Hydrangea is a very attractive shrub with clusters of white flowers that is probably growing in your back yard but did you know that the roots of the Hydrangea shrub are used in some detox products?

Native to the United States, Hydrangea has been used by Native Americans for thousands of years as a treatment for urinary tract, kidney and bladder problems.  This one of the reasons that it is included in many detox products.  Hydrangea root can combat bladder infections and will help with an inflamed prostate.  It will alleviate fluid build up by stimulating the kidneys and it is a great blood cleanser so it will clear toxins out of the blood.

Used as a diuretic, Hydrangea root will reduce water weight and fluid build up.  It is also effective in treating the swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.  Hydrangea root is dried and used to fight autoimmune disorders, malaria, enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and male pattern baldness and also to stabilize blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels.

Beside the root being ground into powder, Hydrangea is also used as syrup, tincture or made into a tea.

If you are a woman who is pregnant or breastfeeding is not advisable to use Hydrangea root as it may be harmful to the child or fetus.  Taking too much Hydrangea root may cause an upset stomach, rash, tightness in the chest or feeling of dizziness.  As with any dietary supplement you should consult with your physician before taking to determine if it will be harmful to your health.