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a standardized *Hydrangea serrata* extract (WHS) on body weight and fat in overweight/obese adults. The study found that 600 mg/day of WHS significantly reduced body weight, fat mass, BMI, and abdominal fat measures over 12 weeks with mild side effects, indicating its potential for weight management.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698525/ – This preclinical study explored the hepatoprotective effects of *Hydrangea macrophylla* extract. It demonstrated that the extract protected against arsenite-induced liver oxidative stress in cell lines and animal models by inhibiting MAPK/caspase-3 pathways, suggesting potential liver benefits, though human data is needed.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-663/hydrangea – This review summarizes various claims and safety information regarding Hydrangea. It highlights insufficient evidence for many traditional uses like urinary and prostate conditions and notes possible side effects at high doses, emphasizing the need for more robust clinical research for many of its purported benefits.
