Bistorta vivipra, commonly known as alpine bistort, is a species of flowering plant within the dock, knotweed and buckwheat family Polygonaceae. It is present throughout the high Arctic, and its habitat extends through Europe, North America, and temperate and tropical Asia. This continues across high mountainous areas such as the Alps, Carpathians, Pyrenees, Caucasus, and the Tibetan Plateau.
Bistorta vivipara is an herbaceous perennial. It grows between 5 to 15 centimetres in height. The rootstock is thick and rhizomatous. An unbranched, hairless stem extends above the ground where it grows. The leaves are hairless on the upper surfaces, with greyish-green hair below. Both long stemmed basal and linear stemless leaves occur on the plant. The upper flowers are white or pink and minute in scale. The lower area of the spike features bulbils instead of flowers. Flowers rarely produce viable seeds. Reproduction occurs by the bulbils: small bulb-like structures that develop in the axils of the leaves. These may develop into new plants.
These edible bulbils are rich in starch. They are a preferred food for rock ptarmigans (Lagopus mutus) and reindeer. Alpine bistort flowers in June and July.
Bistorta vivipara grows in many different terrains, frequently in abundance. Frequent habitats include moist short grassland and nutrient-rich fens.
Arrowleaf Sida (Sida rhombifolia):
Sida rhombifolia is commonly known as arrowleaf sida, rhombus-leaved sida, Paddy's lucerne, jelly leaf, and kurumthotti in Ayurvedic medicine. It is a medicinally significant plant.
Stems are raised or sprawling and branched. The species grows 50 to 120 centimetres in height. The lower sections are often woody. Dark green, narrow rhombic leaves alternate along the stem. Each leaf is 4 to 8 centimetres in length, and feature petioles that are less than a third of the leaves' length. Leaves are less vibrant underneath, and have short, greyish hairs. The top edges (apex) of the leaves have toothed or serrated margins while the remainder of the leaves are entirely smooth. The petioles feature small spiny stipules at the bases.
Flowers appear from flower stalks that occur from between the stems and leaf petioles. Flowers consist of five petals that are 4 to 8 millimetres long. Colouration is creamy to orange-yellow and may be reddish in the center. There are five overlapping petals that are asymmetric, with a long lobe on each end. These create a helical pattern in the flower. The stamens condense in a short column. Fruit is a ribbed capsule which breaks up into 8 to 10 segments. The plant blooms throughout the year.
Sida rhombifolia is a widely distributed tropical and subtropical weed: it can be found in savannahs, roadsides, thick scrub, hillsides, and swampy woodlands. It is usually confined to waste ground, but can be competitive in pasture as it is often ignored by livestock.
The plant is emollient. It can be used for ulcers, high fevers and as an antidiarrheal. It is beneficial against heart conditions such as pulmonary catarrh and ovarian diseases. The root is used as an anticrotalic. A serum may be prepared to lessen the effects of venom of rattlesnakes and black widow spiders.
Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale):
Colchicum autumnale is commonly known as autumn crocus, meadow saffron, or naked ladies. It is a toxic spring and autumn plant that resembles the true crocuses. It is a member of the plant family Colchicaceae, separate from true crocuses, which belong to the family Iridaceae. The common name "naked ladies" is attributed as the flowers emerge from the ground long before leaves appear. Despite the vernacular name of "meadow saffron", this plant is not the source of culinary saffron. Saffron is obtained from the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus). That plant is also called "autumn crocus".
Colchicum autumnale is an herbaceous perennial that has leaves up to 25 centimetres long. The flowers are solitary and 4–7 centimetres across. Six tepals stamens with orange anthers and three white styles are typical.
Colchicum autumnale is the only species of the Colchicaceae family endemic to Great Britain and Ireland. It occurs across mainland Europe from Portugal to Ukraine. It may be naturalised in Sweden, Russia, and New Zealand.
The bulb-like corms of Colchicum autumnale contain colchicine. It is a useful drug, but with a narrow therapeutic index. Colchicine is approved in many countries for the treatment of gout and familial Mediterranean fever. Colchicine is used in plant breeding to produce polyploid strains.
Polyploidy involves an organism possessing more than two complete sets of chromosomes, and is linked to several evolutionary advantages, such as heterosis, gene redundancy, and asexual reproduction.
Colchicum plants are deadly due to inherent colchicine content. These plants have been mistaken by foragers for wild garlic (Allium ursinum), which Colchicum autumnale vaguely resembles. The symptoms of colchicine poisoning are similar to those of arsenic. No antidote is known.
The leaves and fruit of autumn crocus contain the highest level of toxins. All parts of the plant are however poisonous.
Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata):
Elaeagnus umbellata, known as Japanese silverberry, umbellata oleaster, autumn olive, autumn elaeagnus, or spreading oleaster, is endemic to eastern Asia. It natively ranges from the Himalayas to Japan, but has become introduced to Europe and North America. It is a hardy, aggressive invasive species that can be difficult to remove once established.
The species grows as a deciduous shrub or small tree. It may reach up to 3.5 metres or 11 feet in height. It has a dense crown and commonly grows sharp thorns in the shape of spur branches. The flowers occur in clusters of 1 to 7 white to yellow, four-lobed structures that are 8 to 9 millimetres in length and 7 millimetres in diameter.
The leaves alternate along the branches. These are 4 to 10 centimetres long and 2 to 4 centimetres wide, and feature wavy edges. Silvery scales minutely cover the new leaves when these emerge early in the spring. The leaves become more verdant on the upper surface as the scales disappear in the summer. The underside of the leaves are more densely covered in the scales. This differs from the Elaeagnus angustifolia, which features silver-scaled leaves until the fall when they are shed.
The fruits that result from the flowers are small round drupes, 0.65 to 0.85 centimetres in diameter. When unripe, the fruit is silvery-scaled and yellow. This ripens to a red colour, with faint silver or brown accents. The ripe fruits are edible, and reputedly sweet or tart in flavour. These are 3 to 9 millimetres in length or 5 millimetres in diameter. 137 milligrams is a typical weight. Berries can be eaten fresh or processed into jam, condiments, or flavouring. Due to the carotenoids present, and high lycopene content, the berries can be used as a substitute for tomato.
Although it is not considered invasive in its endemic ranges, it has become a problem elsewhere because of its vigorous growth habits. As it fixes atmospheric nitrogen in its roots, the species may grow competitively in infertile soils. It can increase available nitrogen in soils, which benefits nearby plants that depend on nitrogen. It can increase yields of adjacent fruit trees up to 10 percent if grown in orchards. Its ability to alter soils can be deleterious for local plant populations. Compounded with the capacity to spread, this can be ruinous if not monitored.
Basil Thyme (Clinopodium acinos):
Clinopodium acinos is a flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, or mint, deadnettle, and sage taxon. Common names include basil thyme and spring savoury.
The species is perennial. Individual plants typically grow about 20 centimetres in height, and 30 centimetres in width. The flowers grow on stalks that feature leaves and bracts. The leaves are oval with pointed ends and lack ridges, but may feature hairs along the edges. The flowers are trumpet-shaped. Light purple petals, sometimes elongated, exist at the end of the green floral base. A dense amount of leaved stalks can grow from a single plant, allowing for ground cover.
It typically prefers to grow in strong sunlight. The scent is faintly reminiscent of thyme, but milder and more pleasant. This has caused one of its common names.
Clinopodium acinos is edible. It can be used raw in salads, as a flavouring, or in cooking. The flowering tops specifically can be infused into an extract for flavouring, as a tea, or raw in salads and similar dishes. As it is not as aromatic as thyme, it may not be a good substitute for the other herb.
It was once widely used in archaic history. It is known to be diuretic, odontalgic, rubefacient, stomachic or tonic in activity. If the essential oil is applied externally, it can be an adequate rubefacient. The extract may also relieve pain as an anodyne, specifically if added to decayed teeth, and is known to strengthen and calm nerves.
The plants were historically collected in the summer, when the sun provides the most energy and nutrients for the species, and used throughout the year once dried.
Clinopodium acinos is known to be a non-exclusive food plant for larvae of the moth Coleophora tricolor, or basil-thyme case-bearer moth.
Bird Cherry (Prunus padus):
Prunus padus, known as bird cherry, hackberry, or Mayday tree, is a flowering large shrub or small tree in the family Rosaceae, or rose taxonomy. It has a rounded crown, and aromatic white flowers that grow from hanging clustered racemes. The species can reach up to 12 metres in height. It is a species of flowering cherry and produces an astringent fruit that is habitually eaten by birds, but has also been used by people as a food source in baking.
The species is endemic to Europe and Asia. It is grown elsewhere as an ornamental shrub or tree. In its endemic range, which extends from the Pyrenees and Alps to Iberia and Italy, aside from Africa, the Balkan Mountains, Steppe, Caucasus, Siberia, Russia, Korea, China, and Japan, is scattered and often has secluded populations.
It was noted by ancient Greek authors, who travelled to the Steppe or related terrain, to have been used by Mongolian persons as a food source. In Russian or Siberian terrain, the berries are used as a baking ingredient in traditional items. They are ground into a flour or minced and made into a jam. Although the tannin content in the berries causes them to be astringent, this is offset by cooking processes. However, the glycosides prulaurasin and amygdalin are present in some parts of Prunus padus, including the bark, leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. These compounds can be poisonous to some mammals. Although bitterness can indicate concentrations of toxins, it is better to only use this species in very small amounts, if at all.
Two subspecies comprise the main taxonomy. The European bird cherry and the Asian bird cherry are endemic to Europe and Asia, and eastern Asia respectively. When grown in North America, the species is frequently attacked by black knot fungus.
The term 'Mayday' originated from the 'May Day' festival, which occurs in May or early June, and is unrelated to the international distress signal. The tree was considered to be medicinal in the Middle Ages. The bark was also placed near entry doors to ward off the plague.
The bark is mildly anodyne, diuretic, febrifuge and sedative in activity. The fruit contains polyphenols with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
The leaves can be used to make a green dye. The bark can be used to make a dark grey to dark green dye.
Bistort (Bistorta officinalis):
Bistorta officinalis, commonly known as bistort, common bistort, European bistort, meadow bistort, snakeroot, snake-root, snakeweed, and Easter-ledges, is a species of flowering plant within the dock, knotweed and buckwheat family Polygonaceae. It is endemic to Europe and western to northern Asia.
Bistorta officinalis is an herbaceous perennial. It grows from 20 to 80 centimetres in height to a width of 90 centimetres. The foliage is typically basal, the leaves hairless. The inflorescence is a spike, from which racemes minutely extend in club-like spikes. Rose-pink flowers occur at the ends of these racemes. The fruit from these flowers is a glossy black nut.
Flowering occurs in June and July. Bistort grows in moist soils. In dry conditions the plant goes dormant. It loses its foliage until provided with sufficient moisture.
The roots and leaves are traditionally used to staunch wounds. The chemical composition within the root system and foliage highly comprises tannic and gallic acids. A medicinal astringent can be further extracted from the root system.
Black Cardamom (Amomum subulatum):
Amomum subulatum is a perennial herbaceous species in the Zingiberaceae taxon, or ginger family of plants. It is similar in use to green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), but rather than a focus on sweet recipes, savoury dishes instead include it as an ingredient. The seed pod is dried over an open fire, separate from the means used to dry green cardamom. This gives it a smoky profile and aroma.
The two species are visually similar in regard to the plants the pods occur from. The black cardamom species however has larger seed pods than the green cardamom species.
There are two recorded, distinct subspecies of black cardamom: Amomum subulatum and Amomum tsao-ko. The pods of Amomum subulatum are used primarily in the culture of India and certain regions of Pakistan. It is the smaller of the two subspecies. The larger pods of Amomum tsao-ko (Chinese: 草果; pinyin: cǎoguǒ; Vietnamese: thảo quả) are used in Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine; in China, particularly that of Sichuan province.
Black cardamom is medicinal. It is traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for stomach disorders, malaria (in conjunction with the spice cumin), dysentery, and as an antivenin to counter snake and spider bites. A decoctions of the rhizomes can be used as a means to alleviate jaundice.
The moth species Ancistroides folus, Eupterote cardamomi, and Artona chorista, and the thrip species Sciothrips cardamomi are potential pest species for black cardamom, aside from lacewings, grasshoppers, and aphids. The butterfly species Jamides alecto is also a risk.
Borage (Borago officinalis):
Borago officinalis is an annual herb of the flowering plant family Boraginaceae. It is alternatively known as starflower in English.
It is a plant endemic to the Mediterranean region and naturalised in many other locations. Much of Europe features this plant cultivated within gardens, and as a wild variant. The leaves and flowers are edible, which is how it is often used by those who grow it. Commercially, borage seed oil is extracted from the seeds and sold.
Although edible, the leaves of the plant feature compounds which can be hepatotoxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic: pyrrolizidine alkaloids. High doses of the plant, or a long duration of use can damage the liver or lungs or cause cancer.
The seed oils should not be consumed due to concentrations of the compounds. Although processing can remove the toxins, it is not advisable. Moderation and caution is best exercised with borago officinalis.
The species grows between 60 to 100 centimetres in height. Blue, pink, or white star-shaped flowers are produced from the plant. The flowers are complete and bisexual: these feature both stamens and carpels. Multiple flowers occur from scorpioid cymes, suggesting considerable intraplant pollination.
The entire plant is visibly hairy and bristly. The leaves alternate along the stems and are simple in shape and often wavy along the edges. These are typically from 5 centimetres to 15 centimetres long, the lower leaves larger than the newer ones.
Borage has an indeterminate growth habit. This may lead to prolific spreading if not restricted.
Traditional uses are primarily for medicinal and culinary purposes. Modernly, the seed oil is instead prioritised. When the leaves and flowers are used fresh in salads, soups, or as garnish, these have a reputedly cucumber-like taste.
The plant shows potential to lower inflammation, specifically that of rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used to reduce asthma symptoms and alleviate skin disorders such as atopic eczema and atopic dermatitis. It is used as an alternative medicine to treat adrenal insufficiency, a hormone disorder. Due to supporting the production of cortisol, chronic stress and anxiety may be offset by related use of borage, which can cause it to work as a sedative.
Camelina (Camelina sativa):
Camelina sativa is a summer or winter annual plant. It is endemic to Europe and central Asia. Its common names include camelina, gold-of-pleasure, or false flax.
It has branching stems that become woody with maturity. The leaves attached to the branches alternate in pattern, and are lanceolate with a length of 2 to 8 centimetres and a width of 2 to 10 millimetres. The leaves and stems at times feature hairs. It can grow to a height of 30 to 120 centimetres.
Flowering occurs between June and July. The flowers are abundant, and pale yellow in colour, with four petals per blossom. The flowers produce a pear-shaped seed with a tapered edge. The seeds are brown or orange in colour. They are typically at a length of 2 to 3 millimetres. One plant may produce over a thousand seeds.
Camelina sativa has historic use as an oilseed plant. Its high fat content allowed it to be a sufficient source of oil for lamps. It was traditionally grown as a crop for vegetable oil and as an animal feed, and remains a staple in various regions.
It is edible, and evidently features an almond-like flavour and aroma.
Chinese Astilbe (Astilbe chinensis):
Astilbe chinensis, known as false goat's beard, tall false-buck's-beard, and Chinese astilbe, is a plant in the Saxifragaceae or saxifrage family. It is endemic to China, Korea, Russia, and Japan, but grows elsewhere as an introduced species.
It is a perennial flowering plant that grows in shade, near streams and rivers, and near the edges of damp broadleaf forests. It is grown in gardens, typically for ornamental use.
The plant grows in clusters. It can reach a height of 45 to 90 centimetres. The leaves are typical basal and compound, with sharp, and frequently biserrated, elliptical or oval leaflets. Hairs may exist on the leaflets. The leaves resemble ferns in number, due to a layering behaviour. The flowers are minute, and form multi-branched inflorescences. The stems are thin, erect, or arching.
The species is herbivore and pathogen resistant. Droughts and high temperatures can however be problematic. It requires the soil it grows in to remain damp in order to thrive.
The species is nontoxic and medicinal, having traditional use in Korean medicine. It can be made into a tea. The medicinal properties ascribed to it include treatments for inflammation, cancer, chronic bronchitis, arthralgia, pain, and headache.
Clinical testing indicated that it inhibited LPS or TG-induced inflammation by blocking the NF-κB signaling pathway in macrophages, suggesting use in treatments for inflammatory diseases and inflammatory infiltrate.
Coliseum Ivy (Cymbalaria muralis):
Cymbalaria muralis is a flowering vine in the Plantaginaceae family. It has been ascribed different common names according to its geographical location and growth habits, having been spread from one location. The distribution of stones and statues that originated in the Mediterranean to other architecture bolstered its spread. Ivy-leaved toadflax, coliseum ivy, Kenilworth ivy, Oxford ivy, mother of thousands, wandering sailor, ivy weed, ivy leaf, and pennywort are several common nominatives.
Coliseum ivy is a small plant that can reach up to 5 centimetres in height. Its flowers are typically purple, and small. These are shaped like snapdragons, in that there is a moderate trumpet-like structure with an opening that resembles a mouth. The leaves are small and round, many occurring on a single plant.
The plant is phototropic. It does not behaviourally move toward light, rather away from it in some cases. It appears to prefer the shade of cracks and crevices within stone and other structures following a flowering period: the seeds that result are pushed into the cracks that the plant inhabits.
Coliseum ivy can be found in many locations. Its range typically involves rocks, on which it grows, in gardens, meadows, roadsides, and in old walling.
It is edible, but evidently bitter. A slight degree of toxicity can be attributed to it in excess, as of other ivy. A more common use is as an external poultice to stop bleeding. It exhibits antiscorbutic and vulnerary properties, meaning it can prevent scurvy and stem blood flow. It may also be a means to treat symptoms of diabetes.
Common Chicory (Cichorium intybus):
Cichorium intybus is a woody, perennial herbaceous plant of the family Asteraceae. It is endemic to Europe, Asia, and Africa but has a global distribution through introduction.
Multiple cultivars of chicory exist. Many are cultivated for salad leaves and chicons. The entire plant is edible, and can be cooked in a multitude of ways. A coffee substitute and a food additive can be created from the dried and crushed root. The food additive, inulin, can be used as a sweetener and source of dietary fibre. Chicory is also a frequent forage crop for livestock.
Cichorium intybus has multiple terms attributed to it on a regional basis. Vernacular includes blue daisy, blue dandelion, blue sailors, blue weed, bunk, coffeeweed, cornflower, hendibeh, horseweed, ragged sailors, succory, wild bachelor's buttons, and wild endive. Further terms for cultivars of the Cichorium intybus var. foliosum include endive, radicchio, radichetta, Belgian endive, French endive, red endive, sugarloaf, and witloof.
Chicory flowers from March until October. The flowering stage of chicory features a tough, grooved, and hairy stem. Chicory can grow to 1.5 metres. The leaves are attached to stalks. They are lanceolate and unlobed and can range from 7.5 to 32 centimetres in length, and 2 to 8 centimetres in width. Flowers are 3 to 5 centimetres in circumference and typically light blue or lavender, but rarely white or pink. The oval seed has small scales at the ends.
Chicory is noted to relieve mild digestive disorders and loss of appetite due to its constituents.
Common Daisy (Bellis perennis):
Bellis perennis is a species of daisy belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is known colloquially as common daisy, English daisy, lawn daisy, woundwort, or bruisewort. It has a distribution globally, but an endemic range limited to central, western and northern Europe.
The species is an annual or perennial flowering plant that measures from 10 to 25 centimetres in height. It features creeping rhizomes. The leaves are rosulate and basal, with winged petioles and serrated or crenate borders. The ray flowers are white, pink, red, or purple in hue. The disk flowers are yellow.
The plant is medicinal. It is antitussive, anti-inflammatory and expectorant. It may be used to treat symptoms of bronchitis, cold, and respiratory tract infections. It is traditionally used to treat bronchitis, due to its rehydrative properties.
It can be used as a diuretic, digestive, purgative, laxative, and vulnerary. It is known to aid in digestion and to reduce bruises, swelling of the skin, pain in joints, and bleeding. If chewed, it can reduce oral ulcers.
Common Hepatica (Anemone hepatica):
Anemone hepatica, or the common hepatica, liverwort, kidneywort, or pennywort, is a species within the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is endemic to the northern hemisphere, particularly in continental Europe, North America, and Japan. Woodland, thickets, meadows, and mountains are a typical habitat.
The plant grows from rhizomes. It can reach 5 to 15 centimetres in height. The leaves and flowers occur from the rhizomes, not stems. The leaves have three lobes. They are fleshy, white, and hairless. Leaves are 5 to 6 centimetres long and 7 to 9 centimetres wide. The upper side of the leaves is dark green, with white stripes. The lower sides are violet to red-brown.
The leaves occur during or after flowers appear. These remain green throughout winter. The flowers occur in winter or spring. They are blue, pink, purple, or white in colour, with five to ten sepals and three bracts underneath.
The flowers produce pollen but no nectar. Bees search for nectar but find none. When pollen occurs, bees consume the pollen instead.
The plant is toxic when fresh. When dried, the protoanemonin compounds dimerise to the non-toxic anemonin.
It was believed to be a means to treat fever, respiratory ailments, digestive disorders, gout, and liver diseases in times since past. It is still used for pimples, bronchitis, and gout.
Cowslip (Primula veris):
Primula veris is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the family Primulaceae. The species is endemic to much of temperate Europe and western Asia. It is however absent from northern areas, such as northwest Scotland, yet occurs in northern Sutherland, Orkney, and Scandinavia. Primula veris often hybridises with other Primula species.
Aside from cowslip, terms attributed to Primula veris include common cowslip and cowslip primrose. The term 'cowslip' may reference its growth patterns, whether amid cow manure or in marshland and other damp terrains. Although the term 'cowslop' existed in Old English vernacular, and remains present in various dialects, the term 'cowslip' superceded it within the 16th century.
Primula veris is variable in that it can be evergreen or semi-evergreen. It is a perennial plant that grows to 25 centimetres in height. It broadens as it matures. The leaves are 5 to 15 centimetres long and 2 to 6 centimetres in width. The yellow flowers are produced in spring. Clusters of 10 to 30 blooms occur together on one stem. Each flower is 9 to 15 millimetres in diametre. Red and orange flowers are uncommon, but can occur from cross-pollination. These can become locally widespread in areas where primula hybrids flower within the same duration as the cowslip.
As a species, it is often found near water sources. Open grounds such as fields, meadows, coasts, and clifftops may be frequent habitats for it.
Cowslip is edible, and has had use in traditional cooking. Its leaves are included in salads, and its flowers are used as a flavouring for wines, teas, and vinegars. It can be considered an expectorant and anti-inflammatory, as well as an alleviant for headaches, nerve pain, and insomnia.
Dyer's Woad (Isatis tinctoria):
Isatis tinctoria is a flowering plant within the family Brassicaceae, or mustard family. It is commonly known as woad, dyer's woad, or glastum. There is a historical record of it being used as a dye plant and medicinal resource. The genus derives from the Attic Greek word for the species, ἰσάτις. The term 'woad' is also used for the blue dye produced from the plant's leaves.
Isatis tinctoria features basal leaves. These leaves occur in a radiating cluster from the stem base, and branch out from stem twigs. The basal leaves are stalked. These have a bluish green hue and are at most 18 centimetres in length. The leaves are lanceate. Every leaf has a whitish mid vein.
Woad is endemic to the steppe and desert regions of the Caucasus, Central Asia to Eastern Siberia, and Western Asia. It is naturalised in South-Eastern Europe, Central Europe, and North America.
The cultivation and use of woad extends to ancient time frames. It was an integral source of blue dye in use and in trade. There were central woad-growing regions in medieval England, Germany and France. Towns such as Toulouse, France became prosperous from the woad trade.
Woad seeds have been found from Neolithic periods. Particularly, the cave l'Audoste, Bouches-du-Rhône of France is a site where seeds have been recovered. Iron Age traces of woad have also been discovered: from shards of pottery and textiles found in pits and burial sites. The ancient Egyptians used woad to dye the cloth wrappings of their deceased. Woad has also been mentioned in the Babylonian Talmud. Celtic blue, a dye used by the Britanni tribe of Scotland, was also made from woad.
Medicinally, woad roots are used in Traditional Chinese medicine. A compound known as banlangen (bǎnlán'gēn, 板蓝根) is created from the species that is purported to have antiviral properties. Banlangen is used as an medicinal tea in China for colds and tonsular ailments. This tea has a brownish appearance and is mildly sweet in taste. Beyond antiviral properties, it is also evidently antibiotic, antifungal, anticancer, antiparasitic, and antinflammatory.
Elecampane (Inula helenium):
Inula helenium is a plant species with a wide growth range. It is endemic to Eurasia, from Spain to western China, and is naturalised in North America.
Inula helenium is a member of the sunflower family Asteraceae. It grows tall as of its relatives, around 90 to 150 centimetres, and spreads prolifically through its roots. This can be problematic if it is introduced to an area it is not local to.
The leaves are large, toothed, and feature small hairs on the upper sides of the leaves. The lower sides feature a thick layer of plant wool. Flowers are 5 centimetres across. Each stalk comprises 50 to 100 yellow ray flowers and 100 to 250 yellow disc flowers.
Inula helenium is edible. The roots are mucilaginous, and evidently bitter in taste, with a camphoraceous odour that has floral undertones.
Documented uses for the species exist throughout history. More archaic uses include diluting the plant in wine or oil, in order to lessen the effects of snake and spider venom. It also can be used as an expectorant and for water retention. Elecampane is an antiseptic and bactericide, aside from an anti-inflammatory. The root is strongly anthelmintic.
Elm-Leaved Sumach (Rhus coriaria):
Rhus coriaria is a plant in the cashew family Anacardiaceae that grows from the scale of a shrub to a small tree. It is endemic to southern Europe and western Asia, with long historic use by European and Asian cultures alike.
The dried or immature fruits and seeds are used as spices. In ancient Greek culture the species has had use similar to lemons as a flavouring. It is not limited to Greek culture in regard to archaic history. Other cultures have used it similarly as a spice. Before the lemon became apparent to European persons, sumach was instead utilised for the sourness it imparted.
The leaves are typically long and oval in shape, with toothed edges. Gradual spines are present along the entirety of an individual leaf. The leaves are vibrant green when healthy. Leaves grow outward in alternating and parallel segments, which end in a single leaf from a straight twig or branch. Multiple branches may occur from a larger branch, which grow alternatively along the limb. The seeds and fruits are reddish brown. The spice from ground seeds is also red-brown.
The plant will grow in deep and well drained soils, and appears tolerant of a variety of soil types.
The leaves and the bark were traditionally used in leather tanning. Both contain tannic acid. Red, yellow, black, and brown dyes can be made from individual sections of the plant. An oil extracted from the seeds can be used to make candles.
The species was traditionally used and has clinical investigation for lipid lowering effects. Clinical trials have indicated that the species presents significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer and DNA protective activity.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium):
Tanacetum parthenium is a flowering plant in the daisy family, or Asteraceae taxon. It is both ornamental and medicinal, and has use in traditional medicine. Three binomial synonyms are present for the species: Chrysanthemum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, and Pyrethrum parthenium. It is endemic to Eurasia, specifically the Balkan Peninsula, Anatolia, and the Caucasus. Distribution elsewhere has caused it to be naturalised in Europe, North America, and other places.
The plant is a herbaceous perennial. It grows into a small bush, up to 70 centimetres in height. The leaves are pungent, and light yellow-green in colouration. The leaf structure is variously pinnatifid. Flowers appear similar to daisies and reach up to 20 millimetres in diameter. These occur from singular, clustered lax corymbs. The outer ray florets have white ligules. The inner tubular disc florets are yellow.
The species spreads rapidly by seed. It can cover a wide terrain after a few years. The plant produces achene fruit. Individual plants often grow in stony slopes and around river beds.
Feverfew is a digestive, anti-inflammatory and an archaic pain reliever. Discontinued use of it however can cause rebound headaches, aside from muscle and joint pain. It may also interfere with medication or blood thinners, resulting in complications or increased bleeding from wounds.
It can relieve itching if applied externally. Insect stings and bites may be prevented by it as an external extract or spray, as it is natural repellent for a variety of insect species. It is further antiseptic and insecticidal. A pesticide can be made from the flowers in combination with mineral oil, sesame or other oil, and water.
Crossandra infundibuliformis is a flowering plant in the Acanthaceae or acanthus family. The common names include firecracker flower and firecracker plant. It is endemic to parts of Africa, Sri Lanka, and India. It is capable of growth in warmer climates.
The species typically grows as an erect evergreen shrub. It can reach 1 metre in height. It features glossy leaves with wavy margins. Fan-shaped flowers may appear at any time of the season. Flowers are unusually shaped. Each features 3 to 5 asymmetrical petals, growing from a trumpet-like 2 centimetre stalk. The flowers appear from four-sided erect stalks. The flowers range from orange, salmon-orange, apricot, coral, red, yellow, or turquoise.
The common name relates to the seed pods. These are found after the flower has dried. These tend to burst when near high humidity or during a rainfall. The explosion releases the seeds onto the ground, creating new seedlings.
The plant is medicinal. It can be considered antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, aphrodisiac, anodyne, antipyretic, antidiabetic, antiarthritic, antisolar, hepatoprotective, and vulnerary. It can be used to reduce bleeding and to treat symptoms of pain, fever, bronchitis, cough, tuberculosis, liver complication, and cancer.
Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides):
Gardenia jasminoides is a flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae, the coffee, madder, or bedstraw taxonomy. The species is endemic to South-East Asia, but has spread elsewhere through introduction in gardens and parks.
Wild plants can range from 30 centimetres in height to 3 metres in height. Domesticated specimens can vary beyond this. Wild varieties are less susceptible to disease and weather. Plants of this species, regardless of domestic or wild origin, have a habit of growing dense branches.
The leaves are lanceolate, oblong, and shiny green with waxy coating and visible veins. The upper side may have minimal to no evident hairs, and the underside similarly has minimal cover. The leaves grow alternatingly along the branches. As the species features vibrant green leaves and very fragrant summer and autumn flowers, which are followed by small oval fruits, its use is widespread in warm temperate or subtropical climates.
The species has over one thousand years of cultivation history in China. It was introduced to other locations in the 18th century.
The flowers are edible. They can be eaten raw, pickled, soaked in honey, or soaked as a tea. The fruits are similarly edible. Both the flowers and fruits have medicinal value. In traditional Chinese medicine, the flowers and fruits are anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiperiodic, cathartic, anthelmintic, external-antiseptic, antibacterial, demulcent, cholagogic, diuretic, and antipyretic. These are notably used to treat fevers and atopic dermatitis.
The scent of a gardenia can bolster the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. This causes drowsiness and potential unconsciousness. The potency of this rivals that of propofol, an intravenous sedative, and many medicines within the barbiturate class of sedative drugs.
Garden Mignonette (Reseda odorata):
Reseda odorata is a plant within the Reseda, or mignonette genus. Several common names can be attributed to it, including garden mignonette, common mignonette, and sweet reseda. It was grown by the ancient Romans as a fragrance plant, due to its aromatic qualities, and was significant as a perfume in ancient cosmetics.
Reserda odorata may be endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. It has wide historic presence or use throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and other regions, which causes uncertainty about its original range. Although frequently a garden plant, it has been known to be a wild escape at times. Its ornamental use compounds with the essential oil that can be produced from its flowers, which have highly aromatic qualities.
The species is an annual herb. It produces branching, erect stems as it grows. The plant can reach 80 centimetres in height. Each inflorescence produced by the plant is a spike-like raceme, with many individual flowers. Each flower has six white to yellow or green petals. The upper petals are divided into three narrow lobes. The centre of the flower features up to 25 stamens that are accented with large orange anthers.
The root is acrid and can cause skin irritation. Despite this risk, extracts from the root can be considered diaphoretic, diuretic, sedative, and laxative. An extract from the seeds can be used externally as an antiecchymotic, resolvant, or antitumour medicine.
A yellow dye can be produced from the roots, which was traditionally used until the beginning of the 20th century due to the availability of synthetic dyes.
Great Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis):
Bougainvillea spectabilis, commonly known as great bougainvillea, is a species of plant within the Bougainvillea genus and Nyctaginaceae family. The genus it belongs to are further called paper flowers.
Great bougainvillea is endemic to areas of South America. It is however widely grown elsewhere, having been transported to Europe in the 1700s. It was noted by European persons in 1767 CE. A French sailor, Admiral Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, aside from the naturalist Philibert Commerson, were originally the persons credited with its transport and introduction. However, due to the French navy barring women on ships, the credit to an assistant Jeanne Baret, who was in a relationship with Commerson and by extent dressed as a man and boarded regardless, was unknown until recently.
Great bougainvillea grows as a woody vine or shrub. It reaches a height of 4.6 metres to 12.2 metres. The leaves are heart-shaped and the stems feature thorns. Flowers are small, white or yellow, and inconspicuous against the larger vibrant bracts that partly surround them. These bracts can be white, red, mauve, purple-red, or orange in hue. The fruit that results from the flowers are similarly inconspicuous: a dry elongated achene.
The species is medicinal. It features anticancer, antidiabetic, antihepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiulcer properties. It is capable of treating symptoms relating to fever, diabetes, internal and external inflammation, joint pain, and respiratory issues.
As it features a compound alike to insulin, it has been noted to work against diabetes. It may also conflict with bad cholesterol.
In aromatherapy, it may reduce pain and inflammation. Dried or fresh flowers can be steeped to make a tea. This is often done in combination with honey and cinnamon.
It may be slightly toxic. It is known to occasionally cause skin irritation and digestive complication. Excess use may be faulty.
Green Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum):
Elettaria cardamimum is an herbaceous, perennial plant in the Zingiberaceae taxon, or ginger family. It is endemic to southern India but has historic distribution elsewhere in Asia and Europe. The species is the most commonly used plant for the spice called cardamom. Another species, Amomum subulatum, is also harvested for cardamom. Elettaria cardamomum is widely harvested in tropical areas. Naturalised populations reputedly exist in Réunion, Indochina, and Costa Rica.
The species grows to around 2 to 4 metres in height. Leaves are typically alternate in two ranks. Individual leaves are linear-lanceolate and 40–60 centimetres long, the end of the leaf featuring a long tapering point. Flowers are white, lilac, or pale violet. These are produced in loose spikes of 30 to 60 centimetres. The fruit is a triangular yellow to green pod that is 1 to 2 centimetres in length. It typically contains 15 to 20 black to brown seeds.
Green cardamom may have been used in Ayurveda medicine as early as 300 BCE. Ground cardamom is included in many Indian curries. It is integral to the flavour of masala chai. Cardamom is used to flavour coffee and tea in India and Iran. Cardamom has historic and traditional medicinal use for treatment of nausea, kidney disorders, gum infections, and cataracts. The ancient Greeks, who obtained the spice through trade, highly purported its medicinal qualities. In the 4th century BCE, Theophrastus, the original Greek writer for botany, described and distinguished both green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and black cardamom (Amomum subulatum).
Cardamom production began in ancient durations. It is referred to in ancient Sanskrit texts as ela. The Babylonians and Assyrians recognised and utilised the health benefits of the spice early into their respective histories. Trade in cardamom occurred along land routes and through the interlinked Persian Gulf route, into western Asia and the Mediterranean world. This occured as early as the third millennium BCE in the Early Bronze Age.
Green cardamom is antioxidant, diuretic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antiulcer, anticavity, antibacterial, eupnea-improving, and hypoglycemic. It may be used in powdered form, as whole seeds, or in aromatherapy.
The primary volatile components in green cardamom are α-terpinyl acetate, eucalyptol, and alpha pinene. These contribute to its scent and flavour.
Elettaria cardamomum is a food plant for the larvae of the moth Endoclita hosei, which also frequent plants of the Eucalyptus and Theobroma generas.
Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta):
Cardamine hirsuta is an annual or biennial flower plant species in the family Brassicaceae, or mustard, crucifer, or cabbage family. It is found worldwide. It is endemic to Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, North Africa, Central Africa, and the Horn of Africa, but is noted to be widely distributed elsewhere. Damp areas are a frequent habitat for the species. The leaves, flowers, and seed pods are edible whether raw or cooked, although evidently bitter or peppery.
The climate it grows in may limit or bolster its growth patterns. One or two generations may occur in a single year. The first generation may occur in the spring, and the second in the fall. Conditions may also cause the seeds to germinate in the fall, rather than overwintering, and cause individual plants to remain green through the winter before flowering in the spring.
The species typically grows up to 30 centimetres, the stem the tallest part of the plant. A rosette pattern of leaves is typical about the base of an individual plant stem. Leaves may further grow on the stem itself. The leaves in a typical rosette are divided between 8 to 15 leaflets. The leaflets may be 3.5 to 15 centimetres long, and may be round to ovate with smooth to dentate edges. The larger leaflet at the ending terminal leaflet is typically round to reniform, or shaped similar to a kidney with inclining inner edges. Cauline leaflets, or those attached to the upper stem, are pinnately divided. Fewer leaflets exist along the upper stem, excluding those that may grow on the end of the stalk prior to the flowers. Higher leaves typically grow from a petiole and are 1.2 to 5.5 centimetres long. Stems, petioles, and the upper surfaces of the cauline leaves have minimal plant hairs.
The flowers that result from the stem and its unbracted racemes are small, white and spatulate in shape. Each of the typically four petals that comprise each flower may be from 1.5 to 4.5 millimetres in length. Four stamens of equal height exist in the centre of the flowers. This is considered different from related species, which feature six stamens. The pollen grains are elongated, and are typically 32 microns in length.
The seeds grow from upright pointing siliquae, which are straight and 1.5 to 2.5 centimetres long and 1 to 1.4 millimetres in diameter. When the fruit ripens, the valves on the siliquae coil tightly from the bottom to the top after being interacted with. These burst explosively, and send the seeds flying from the parent plant. This is referred to as ballochory and is a type of rapid plant movement.
Most plants contain a considerable amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Other medicinal qualities include the presence of glucosinolates, which are known to remove carcinogens from living systems.
Horned Rampion (Phyteuma scheuchzeri):
Phyteuma scheuchzeri is a flowering plant in the bellflower family Campanulaceae. It has the common names horned rampion and Oxford rampion, the former due to its flowering structure, which features horn-like protrusions. It is found in alpine and mountainous regions of Europe, the Alps, Balkan Mountains, Carpathians, and Pyrenees included.
The plant typically grows to 30 to 45 millimetres in height in its endemic habitat. In ideal settings, the plant and flowers can gain in scale, up to 60 centimetres at most. Individual plants have a widespread root system and deep tap roots, allowing capability for rapid spread and water retention. As its endemic habitat is montane and up to 3600 metres above sea level, the species genetically adapted to its dry surroundings.
The leaves are thin and lanceate. These typically lack sharp edges, excluding the pointed end of the individual leaf. Hairs are also lacking. The flowers are deep blue to purple in colouration. These are orb-like in shape, a multitude of horned spikes comprising the flowerhead. The flower is evidently aromatic.
The species is nontoxic and has use in traditional medicine. It is known to be antipyretic, diuretic, and expectorant. A tea or tisane can be made from the flowers for symptoms related to the throat, bronchial, or respiratory system.
Pollinating insects are frequently attracted to the flowers. A blue-grey dye can be made from the flowers, and a green-grey dye can be made from other sections of the plant.
Ironwort (Sideritis scardica):
Sideritis scardica is one of multiple small, drought-tolerant or xerophytic species of small shrubs or herbs within the plant genus Sideritis. Many species in this genus are perennial or annual, and grow in or near the Mediterranean Basin.
Sideritis scardica, also known as ironwort, mountain tea, or shepherd tea, is a perennial flowering plant. It typically grows at a high elevation, as of other related species. Minimal or no soil is typically present in its rocky habitat. It may grow in soil or on rocks. The species is endemic to Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece. It was found in the areas of Mount Olympus, Kosovo, and North Macedonia historically, but has been distributed in gardens elsewhere.
The pale green leaves are oval or lanceate. The comparison to spears is potentially where the name ironwort originated. It produces stalks on which multiple yellow-green flowers grow in minute bracts.
In Greek, Turkish, and other cultures archaically, it was a frequent medicine and beverage due to its purported medicinal and salutary properties. It can be made into a tea for drinking, or for accelerating wound recovery. In ancient wars and other times of conflict, it was a frequent tisane used to mend wounds made by iron weapons. The infection that such weapons caused was negated by the chemical properties of the tea. Compounds present in the herb were capable of stemming blood loss and causing wound closure.
Honey, citrus, mint, chamomile, or other additives are traditionally added to the tisanes made from the species, to bolster its effects and nutritional value.
It is a caffeine-free herb with immune-boosting, antiulcerative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, anodyne, carminative, mood-enhancing, antidepressive, and cognitive-boosting properties. It can alleviate many related symptoms to diseases and disorders, potentially conflicting with cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, or disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD.