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Organic Hydrangea

Also known as: Hydrangea, Hydrangea root, Hydrangea leaves, Hydrangea serrata

Overview

Hydrangea supplements are derived primarily from the leaves or roots of *Hydrangea serrata*. The leaf extract is often standardized for hydrangenol, a key bioactive compound, while the root extract contains coumarins and other phytochemicals. Traditionally, hydrangea has been used for urinary tract health and kidney stone prevention. Modern research, though still emerging, indicates potential applications in skin health, particularly for anti-aging effects, and antioxidant support. While some well-conducted randomized controlled trials exist, primarily for skin-related outcomes, other purported benefits are mainly supported by animal or in vitro studies. The evidence quality varies, with a need for more comprehensive human clinical trials to fully establish its efficacy across all traditional and potential modern uses.

Benefits

The most robust evidence for *Hydrangea serrata* leaf extract is in skin health. A high-quality randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 151 participants demonstrated that daily oral intake of 300 mg and 600 mg of the leaf extract over 12 weeks significantly improved skin wrinkle parameters, hydration, elasticity, texture, and roughness compared to a placebo. These improvements were statistically significant after 8 and 12 weeks, with the 600 mg dose showing more pronounced effects on elasticity. No adverse effects were reported in this study. Beyond skin health, preclinical studies suggest that hydrangea root extracts possess potent antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress markers like nitric oxide and malondialdehyde, though human data are currently lacking. There is also preliminary evidence from preclinical studies suggesting potential metabolic benefits, such as improved insulin resistance and lower blood sugar, as well as liver protection and anticancer potential, but these findings have not yet been confirmed in human trials.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for *Hydrangea serrata* leaf extract, particularly its active compound hydrangenol, appears to involve the modulation of skin-related pathways. This likely contributes to improved skin hydration and elasticity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In the root extract, coumarins and other phytochemicals act as antioxidants by scavenging reactive oxygen species and reducing oxidative stress markers. While the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, the compounds are believed to interact with inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress pathways. The clinical efficacy observed in skin studies suggests adequate oral bioavailability and absorption of hydrangenol and other beneficial compounds.

Side effects

Based on available clinical research, *Hydrangea serrata* leaf extract appears to have a favorable safety profile. A 12-week randomized controlled trial involving 151 participants reported no severe or serious adverse events related to the extract. Mild side effects were also not reported in this clinical trial. Animal studies further support a generally safe profile for hydrangea extracts. Currently, there are no known significant drug interactions or contraindications documented in high-quality human studies. However, it is important to note that sufficient safety data are lacking for special populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and children, meaning its use in these groups cannot be recommended without further research. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

For skin health benefits, the recommended dosage of *Hydrangea serrata* leaf extract, based on clinical trials, is 300 mg to 600 mg taken once daily. The 600 mg dose demonstrated more pronounced effects on skin elasticity compared to the 300 mg dose. There is currently no established maximum safe dose due to limited long-term human data. The clinical trial indicated that oral administration once daily was effective. It is important to use a standardized leaf extract containing hydrangenol, as this is the form that has been clinically studied for skin benefits. Root extracts are less studied clinically, and their appropriate dosage for specific conditions is not well-defined. As with any supplement, it is advisable to follow product-specific instructions or consult a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Is hydrangea safe for long-term use?

Limited data exist beyond 12 weeks; however, no adverse effects were noted in the 12-week clinical trial, suggesting a good short-term safety profile.

Does hydrangea help with kidney stones?

While traditional use suggests benefits for kidney stones, high-quality clinical evidence to support this claim is currently lacking.

How soon can benefits be expected?

For skin improvements, benefits were observed after 8 weeks of consistent use, with further gains noted at 12 weeks in clinical studies.

Are root and leaf extracts interchangeable?

No, they are not interchangeable. Leaf extracts have clinical data supporting skin benefits, while root extracts are primarily supported by preclinical data for other effects.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7352416/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of *Hydrangea serrata* leaf extract on skin aging in 151 healthy adults over 12 weeks. It found that daily oral intake of 300 mg and 600 mg significantly improved skin wrinkle parameters, hydration, elasticity, texture, and roughness, with no reported adverse effects. The study provides strong evidence for the anti-aging benefits of the leaf extract.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hydrangea-root – This source discusses various potential benefits of hydrangea, particularly focusing on root extracts. It highlights preclinical studies suggesting antioxidant effects, potential metabolic benefits like improved insulin resistance, and protective effects against liver toxicity and cancer cell proliferation. It emphasizes that these benefits are primarily from animal or in vitro studies and require human confirmation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1609605/full – This article, while not specific to hydrangea, is a systematic review of OTC herbal products, providing context on the general safety of herbal supplements. It indicates that herbal supplements are generally safe with mild adverse events, but it does not provide specific safety details for hydrangea. It serves as a general reference for herbal supplement safety.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10416186/ – This source, likely a review or research article, contributes to the understanding of *Hydrangea serrata* by discussing its traditional uses and phytochemical composition. It supports the notion that different parts of the plant (leaves vs. roots) contain distinct active compounds, which aligns with the varied research findings for each part.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8490?af=R – This research article likely delves into the pharmacological properties of *Hydrangea serrata*, potentially focusing on its bioactive compounds and their mechanisms. It contributes to the understanding of how the plant's constituents exert their effects, such as antioxidant or anti-inflammatory activities, which underpin its observed benefits.