Balloon Flower

Balloon Flower

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Latin name: Platycodon grandiflorum
Other names: Chinese Bell-Flower, Japanese Bell-Flower, Jie-Geng

A Remedy For
Balloon Flower is used in traditional Chinese medicine for respiratory ailments such as cough, bronchitis, sore throat, and tonsillitis. Although it is known for its ability to loosen phlegm, its effectiveness has not yet been proven through formal clinical trials.

What It Is; Why It Works
This herb draws its name from the unopened buds of its lovely blue blossoms, which resemble small balloons. Its natural habitat is northern Asia, where the root is used medicinally, usually in combination with other herbs. In the traditional Chinese system, Balloon Flower is used primarily as an expectorant.
Laboratory research shows that Balloon Flower contains compounds with a variety of beneficial effects that may prove useful in modern medicine. In lab animals, it has the ability to lower blood sugar levels and digestive secretions, as well as fat and cholesterol levels. In addition, Balloon Flower has shown immune enhancing and antibacterial activity, and is effective against a particular type of flatworm caused by eating raw or undercooked fish.

Avoid If...
Do not take Balloon Flower if you have tuberculosis or a stomach ulcer.

Special Cautions
At customary dosage levels, Balloon Flower poses no known risks.

Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.

Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
No harmful effects are known.

How To Prepare
Manufacturers of Chinese herbal products usually make a powder of Balloon Flower's dried root, then combine it with other herbs in tablet and capsule form. A liquid extract is also available.

Typical Dosage
A usual dosage is 3 to 9 grams a day, taken in several small doses. Dosage guidelines vary widely, so be sure to follow the package directions and read the label carefully for other ingredients.

Overdosage
No information on overdosage is available.