Efficasy of Hydrangea in The Treatment of Renalstones.

Modern herbal authorities state Hydrangea comes with the specific warning of "Avoid during long term use" because of the cyanogenic glycoside content. Every plant is made up of many naturally occurring chemical constituents. This particular herb contains 1.0% of hydrangin, one of several kinds of cyanogenic glycosides. Plants in the Prunus species like apricot, peach and bitter almond pits also contain one of these cyanogenic glycosides and present the most serious concern. If a sufficient quantity is consumed, it can prove fatal. The concentration is much higher in these specific fruit pits but this warning is given for all plants containing this class of glycosides. In the interest of caution, long term use is discouraged(source:http://www.cherylsherbs.com/kidney_stones.htm)

Hydrangea aborescens, also called Seven barks (because its stem bark peels off in several layers of different colors), was used by the Cherokee Indians for the urinary system. While it is considered a solvent, it is also a soothing nutrient to help the body expel excessive water and toxins. In Greek mythology, Hydra was a water monster with nine heads, and if one was cut off, the monster grew back two. A water "hydrant" also helps remind us that hydrangea has to do with the body's water main. Hydrangea is very high in silicon, needed to maintain flexible arteries, especially important for good blood circulation through the filtering tubules of each kidney. Manganese has only been appreciated the last few years in its ability to strengthen nerves, the immune system, digestion of fats, blood sugar regulation, growth and reproduction. These factors also impact demands on the urinary system. Also found naturally in relatively large amounts is chromium, essential for proper blood sugar levels and circulatory health. This trace mineral is usually in short supply in the normal American diet. Hydrangea contains bitter compounds, like the saponin hydrangin. It also contains the flavonoids rutin, quercetin and others, along with soothing mucilaginous compounds.(source:http://www.theherbsplace.com/Hydrangea_p_414.html)