What to know about Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea) before using it medicinally

Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as bigleaf hydrangea, is a plant revered for its medicinal properties that can improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and even exhibit anti-inflammatory effects.

From a horticultural standpoint, it is a popular ornamental plant that thrives in moist soils and partial shade, making it a staple in many garden designs. From a botanical perspective, it is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family and is distinguished by its large, showy flowers and broad, serrated leaves.

With ancient roots in traditional Chinese medicine, the hydrangea macrophylla has been mentioned in the classic Chinese pharmacopoeia 'Ben Cao Gang Mu' and is still used today in various herbal remedies.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Hydrangea macrophylla.

What are the medicinal properties of Hydrangea macrophylla?

Hydrangea macrophylla helps with inflammatory conditions, arthritis, and gout due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Its extracts have been used to reduce pain and swelling, and to improve joint mobility. It is also used to treat cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.

The active constituents of Hydrangea macrophylla include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular-protective effects. The extracts have also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties.

The most commonly used parts of the Hydrangea macrophylla plant for medicinal purposes are the leaves and roots. The leaves contain high amounts of flavonoids and phenolic acids, while the roots are rich in triterpenoids and other bioactive compounds. These parts are typically dried and extracted to produce medicinal products.

Improper use of Hydrangea macrophylla can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, due to its high tannin content. Prolonged use can also lead to kidney damage and electrolyte imbalances. Additionally, individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should avoid using the plant.

Precautions when using Hydrangea macrophylla medicinally include pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the plant's extracts may affect fetal development or milk production. Individuals with kidney or liver disease should also consult their healthcare provider before using the plant, as its bioactive compounds may exacerbate existing conditions.

What are the horticulural aspects of Hydrangea macrophylla?

Hydrangea macrophylla grow in a wide range of soils but prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions with pH 6.0-7.0. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and tolerates various temperatures, from -10°C to 40°C. The plant requires regular watering, but it's drought-tolerant once established.

For optimal growth, plant bigleaf hydrangea in spring or fall when the weather is mild. Dig a hole that's two to three times the width of the root ball, and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Plant the hydrangea at the same depth as before, and water well to settle the soil.

Bigleaf hydrangea produces large, fragrant flowers in mid to late summer. To encourage blooming, fertilize the plant with an acidic fertilizer in early spring, and prune it in late winter to promote healthy growth. Harvest the flowers for arrangements, but be sure to leave some on the plant to attract pollinators.

Common pests affecting bigleaf hydrangea include Japanese beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot also occur. To prevent these issues, maintain good air circulation, water carefully, and use resistant varieties or fungicides as needed. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation or infection.

What are the botanical aspects of Hydrangea macrophylla?

Hydrangea macrophylla is a flowering plant in the family Hydrangeaceae. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 3 meters tall, with a spread of around 2 meters. The leaves are ovate or cordate, 10-35 cm long, and 5-10 cm wide.

Taxonomically, Hydrangea macrophylla is classified as a species in the genus Hydrangea, which belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae. It is a member of the order Cornales, class Magnoliopsida, and division Magnoliophyta. The species is further classified as Hydrangea macrophylla (Thunb.) Ser., with a type number of 1.

There are several variants of Hydrangea macrophylla, including 'Macrophylla', 'Preziosa', and 'Variegata'. The 'Macrophylla' variant has large, rounded leaves, while the 'Preziosa' variant has leaves with a pink or purple tint. The 'Variegata' variant has leaves with white or yellow variegation.

Hydrangea macrophylla is native to East Asia, specifically in China, Japan, and Korea. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, including the Americas, Europe, and Australia. It is commonly found in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and along streams.

The life cycle of Hydrangea macrophylla is perennial. It grows from a woody stem or small tree, with new growth emerging in spring. The plant flowers from May to July, producing large, showy inflorescences. The flowers are followed by red or purple berries, which attract birds and other wildlife. The plant typically dies back to the ground in winter, regrowing in the spring.

What are the historical aspects of Hydrangea macrophylla?

Hydrangea macrophylla is an ancient plant with a rich history of medicinal and culinary uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, the roots were used to treat fever, rheumatism, and digestive issues. In Japan, the leaves and flowers were used in teas and salads.

In Japanese mythology, Hydrangea macrophylla was associated with the goddess of love, Benzaiten. The plant was believed to bring good fortune and happiness to those who cultivated it. The myth of the "weeping hydrangea" was also popular, where the plant was said to have wept tears of sorrow for the loss of the goddess.

In various cultures, Hydrangea macrophylla has been associated with different symbolic meanings. In Japan, the blue flowers are said to symbolize gratitude and devotion, while the pink flowers represent heartfelt emotion. In Korea, the plant is associated with the symbol of femininity and beauty.

The earliest written records of Hydrangea macrophylla date back to the 10th century in Japanese texts. The plant was mentioned in the "Wakan Sansai Zue" ( Illustrated Manual of Exotic and Domestic Products), a comprehensive encyclopedia of Japanese flora.

Historical artifacts featuring Hydrangea macrophylla include ancient Chinese ceramics and Japanese textiles. The plant's image has also been found on ancient Japanese temple walls and in traditional Korean pottery. These artifacts demonstrate the plant's significance in various cultures and its long history of cultural and symbolic importance.