Dianthus

Botanical

What is it

Dianthus refers to a genus of flowering plants including carnations and pinks. Dianthus superbus (qu mai) is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory for urinary tract infections and conditions associated with 'heat'.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Urinary tract symptoms (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use as a diuretic for urinary complaints. Modern clinical evidence is limited.

How it works

D. superbus contains saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. Animal studies suggest mild diuretic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Human clinical evidence is limited.

Dosage

Traditional decoctions use 9 to 15 grams of dried herb per day in TCM.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken in divided doses with water.

1 commercial form

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Dianthus superbus (qu mai) dried herb

Used in Chinese herbal formulas.

Decoction.

Safety

Generally regarded as safe at traditional doses. May cause GI upset and theoretical electrolyte effects with prolonged use due to diuretic action.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy (traditional precaution; possible uterine stimulant) and breastfeeding. Use cautiously in people with kidney disease.

Interactions

Theoretical additive effect with diuretics. No major drug interactions well documented.

Frequently asked questions

Are carnations medicinal?⌄

D. caryophyllus (common carnation) is mainly ornamental. The medicinal species in TCM is D. superbus.

Is it safe?⌄

Traditional short-term use is generally tolerated. Avoid in pregnancy.

References

Dianthus on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Dianthus on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Dianthus (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.