Impatiens (impatiens glandulifera)
Synopsis of impatiens
Impatiens is a genus of flowering plants known for their colorful blooms and rapid seed dispersal, with Impatiens balsamina (garden balsam) and Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan balsam) being the most recognized medicinal species. Native to Asia and North America, impatiens has been used traditionally for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and soothing properties, especially in skin conditions. The plant contains flavonoids, tannins, and mucilage, along with compounds like 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, which contribute to its antipruritic and antimicrobial actions.
In herbal applications, impatiens is primarily used topically to relieve itching, rashes, poison ivy, insect bites, and minor wounds. It is often included in natural poison ivy salves or washes, where it helps calm allergic dermatitis and histamine responses. When used fresh or in poultice form, the plant soothes irritated skin and helps prevent secondary infections due to its mild antimicrobial activity.
In Bach Flower Remedies, Impatiens is one of the original 38 remedies, symbolizing the emotional state of impatience, irritability, and mental tension. It is used in flower essence therapy to promote calm, patience, and emotional ease, especially for those who feel mentally rushed or frustrated by delays.
Historical Use
Traditional use of impatiens varies by region. In Chinese folk medicine, the seeds of Impatiens balsamina (known as Tou Gua Zi) were used to promote blood circulation and resolve inflammation, while the leaves and flowers were applied externally to treat nail fungus, abscesses, and rashes.
In Native American herbalism, certain impatiens species were used for poison ivy relief, either by applying crushed fresh stems directly to the skin or making a wash from the plant. This use has persisted into modern natural medicine and continues to be recommended for contact dermatitis caused by Toxicodendron species.
Today, impatiens is not widely used in mainstream Western herbalism beyond topical applications for skin irritation, but it remains a valued remedy in homeopathy, flower essence therapy, and traditional dermatological herbalism, particularly for its gentle, soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects on sensitive or allergic skin.
Impatiens is used for these health conditions
Abrasions (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Insect Repellant (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
