Flora Friday - Hydrangea
Hello all!! Today's Flora Friday is Hydrangea!!
Hydrangea (Hydrangea) is a genus with over 75 different species and is part of the Hydrangeaceae family. I have determined that the specific Hydrangea pictured above is Hydrangea Macrophylla. Other names include:
- Hortensia
- Lace Cap Hydrangea
- French Hydrangea
- Christmas Flower
- Big Leaf Hydrangea
- Mountain Hydrangea
- Russian Sage
- Tea of Heaven
- Florist's Hydrangea
The name Hydrangea is actually derived from the Greek for "Water Vessel” (ὕδωρ =water, ἄγγος or αγγεῖον = Vessel).
Where To Find
The Hydrangea species is native to both Asia and the Americas. They like temperate zones and are mainly used for ornamental purposes so it's common to see them on parks and gardens.
Edible Parts
Some parts of this plant are somewhat edible!!
Very deadly to animals!!
Young leaves can be made into a tea, hence the name Tea of Heaven (used in Buddhist ceremonies). The leaves can also be used as a substitute for sugar and older leaves can be dried, turned into a powder and used as a flavouring. Shoots can also be consumed.
It is worth noting that the leaves do contain a toxin called Hydrocyanic Acid (cyanide), so I would limit consumption and always consult a doctor and expert. The levels of toxin decrease with the age of the leaves, often becoming nonexistent.
Medicinal Uses
Hydrangea can help with:
- Urinary tract problems
- Prostate problems
- Kidney stones
- Hay fever
- Lowering blood sugar (do not use if sugars are already low or if you have a blood sugar disorder)
- Liver problems
- Fighting parasitic infections
- Inflammation
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout
Due to the reason mentioned in the above section, it is not advised to take Hydrangea for more than a few days and only at a very low dose. Please consult your doctor before trying!
Hydrangea is also a diuretic and an antimalarial.
Magical Uses
In magical practices, Hydrangea is used for:
- Friendship
- Curse/Hex breaking (according to folklore)
- Love
- Binding
- Fidelity
- Protection
- Blessings
- Exposing thieves
- Boosting psychic abilities
Hydrangea is also strongly linked to the Fae.
Victorian Flower Language
In Victorian Flower Language, Hydrangea signify dispassion, boastfulness and heartlessness.
This blog is for educational purposes only, consult local experts if you're unsure. Consult your doctor before trying home remedies!
Tomorrow, we're carrying on with Sigils (don't worry we're nearly there!).
Blessings,
C )0(
👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻
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