# Pu Huang (Typha angustifolia pollen)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/pu-huang-typha-angustifolia-pollen
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Cattail pollen, Narrow-leaf cattail pollen, Bulrush pollen, Reedmace pollen, Typha pollen, Chinese cattail pollen, Pollen Typhae, Lesser reedmace pollen, Water sausage pollen

## Overview

Pu Huang (Typha angustifolia pollen) contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that provide hemostatic effects by promoting platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction. The pollen regulates uterine smooth muscle contractions through [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) modulation, making it effective for menstrual disorders and bleeding control.

## Health Benefits

- Pu Huang supports menstrual health by regulating blood flow and reducing menstrual pain. It acts on uterine muscles to ease cramps. - It has hemostatic properties, helping to stop bleeding by promoting platelet aggregation. - The pollen enhances kidney function, crucial for detoxification and waste elimination. - It acts as an [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), reducing swelling and pain in various conditions. - Pu Huang boosts [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by improving blood circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. - It supports respiratory health by soothing the airways and reducing symptoms of asthma. - The herb aids in [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) by promoting a healthy gut flora balance.

## Mechanism of Action

Pu Huang's flavonoids and isorhamnetin derivatives enhance platelet aggregation through activation of the coagulation cascade and increased thromboxane A2 production. The pollen's phenolic compounds modulate [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) E2 and F2α pathways, regulating uterine smooth muscle contractions. Its hemostatic action involves vasoconstriction through calcium channel modulation and enhanced fibrin formation.

## Clinical Summary

Traditional use studies suggest Pu Huang reduces menstrual bleeding duration by 2-3 days in small observational trials of 30-50 women. Animal studies demonstrate 40-60% reduction in bleeding time compared to controls, with platelet aggregation increased by 25-35%. Limited human clinical trials show promise for dysmenorrhea relief, but large-scale randomized controlled trials are lacking. Current evidence is primarily based on traditional medicine practices and preliminary research.

## Nutritional Profile

Pu Huang (Typha angustifolia pollen) is a bioactive-rich medicinal pollen with the following documented composition: Flavonoids constitute a major bioactive fraction, including isorhamnetin (approximately 0.1–0.5% dry weight), quercetin, kaempferol, and typhasterol glycosides, which contribute to its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and hemostatic actions. Polysaccharides are present at approximately 10–20% dry weight, supporting platelet aggregation activity. Sterols including β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and campesterol are present at roughly 0.2–0.8% dry weight, contributing to membrane-stabilizing and anti-inflammatory effects. Fatty acids include palmitic acid (C16:0), linoleic acid (C18:2), and linolenic acid (C18:3), comprising approximately 3–7% of dry weight total lipids. Protein content ranges from approximately 7–12% dry weight, containing essential amino acids including arginine, lysine, and proline. Carbohydrates (non-polysaccharide) account for approximately 25–35% dry weight, primarily sporopollenin in the pollen wall matrix. Minerals detected include potassium (~400–600 mg/100g), calcium (~100–200 mg/100g), magnesium (~80–150 mg/100g), iron (~5–15 mg/100g), and zinc (~2–5 mg/100g). Vitamin content includes small amounts of vitamin C (~10–30 mg/100g) and B-complex vitamins including thiamine and riboflavin at trace levels (<1 mg/100g). Phenolic acids such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid derivatives are present at approximately 0.05–0.2% dry weight. Bioavailability note: The hard sporopollenin outer wall of the pollen grain can limit absorption of internal nutrients; traditional preparation methods including frying (chao) or water decoction partially disrupt this barrier, enhancing bioavailability of flavonoids and polysaccharides by an estimated 20–40% compared to raw pollen.

## Dosage & Preparation

The typical dosage of Pu Huang is 3-9 grams per day, often used in decoction or powder form. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Pu Huang is generally well-tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals. It can potentially interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin due to its hemostatic properties, requiring medical supervision. Pregnant women should avoid use as it may stimulate uterine contractions and affect pregnancy outcomes. Individuals with bleeding disorders should consult healthcare providers before use due to its blood-clotting effects.

## Scientific Research

Limited scientific studies exist on Pu Huang, but it is traditionally believed to have hemostatic and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties. More research is needed to confirm these effects.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Pu Huang has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, primarily for its hemostatic properties and ability to alleviate pain. It is also used in other Asian traditional medicine systems.

## Synergistic Combinations

Di Yu, San Qi, Dang Gui, E Jiao

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of Pu Huang for menstrual bleeding?

Traditional Chinese medicine typically uses 3-10 grams of Pu Huang powder daily, divided into 2-3 doses. However, standardized dosing guidelines are not established, and consultation with a qualified practitioner is recommended for proper dosing.

### Can Pu Huang be taken with birth control pills?

Pu Huang may interact with hormonal contraceptives due to its effects on menstrual regulation and hormone pathways. Women taking birth control should consult their healthcare provider before using Pu Huang to avoid potential interactions or reduced contraceptive effectiveness.

### How long does it take for Pu Huang to show effects on bleeding?

Traditional reports suggest Pu Huang's hemostatic effects may begin within 24-48 hours for acute bleeding. For menstrual regulation, effects typically develop over 1-2 menstrual cycles with consistent use, though individual responses vary significantly.

### Is Pu Huang safe for people with high blood pressure?

Pu Huang's vasoconstrictive properties may potentially affect blood pressure regulation. Individuals with hypertension should use caution and monitor blood pressure closely, as the herb's effects on vascular function could theoretically influence cardiovascular health.

### What's the difference between raw and processed Pu Huang?

Raw Pu Huang (Sheng Pu Huang) has stronger hemostatic properties and is used for active bleeding. Charred Pu Huang (Pu Huang Tan) has enhanced astringent properties and is traditionally preferred for chronic bleeding conditions and menstrual irregularities.

### Is Pu Huang safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Pu Huang should be avoided during pregnancy as its hemostatic and uterine-stimulating properties may affect fetal development or increase miscarriage risk. Similarly, it is not recommended during breastfeeding due to limited safety data on infant exposure through breast milk. Consult with a healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing.

### Does Pu Huang interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin?

Pu Huang has hemostatic properties that promote platelet aggregation and blood clotting, which may counteract or reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. Concurrent use with warfarin, aspirin, or similar blood thinners could create dangerous interactions and should only occur under medical supervision. Always inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood-thinning medications before using Pu Huang.

### Who benefits most from taking Pu Huang supplements?

Pu Huang is most beneficial for individuals experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, or irregular menstrual cycles who seek natural regulation without synthetic hormones. It may also benefit those with kidney function concerns or inflammatory conditions, as it supports detoxification and has anti-inflammatory properties. However, individuals with clotting disorders, on anticoagulants, or with certain cardiovascular conditions should avoid use without professional guidance.

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