Saxifragaceae

Names: Seven Barks, Wild Hydrangea

Habitat: USA.

Collection: The roots should be unearthed in the autumn. Clean and slice whilst still fresh as they become very hard on drying.

Part Used: Dried roots and rhizome.

Constituents:

• Flavonoids; kaempferol and quercetin
• Hydrangin, saponin, volatile oil

Indications: Hydrangea's greatest use is in the treatment of inflamed or enlarged prostate glands. It may also be used for urinary stones or gravel associated with infections such as cystitis.

Ellingwood gives the following specific symptomatology for this under used remedy: "frequent urination with heat, burning, accompanied with quick, sharp, acute pains in the urethra; partial suppression of urine with general irritation and aching or pain in the back, pain from the passage of renal sand, are direct indications for this agent. I am convinced after a lifetime of experience that it is more specifically, more universally a sedative to pain and distress in kidneys and urinary bladder than any other one remedy." He gives the following indications: acute nephritis, lithaemia, backache due to urinary tract problems, urinary irritation.

Combinations: In kidney stones it is often combined with Stone Root, Bearberry and Gravel Root. In prostate problems it combines well with Horsetail and Saw Palmetto.

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put 2 teaspoonfuls of the root in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: 2-4 ml of the tincture 3 times a day.