The flower buds of the Daidaihua plant, belonging to the Asteraceae family, are commonly known as Daidaihua flowers. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are referred to as Fushoucao. The fruit of the Daidaihua plant is also known as Daidaihua Zhike in Chinese medicine and has high medicinal value. Let's now explore the benefits, uses, and cultivation methods of Daidaihua flowers.
Daidaihua flower image
【Benefits and Uses of Daidaihua Flowers】
1. Weight Loss
It is said that tea made from Daidaihua flowers has a weight loss effect. Although it has a slightly bitter taste (you can add French rose to reduce the bitterness), it has a strong fragrance that can refresh the mind. It can help calm the mood, relieve tension and anxiety. Additionally, it can alleviate diarrhea caused by stress, promote blood circulation, and have a slimming effect.
2. Beauty
Daidaihua flowers are also beneficial for beauty. They contain a large amount of tannic acid, which has powerful antioxidant properties and fights against free radicals. They can accelerate metabolism, protect the skin from harmful substances in the environment, regulate the balance of oil and water in the skin, improve rough and dull skin, and dissolve heavy makeup.
3. Ornamental
The flowers of Daidaihua are white, fragrant, and come in different sizes, measuring 2-2.5cm in length. The beautiful orange-yellow round fruits can remain on the tree for several years, making them a unique and attractive addition to gardens and indoor potted plants.
Daidaihua fruit image
【Precautions for Daidaihua Weight Loss】
1. During the period of taking Daidaihua flowers, do not go on a diet and ensure proper nutrition intake.
2. Avoid alcohol consumption and reduce intake of foods that may cause internal heat.
3. Do not drink tea as it contains caffeine, which may reduce the effectiveness of the flowers.
4. Do not take Daidaihua flowers simultaneously with other weight loss medications. If you have previously taken other weight loss drugs, you should stop them for one week before starting Daidaihua flowers.
5. During the medication period, you can also take Cassia seed tea by steeping it in water, similar to drinking tea. This can detoxify the body, reduce internal heat, and relieve constipation.
6. For individuals with weak constitution or more pronounced adverse reactions, it is recommended to take Daidaihua flowers for one week after meals before following the normal dosage instructions mentioned above.
Daidaihua planting image
【Cultivation Methods of Daidaihua Flowers】
Daidaihua flowers are native to Southeast Asia and are extensively cultivated in Huangyan, Zhejiang, and Suzhou, Jiangsu in China. Their ecological habits are similar to that of Buddha's Hand.
They prefer warm climates and are not tolerant of cold temperatures. In the Jiangnan region, they need to be grown in pots and overwintered indoors. They prefer moist soil with good drainage and cannot tolerate waterlogging.
They can also grow well in environments with slightly lower humidity. Daidaihua flowers require sufficient sunlight, but intense sunlight and temperatures above 35°C during summer can inhibit their growth.
In addition to being ornamental, the flowers of Daidaihua can be used to make tea and dried flowers. The dried flowers retain their fragrance for a long time and can be used for tea and medicinal purposes. The flowers can also be used as decorations for women.
The fruit, when sliced and dried, is known as "Suzhihe" in Chinese herbal medicine, which is commonly used as Daidaihua Zhike. It has the effects of promoting digestion, soothing the liver, and resolving phlegm and diarrhea.
Daidaihua flowers are excellent materials for indoor decoration during winter and can be used as greenery in gardens during summer. The leaves and flowers of Daidaihua can also be used to extract essential oils, making it a versatile economic flower.
