Gardenia Fruit Uses

Bladder Infection Treatment

• Gardenia fruit may be an effective herbal treatment for bladder infections, as it it is said to help rid the body of inflammation, according to the "Advanced Textbook on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology." The supplement may also have an overall mild cleansing nature, which helps to eliminate toxins from the organs. Gardenia fruit may work to relieve the burning or itching that comes with urination in patients suffering from bladder infections, and boost the immune system, so subsequent infections don't occur, according to "Naturopathy Digest." Herbal supplements are often coupled with ingredients like licorice root, an herb that may work to settle the stomach.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

• ScienceDaily asserts that gardenia fruit contains an ingredient that could reduce the damage that type 2 diabetes does on the pancreas. Genipin, a substance in gardenia fruit that was already known for its ability to link proteins, may also be the substance that blocks the uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2). Individuals with high levels of UCP2 have a great chance of insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Genipin, which patients can take in supplement form, can also lower glucose levels in the pancreatic tissue, reducing the onset of obesity.

Removes Bodily Toxins

• Gardenia root can clean out toxins lodged in the liver, stomach and gallbladder, and helps the body to excrete bile, according to the website for the Institute for Traditional Medicine. The site also asserts that the herb cools the blood to make it easier for toxic substances to leave the body, and reduces swelling and pain, which is why it may be beneficial to take gardenia root when suffering from a cold or the flu. The Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine website asserts that gardenia root could serve as an herbal laxative, but the herb may be harsh on the stomach.

Treatment for Women's Health Issues

• Gardenia fruit is also used in Chinese medicine to treat women's health concerns such as PMS, cramps, irregular menstrual bleeding, and breast soreness and tenderness. In some herbal formulas, gardenia fruit is combined with peony and bupleurum to alleviate the headaches and mild depression that some women experience during PMS. The herb may also enhance blood circulation, so cramps are not as severe during the menstrual cycle, according to the Oshims website. The site also asserts that gardenia fruit reduces fever, as some women may experience cold and flu-like symptoms during their period.