Elsholtzia ciliata, also known as Bái Yù Lí in Chinese, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Asia, particularly regions like China, Korea, Japan, and India. This plant is valued for its medicinal properties and its use in traditional medicine across various cultures.
Elsholtzia ciliata is an herbaceous plant that can grow to a height of 30 to 90 centimeters. It features opposite lanceolate to ovate leaves with toothed margins and a slightly velvety texture. The leaves are aromatic when crushed, emitting a fresh, minty scent.
Read Also: 14 Medicinal Health Benefits of Ellettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom)
The Medicinal Health Benefits of Elsholtzia Ciliata (Bai Yu Li)
Here are 10 medicinal health benefits of Elsholtzia ciliata:
1. Digestive Aid: Elsholtzia ciliata has been traditionally used to alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and stomach discomfort. Its aromatic properties may help stimulate digestion and soothe the digestive tract.Drinking an infusion of Elsholtzia ciliata leaves after a heavy meal to ease feelings of fullness and support digestion.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: This plant contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties, which might help reduce mild inflammation and associated discomfort. Applying a poultice of crushed Elsholtzia ciliata leaves to soothe minor skin irritations and redness.
3. Respiratory Support: Traditional use suggests that Elsholtzia ciliata could be useful for managing mild respiratory issues like coughs and congestion due to its cooling and aromatic qualities. Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water infused with Elsholtzia ciliata leaves to ease nasal congestion.
4. Fever Reduction: It has been utilized in traditional medicine as a natural antipyretic agent to help lower fever. Preparing a tea from Elsholtzia ciliata leaves and drinking it lukewarm to help reduce a mild fever.
5. Stress Relief: The aromatic compounds in the plant may contribute to relaxation and stress relief. Enjoying a cup of Elsholtzia ciliata tea to unwind after a long day and promote a sense of calm.
6. Blood Circulation Enhancement: Some traditional systems suggest that Elsholtzia ciliata could improve blood circulation, potentially benefiting overall cardiovascular health. Consuming Elsholtzia ciliata as part of a balanced diet to support circulatory well-being.
7. Antioxidant Properties: The presence of flavonoids and other antioxidants in the plant may help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress. Regularly incorporating Elsholtzia ciliata into your diet to enhance your antioxidant intake.
8. Mild Pain Relief: Its anti-inflammatory and aromatic components might offer mild pain relief for headaches or minor muscle aches. Massaging a diluted essential oil blend containing Elsholtzia ciliata onto temples for headache relief.
9. Antimicrobial Potential: Certain compounds found in Elsholtzia ciliata could have antimicrobial properties, which may contribute to managing minor infections. Gargling with a warm Elsholtzia ciliata infusion to soothe a sore throat.
10. Mood Upliftment: The pleasant aroma of Elsholtzia ciliata may have mood-enhancing effects, potentially helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety or low spirits. Diffusing Elsholtzia ciliata essential oil in your living space to create a positive atmosphere.
Read Also: 15 Medicinal Health Benefits of Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar Periwinkle)
The Methods of Usage to Achieve the Provided Health Benefits of Elsholtzia Ciliata (Bai Yu Li)
Here are five detailed methods of using Elsholtzia ciliata to achieve its medicinal health benefits:
1. Digestive Aid – Infusion: Boil water and pour it over a handful of dried Elsholtzia ciliata leaves in a cup. Cover and steep for about 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink the infused liquid. The warm infusion can help stimulate digestion, alleviate indigestion, and reduce bloating. After a heavy meal, prepare and consume the Elsholtzia ciliata infusion to aid digestion.
2. Respiratory Support – Steam Inhalation: Boil a pot of water and add a handful of fresh or dried Elsholtzia ciliata leaves. Place your face over the pot, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam. Inhale the steam for about 5-10 minutes.
Inhaling the steam can help open up congested airways, ease coughs, and provide relief from mild respiratory discomfort. Use steam inhalation with Elsholtzia ciliata when experiencing nasal congestion or a mild cough.
3. Fever Reduction – Herbal Tea: Boil water and add dried Elsholtzia ciliata leaves. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. Strain and allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking. The tea’s antipyretic properties may help reduce fever, promote sweating, and support the body’s natural cooling mechanisms. Sip on Elsholtzia ciliata tea when experiencing a mild fever to aid in temperature reduction.
4. Topical Pain Relief – Compress: Crush fresh Elsholtzia ciliata leaves and wrap them in a clean cloth. Apply the cloth to the affected area and secure it in place. The crushed leaves can provide localized relief for minor pain, inflammation, or discomfort. Apply an Elsholtzia ciliata leaf compress to a sore muscle or joint for soothing relief.
5. Aromatherapy for Stress Relief – Diffusion: Use an essential oil diffuser to disperse Elsholtzia ciliata essential oil into the air. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and usage. The aromatic compounds can create a calming atmosphere, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. Diffuse Elsholtzia ciliata essential oil in your home or workspace to create a peaceful environment.
The Side Effects of Using Elsholtzia Ciliata Medicinal Plant
Here are some possible side effects and considerations:
1. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family, which includes Elsholtzia ciliata. Allergic reactions could include skin irritation, itching, redness, or respiratory symptoms like sneezing and congestion.
2. Skin Sensitivity: Applying Elsholtzia ciliata directly to the skin, especially in its concentrated form like essential oil, could cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. It’s advisable to perform a patch test before using it extensively on the skin.
3. Gastrointestinal Upset: In some cases, excessive consumption of Elsholtzia ciliata, especially in the form of tea or infusion, could lead to gastrointestinal upset, including nausea or stomach discomfort.
4. Drug Interactions: If you’re taking medications, especially those that affect blood clotting, blood pressure or liver function, consult a healthcare professional before using Elsholtzia ciliata medicinally. It may interact with certain medications.
5. Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before using Elsholtzia ciliata for medicinal purposes. Limited information is available about its safety during these periods.
6. Drowsiness: Some individuals might experience mild drowsiness or sedation when using Elsholtzia ciliata, especially in larger quantities. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, if you feel drowsy.
7. Low Blood Pressure: Elsholtzia ciliata has been suggested to have potential hypotensive effects, meaning it might lower blood pressure. Individuals with already low blood pressure should be cautious and monitor their blood pressure levels.
8. Digestive Discomfort: While Elsholtzia ciliata is traditionally used for digestive support, excessive consumption might lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea in some individuals.
Read Also: Here are 5 things that happen when you eat too much honey
