Chinese thimbleberry (Rehmannia elata)

Other names: chinese foxglove, rheumania, rehmania sticky, Rehmania glutinosa

The Chinese thimbleberry (Rehmannia elata), also known as chinese foxglove, rheomania, sticky rehmannia or Rehmannia glutinosa, is a valuable plant with many uses. This herb, native to China and Korea, is characterised by its beautiful flowers, which are absolutely fascinating and can enchant any flower or herb lover. It is a very attractive plant with exceptional medicinal properties. The plant grows to a height of 0.3 to 1 metre and flowers mainly in summer, the flowers are purple, tubular and appear in great abundance.

Chinese thimbleberry has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is mainly used as a raw material for medicines. The roots of the foxglove are stripped of their bark and dried in the sun. This produces the so-called Sheng Di Huang, which is one of the most important ingredients in many herbal mixtures in Chinese medicine. It is also included in various tea blends to improve health and invigorate the body. Its main area of application is the treatment of various disorders related to the kidneys and blood, such as bleeding, inflammation, high blood pressure, anemia or diabetes. It is also used in the treatment of skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and others. The exact dosages and uses of Chinese thimbleberry should always be consulted with a professional, as the plant can have side effects if not used correctly.