He huan hua

[Guest guest]

Anyone have info on this herb?

 

Sue

[Guest guest]

herbal remedies , " theherbalteapot "

<theherbalteapot wrote:

>

> Anyone have info on this herb?

>

> Sue

>

 

Hi Sue,

I found this info on a site I frequent for herbal info. Hope it

helps!

 

Tori

 

 

Albizzia Flower (he huan hua)

 

What is albizzia flower? What is it used for?

 

Albizzia flowers come from the albizzia tree, which is also known as

the mimosa. Native to China, the tree also grows in many parts of

the United States and can reach a height of 30 feet, with grey-white

bark and remarkably beautiful, fragrant flowers. Both the bark and

flowers have medicinal properties; albizzia bark will be discussed

in a related article. The flowers are fluffy, thread-like and shaped

something like a ball; they are usually pink or whitish-pink in

appearance. They are picked from the tree in the late summer and

early autumn, then dried for use.

 

In traditional Chinese medicine, albizzia flower is considered to

have sweet and neutral properties, and is associated with the Heart

and Liver meridians. Its main functions are to calm the spirit,

invigorate the blood, alleviate pain, and dissipate swellings.

Albizzia flower is revered as one of the most powerful types of

herbal tonics available; it is used to treat conditions such as

depression, insomnia and irritability. It improves the shen, or

spirit. It also improves blood circulation, treats pain and swelling

due to traumatic injuries (such as fractures), and reduces swellings

and abscesses on the skin and in the abdominal region.

 

How much albizzia flower should I take?

 

The typical dose of albizzia flower is between nine and 15 grams,

taken with water as a decoction. Albizzia flower can also be ground

into a paste or poultice and applied to the skin.

 

What forms of albizzia flower are available?

 

Both fresh and dried albizzia flower can be found at many Asian

markets and specialty stores. The flowers should be highly aromatic

and in good condition; whole flowers are preferable. Some herbal

shops also sell albizia extracts, infusions and powders.

 

What can happen if I take too much albizzia flower? Are there any

interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

 

Albizzia flower is considered extremely safe; it has been given a

class 1 rating by the American Herbal Products Association, meaning

that it can be used safely when taken in the appropriate dose. While

albizzia flower does not appear to cause drowsiness or affect

judgment, some practitioners recommend that patients should not

drive or operate heavy construction an hour after taking the

product.