Hydrangea Extracts Show Promise in Treating Cancer and Autoimmune Disorders
Recent Research on Other Hydrangea Species
Recent research has brought renewed attention to hydrangea plants for their significant medicinal potential. Studies have highlighted the potential therapeutic applications of hydrangea extracts in treating cancer, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory conditions, opening doors for innovative approaches in modern medicine.
Combatting Cancer With Targeted Mechanisms
Groundbreaking research from Kyung Hee University in South Korea has unveiled the potent anti-cancer properties of Hydrangea serrata. They focused on Hydrangea serrata and its effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a prevalent form of liver cancer responsible for numerous fatalities worldwide. Their findings, published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, reveal that hydrangea extract effectively inhibits the growth of HCC cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (programmed cell death). The study identified that the extract upregulated p27, a negative regulator of cell cycle progression, and red
uced the expression of CDK2, thus halting cancer cell growth.
Additionally, the hydrangea extract showed promising results in reducing the growth of 3D tumor spheroids, which mimic realistic tumor environments, suggesting that it may limit tumor invasion. While further in-vivo studies are needed to confirm its efficacy, this marks a pivotal step in identifying Hydrangea serrata as a potential anticancer agent.
A Breakthrough for Autoimmune Disorders
Separately, studies on hydrangea root have unveiled its efficacy in modulating immune system responses. The root contains halofuginone, a compound that suppresses the overproduction of Th17 cells. Th17 cells, when excessively active, are associated with several autoimmune conditions, including multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Instead of broadly suppressing the immune system, halofuginone selectively targets these cells, offering a promising therapy with minimal adverse effects compared to conventional treatments.
According to Doctor’s Guide, hydrangea-based therapies could revolutionize treatment for autoimmune disorders by maintaining a balanced immune response without compromising overall immunity.
Anti-Inflammatory Potential
The anti-inflammatory properties of hydrangea were highlighted in a study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. It demonstrated that Hydrangea paniculata inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). These findings suggest that hydrangea could be effective in managing inflammation-related conditions like acute kidney injury and prostate gland inflammation.
Takeway
While research on hydrangea's medicinal applications could use more extensive clinical trials and in-vivo studies to confirm its efficacy, the potential of hydrangea extracts to combat critical illnesses like cancer and autoimmune disorders sparks hope for novel, plant-derived medical interventions.
Hydrangea’s capacity to inhibit cancer growth and manage immune system dysfunction is an inspiring example of how nature holds the key to pioneering treatments. With ongoing research efforts, hydrangea could play a significant role in shaping the future of medicine.
What is Hydrangea arborescens?
Hydrangea's medicinal properties are not a new discovery. Revered in East Asian traditional medicine, it was often brewed as "tea of heaven" to treat various ailments. This historical use aligns seamlessly with today’s scientific findings, reinforcing the connection between ancient remedies and modern pharmacological advancements.
Historically, Hydrangea arborescens was used mainly for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Native American tribes utilized the plant to treat urinary and kidney-related conditions, observing its potential to alleviate discomfort and improve overall kidney health. Other traditional applications included easing digestive issues, reducing swelling, and even promoting joint health.
While traditional remedies have supported Hydrangea arborescens for generations, modern science is beginning to uncover the chemical compounds within this plant and their potential benefits. Here’s a closer look at how it might work to support health:
1. Supports Kidney and Urinary Health
One of the most well-known benefits of Hydrangea arborescens is its potential support for kidney and urinary function. It’s often used in herbal medicine to help prevent the buildup of calcium crystals in the kidneys and bladder. This property may make it helpful for flushing toxins from the urinary system and potentially reducing the risk of kidney stones.
2. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Studies suggest that compounds in Hydrangea arborescens may exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. This property could make it useful for conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and other chronic inflammatory disorders.
3. Mild Diuretic Effects
The plant is considered a natural diuretic, which means it may help the body eliminate excess fluids and toxins. This can promote kidney health and help manage conditions like edema (fluid retention).
4. Antioxidant Potential
Preliminary research shows that Hydrangea arborescens contains antioxidant compounds, which help fight oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants play a vital role in reducing cell damage caused by free radicals and may contribute to overall long-term health.
5. Potential Role in Prostate Health
Herbalists have used Hydrangea for decades in supporting male reproductive health, particularly for prostate function. While more research is needed, its anti-inflammatory properties might offer benefits for addressing conditions like an enlarged prostate.
What precautions to take?
Before using Hydrangea arborescens, it is important to take precautions such as consulting with a healthcare professional to determine a safe dosage, as its effectiveness and potential side effects. Also, it is important to make sure the plant is free of contaminants, heavy metals, and adulterants, and adheres to the same standards of high quality as Dr. Clark store hydrangea root in capsules.
Also Known As: Hortensia, Seven Barks, Wild Hydrangea
Organs/Systems: Kidney, Bladder, Lung
Key Western Actions & Medicinal Uses: Diuretic, Antilithic (prevents kidney and bladder stones), Antifungal, Antihistamine, Anti-malarial, Cathartic, Tonic. Inflamed prostate, kidney stones, kidney gravel, bladder stones, inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), rheumatoid arthritis, chronic chest pain caused by bronchitis, malaria, inhibits autoimmune disorders, diabetes, hay fever.
Eastern
Also Known As: Chang Shan is also known as Dichroa Root. Meridians: Xiu Qiu – Kidney, Bladder, Lung. Chang Shan – Heart, Liver, Lung.
Key TCM Actions & Medicinal Uses: Xiu Qiu – Reduces Inflammation/Clears Heat/Expels Phelgm/Kidney Tonic: urinary tract infections, kidney stones or gravel, gout, edema, prostate disorders, PMS. Chang Shan – Malaria: in China this herb is famous for killing the parasites which cause malaria. It controls the chills and fevers associated with the disease, and eliminates the phelgm that is said to contribute to malaria outbreaks. Prevents tumors and alternating chills and fever. Induces Vomiting to expel phelgm: phelgm collecting in the chest and lungs. Stimulates the Uterus: promotes childbirth.
Sources
Hsieh, C. R., Yu, P. J., Chen, L. G., Chaw, S. M., Chang, C. C., & Wang, C. C. (2010). Cytotoxic constituents of Hydrangea angustipetala on human gastric carcinoma cells. Bot Stud, 51, 45-51.
Kim, Y. E., Hwang, J., & Kim, K. Y. (2024). Hydrangea serrata extract exerts tumor inhibitory activity against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells via inducing p27/CDK2-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 14(2), 65-72.
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