Balloon Flower is also known as: Jie Geng, Platycodon grandiflorum, Campanulaceae
In Korea, this flower is mentioned in traditional folk song.
The flower is one of Japan's traditional seven flowers of autumn.
Natural locations for Balloon Flower: Europe And Asia - Japan
In herbal medicine, the root is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. It is also used for the treatment of colds and coughs.
Balloon Flower is used in traditional Chinese formulas for its expectorant qualities to dilate the bronchi. It reportedly increases bronchial secretions.
Health benefits of Balloon flower root:
In Korea the plant is known as doraji and its root, either dried or fresh, is a popular ingredient in salads and traditional cuisine.
However, doraji (Chinese bellflower) should not be confused with Korean bellflower. Chinese bellflower is used in traditional Chinese medicine.
They are thought to work by dilating the bronchial vessels; a constituent called platycodigenin thins and helps eliminate phlegm.
Recent studies found that the root killed a liver fluke (internal parasite) and lowered “bad” and raised “good” cholesterol in rats.
An ingredient of several Japanese herbal extracts, the root may be anti-inflammatory.
A saponin in the root increases pancreatic secretion through the release of gastrointestinal hormones.
Balloon flower root is a well-known anti-inflammatory herb in Chinese medicine.
It may help in health conditions such as--
Coughs and wheezing with phlegm. Balloon flower reduces phlegm and as an expectorant,
it is used to open up the lungs when they are congested and help the body get rid of pus due to a lung abscess.
Common cold, flu, bronchitis, a sore throat, and may help pulmonary tuberculosis.
Tootache
fatigue
Balloon flower root is often prescribed for loss of voice.
Balloon flower root can be found in Chinese herbalists and medical practitioners.
Opens up and disseminates lunq qi and expels phlegmPromotes the drainage of pus in the lung or throat
Benefits the throat
Directs the effect of other herbs to the upper regions of the body
Caution & Contradictions:
Hemoptysis
Counteracts with Radix Gentianae Longdancao (Long Dan Cao) and Arillus Euphoriae Longanae
