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Photo of Magnolia Flower Bud

Magnolia Flower Bud

辛夷 · Xīn Yí

Opens blocked nasal passages and clears head congestion

Properties

WarmingWarming botanicalPungent

What it does

A blocked, stuffy nose that will not clear is what magnolia flower bud targets. The buds are picked before they open, while the acrid volatile oils are strongest. Entering the Lung and Stomach channels, it disperses wind-cold, opens the nose, and lifts the clear yang of the Stomach. It is used whether congestion runs cold or hot, and it partners xanthium in Xanthium Powder.

Safety

  • Avoid during pregnancy. Bensky Materia Medica notes this herb may stimulate the uterus.
  • Not for long-term use. Acrid herbs that disperse upward can injure qi if used continuously beyond a few weeks.
  • Filter the decoction well before drinking. The hairy floral envelope can enter the Lungs and cause cough if ingested.
  • Contraindicated for nasal congestion from qi deficiency, or headache from blood deficiency with accumulated fire.
  • Contraindicated in cases of fire from yin deficiency.
  • Rare allergic reactions are reported: itching, nausea, anxiety, chest discomfort. Stop use if they appear.
  • Strongly constricts blood vessels in the nose, so use care if your nasal tissue is thin or atrophied.
  • Overdose can cause dizziness, thirst, and a dry nose. Stay within the stated dose.
  • AHPA Safety Class 2b: not for use in pregnancy without practitioner supervision.

How to take it

Drink

Tie 3–9g in a cheesecloth bag before decocting, since the bud hairs irritate the throat and straining afterwards does not catch them. Decoct in 3 cups for 20 minutes. Drink warm, up to twice daily.

Simmer 3g magnolia flower bud with 6g xanthium fruit for acute sinus congestion with frontal headache

Where it comes from

Magnolia flower bud appears in the Divine Husbandman's Classic of the Materia Medica, one of TCM's foundational texts. Three magnolia species are used (Magnolia biondii, Magnolia denudata, and Magnolia sprengeri), and the buds are harvested before they open in early spring. Classical texts note that the breath from the nose communicates with heaven, and the acrid warmth of this bud unblocks that connection. It is still among China's most prescribed herbs for chronic rhinitis.