Shu Gui Hua - Flos Althaeae Rosea

Pharmaceutical Latin:	Flos Althaeae Rosea
Common English:	Alcea Rosea Hollyhock Flower Marshmallow plant

Category

Herbs that Promote Urination

Properties

Taste	Temperature	Entering Meridians	Dosage
No Information	No Information	No Information	No Information

Actions And Indications

Actions	Indications/Syndromes
Alleviates pain, Astringes, Expels Phlegm, Moistens the skin, Protects mucous membranes	Sore throat, mouth ulcers Cough and other respiratory problems such as bronchitis and whooping cough
Promotes urination, moistens the Intestines and unblocks the bowels	Enuresis, inflammation of the digestive tract; including peptic ulcers, hiatus hernias, ulcers, enteritis and colitis
Cools Heat, reduces inflammation and detoxifies	As a mouthwash for bleeding gums Inflammation of the kidneys and the uterus
Activates the Blood in the Lower Jiao	Dysmenorrhea

Contraindications, Incompatibilities And Herb/Drug Interactions

Major Combinations

Notes

1. It ranks among the most widely used folk remedies.
2. Expectorant syrups for respiratory and inflammatory problems are made from the flowers.
3. The roots of Althaea can be made into a mouthwash for inflammation, and in this form they can be very helpful in easing the irritation of teething infants.
4. Althaea soothes the skin and draws moisture into it, which makes it an excellent healing herb for softening and reducing inflammation across a wide range of skin conditions.
5. Laboratory tests in the 1960’s found that althaea root has anti-inflammatory activity on human tissue, suggesting that it may help in treating cuts, scrapes and other wounds, and serve as a remedy for eczema, psoriasis and pinkeye.
6. An extract of althaea root or stems can be applied to the skin to soothe burns and treat skin ulcers, and even as an alternative treatment for the redness and irritation of eczema.
7. It is an essential ingredient in ointments and creams that effectively cure boils and other abscesses of the body.
8. Althaea extract hydrates the skin and supports its moisture balance. As a non-oily emollient with soothing, softening properties, it is ideal for dry skin and promotes flexibility and resilience.