Dendrobium Flower
Aliases：Jin Chai Hua、Diao Lan Hua
Shihuhua (Dendrobii Flos) is a Chinese medicinal herb that nourishes yin and clears heat. It is the dried flower of Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (family Orchidaceae). It is mainly produced in regions south of the Yangtze River in China.
Efficacy & Actions
benefit the Stomach and generate fluids, nourish Yin and clear Heat
Indications
1. Febrile disease with fluid damage, manifesting as dry mouth and vexing thirst. 2. Stomach yin insufficiency, manifesting as poor appetite, dry heaves, and dull epigastric pain. 3. Persistent deficiency heat after illness, yin deficiency with blazing fire, and bone‑steaming consumptive fever. 4. Blurred vision and flaccidity and weakness of the sinews and bones.
Modern Pharmacology
Immunomodulation: Polysaccharides and other components in Dendrobium flower participate in immune regulation, helping to enhance the body‘s resistance. Antioxidant: Flavonoids, polyphenols, and other constituents scavenge free radicals, exerting antioxidant effects. Antihypertensive: The flavonoid components it contains possess certain antihypertensive activity. Anti‑inflammatory: Studies have shown that extracts of Dendrobium flower exert anti‑inflammatory effects by modulating signaling pathways. Other effects: It also helps relieve depression, regulate qi and calm the spirit, and enhance metabolism.
Ingredients
Polysaccharides: Dendrobium polysaccharides are one of its main active components. Flavonoids: Rutin, etc., which exhibit significant antioxidant activity. Alkaloids: Dendrobine, dendroxine, dendramine, etc. Other components: Various amino acids, trace elements, and volatile oils.
Usage & Dosage
1-3g
Contraindications
For those with Spleen‑Stomach deficiency cold: Dendrobium flower is slightly cold in nature. Therefore, individuals with Spleen‑Stomach deficiency cold (often manifesting as stomach pain with cold sensation, poor appetite, abdominal distension, and loose stools) should not consume it in large amounts, so as not to aggravate discomfort. For pregnant women: To ensure safety, pregnant women should avoid drinking Dendrobium flower tea. For those with allergic constitution: People allergic to Dendrobium flowers should not use them, as they may cause allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, and difficulty breathing. Do not overconsume: Dendrobium flower is cool in nature. Excessive consumption may cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other discomforts. Use with caution during the early stage of a cold: The flower of Dendrobium chrysotoxum is slightly warm in nature and has a tonic effect. Consuming it during the early stage of a cold (especially a wind‑cold exterior pattern) may hinder the dispersal of the pathogenic factor, so it should be used with caution.
Selected Formulas
Often cooked with peanut kernels.
Daily Consumption
Tea: Take a small amount of dried Dendrobium flowers, steep in boiling water, cover and let infuse for a few minutes, then drink. Soup: When the soup is almost ready, add the washed Dendrobium flowers and cook for a few more minutes. Congee: When the congee is nearly done, add the Dendrobium flowers and continue cooking for 10–15 minutes. Other uses: Can also be used in steamed egg dishes, stir‑fries, etc.
Medicinal Parts
stem
Selection & Storage
After sealing, store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated place, protected from moisture and insects.