Ixora
Other Names: Hundred-Day Red, Azalea of the Mountains, Red Tassel Tree.
Nature and Flavor: Sweet, Pungent, Cool.
Medicinal Parts: The root, stem, and flower of Ixora chinensis Lam., a plant from the Rubiaceae family, are traditionally used in herbal medicine.
How to Use Ixora and Dosage
Dosage: For roots and stems, 0.5 to 1 liang (approximately 15-30 grams); for flowers, 3 to 5 qian (approximately 9-15 grams).
Preparation: Roots and stems can be harvested year-round. After washing thoroughly, they can be sliced and sun-dried or used fresh.
Benefits and Main Indications of Ixora
Key Actions: Dispels blood stasis and stops bleeding, regulates menstruation, lowers blood pressure.
Main Indications:
- Root and Stem: Traditionally used for symptoms like hemoptysis (coughing up blood) associated with pulmonary tuberculosis, stomach pain, rheumatic joint pain, and traumatic injuries. Research indicates Ixora chinensis possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, supporting its application in managing pain and swelling from injuries or rheumatic conditions. PMID: 24706598
- Flower: Commonly used for irregular menstruation, amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), and high blood pressure. Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the importance of dispelling blood stasis for optimal circulatory and gynecological health, a key action attributed to Ixora. PMID: 23646549 Studies suggest Ixora chinensis may offer vasorelaxant properties, contributing to its traditional use for blood pressure management. PMID: 18456209
Contraindications for Ixora
Important Note: Pregnant women should strictly avoid this herb. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional or a licensed practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are taking other medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Traditional Combinations with Ixora
① For High Blood Pressure: Take 3 to 5 qian (approximately 9-15 grams) of Ixora flowers, decoct with water, and take orally. (As cited in "Commonly Used Chinese Herbal Medicine Handbook" by Guangzhou Military Region)
② For Irregular Menstruation and Amenorrhea: Take 3 to 5 qian (approximately 9-15 grams) of Ixora flowers, decoct with water, and take orally. (As cited in "Commonly Used Chinese Herbal Medicine Handbook" by Guangzhou Military Region)
3-Second Self-Test & 30-Second Self-Rescue
Feeling like your body's flow is off, or experiencing unexplained aches and discomfort? Take 3 seconds to observe if you have persistent digestive issues, dark menstrual blood, or frequent bruising.
If you're noticing these signs of potential blood stagnation or internal imbalance, immediately consider gentle, consistent movement like walking or stretching, ensure you're well-hydrated, and start researching a local licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner for personalized guidance. They can help identify the root cause and suggest appropriate herbal remedies or therapies.
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
