LEARNING AT THE POTTER'S WHEEL

ALSO KNOWN AS:
Hydrangea arborescens
Hydrangeaceae
Wild Hydrangea
Seven Barks

PARTS USED
Rhizomes, roots

PHYTOCHEMICALS & NUTRIENTS
Calcium, iron, kaempferol, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, quercetin, rutin, saponin, selenium, zinc.

The root also contains resins, gum, sugar, starch, other elements, and Hydrangin.

PROPERTIES & USES
The bark of Hydrangea arborescens is rough and multi-layered. This is where the name ‘Seven Barks’ comes from as each layer has a different color, giving it the appearance of another bark.

The rhizome is the horizontal stem of the plant found underground, from which roots and shoots grow. The roots are of variable length and thickness, having numerous arms, reaching a diameter of more than half an inch. They have a sweetish taste. The root should be cut or chopped when fresh, as that’s when they are tender with high water content. When dry, these roots are tough and difficult to cut.

Hydrangea Root stimulates the kidneys and acts as a diuretic. It is an aggressive stimulant of bowel movements, more powerful than laxatives, classifying it as a cathartic. While Hydrangea Root has these cleansing abilities, it is also known as a tonic which means it strengthens and revitalizes. These combined qualities make this herb good for bladder infection, kidney disease, obesity, and prostate disorders.

A decoction is said to have be an effective treatment for calculous diseases. Calculous deposits are a hardened material, usually mineral salts that form in an organ or duct of the body. As these gravelly deposits are removed the pain associated with them goes away. Combined with gravel root, this herb is good for kidney stones.

The fluid extract is used for alkaline urine, discharge related to inflammation, and mucous irritations of the bladder in aged persons. Concentrated syrup with sugar or honey, or a simple decoction of the root, may also be used.

CAUTIONS & CONSIDERATIONS
The leaves of this plant should NOT be consumed. They contain cyanide and can be toxic. As with all herbs, avoid use of plants that have been exposed to toxic chemicals or have not been certified 'chemical free.' This means caution should be exercised when considering whether or not to utilize roots from an ornamental plant. Also, be sure that you have used the particular variety that is Hydrangea arborescens.

Disclaimer: None of this is to be considered a substitute for medical examination and/or treatment. Use what you will, but do so knowing that you must consider your own circumstance and the application of these things with sound judgment.