Content
British elecampane is a grass, a weed that grows under everyone’s feet. Popularly known under different names - devyasil, British oman or boletus.
The plant has bright yellow, sunny flowers
Botanical description of the plant
Elecampane British, or British oman, is a perennial from the Asteraceae family. This is not such a huge plant as its relative, tall elecampane. The British Oman has an erect stem, its height is only 15 - 20 cm. But the beauty of the plants and healing properties are almost the same:
- leaves are oblong, softly pubescent, arranged alternately;
- flower baskets – yellow;
- 5 stamens;
- pistil - with an inferior ovary and a bipartite stigma;
- the fruit is a fluffy achene.
This is a bright, small plant, very beautiful in appearance. Both the stem and leaves are pubescent. Having once seen the British elecampane, it becomes clear why the plant is planted in flower beds. It will look very beautiful both on the lawn or near the fence, and on a rocky hill.
Distribution area
This species of elecampane is widespread in most regions of Russia; this zone is considered native to this plant. Although judging by the name, he most likely comes from Britain. Preferred growing places:
- wet soils;
- coasts of rivers and lakes;
- islands;
- water meadows, forests;
- fields with close groundwater;
- ditches.
The natural distribution area of the grass is southern and central Russia, Ukraine, and the entire central part of Eurasia.
All parts of the plant have medicinal properties.
Value and composition of British elecampane
British elecampane has enormous healing powers. The following substances were found in it:
- inulin – almost 40%;
- alkaloids;
- terpenoids;
- acids;
- tanning agents;
- flavonoids;
- saponins.
In its properties, elecampane roots can successfully replace ginger. In ancient times, this part of the plant was used to dye wool, linen products, and threads. And today, by adding potassium carbonate or potassium alkali to the decoction, you can easily get a dark blue color. But what our ancestors added to the infusion to make paint is truly a mystery.
In addition to the fact that the plant is very beautiful, it is an excellent honey plant. Unfortunately, there isn't much of it in the fields. It is the beauty of the grass that has caused it to be plucked uncontrollably, reducing its numbers in the wild. The plant contains volatile compounds. Their presence reveals a light aroma emanating from the herb.
All parts of the herb have medicinal properties:
- stem with leaves;
- inflorescences;
- rhizomes with roots.
The herb can be used for home cosmetic care for the appearance; it has no equal here. The plant will cope with any skin diseases:
- wounds;
- cuts;
- eczema;
- dermatitis;
- acne;
- comedones.
In ancient times, the herb was often added to bathing water. Young girls made tinctures or decoctions to get rid of acne and pimples. But those who do not need to drink elecampane are those who are prone to excess weight. Compositions from this herb increase appetite.
The herb can be used as a tea substitute
Medicinal properties of British elecampane
The pharmacological properties of British elecampane are almost equivalent to the high variety. The plant can have the following effects on the human body:
- diuretic;
- diaphoretic;
- hemostatic;
- antiseptic;
- immunomodulatory;
- wound healing;
- appetite stimulant.
Use in folk medicine
The pulp from fresh leaves of the plant can be applied to wounds and ulcers, bites of rabid animals. To treat internal diseases, prepare an infusion:
- steam 1 tbsp. l. dry herbs in 250 ml of boiling water;
- Infuse for 2 hours;
- strain the warm solution;
- drink 3-4 times a day, 1-2 tbsp. l.
It is recommended to take it for diathesis, diarrhea and bleeding. Children should be given a reduced dosage for worms. In Belarus, the infusion is used for alcohol dependence. The herb can be used as a topical remedy to help heal wounds. The infusion has a beneficial effect in the treatment of female diseases. Before use, consult a doctor.
Herbal decoction is beneficial for both men and women
Restrictions and contraindications
There are no contraindications for British elecampane as such. For children, the dose of the drug should be reduced by approximately half or slightly less, depending on age.
Like any herb or food product, elecampane can cause individual immunity of the body to its components, an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is better for people prone to such diseases to start taking the decoction with minimal doses.
Conclusion
Elecampane British is known in folk medicine in many countries. This amazing herb has not been fully studied, but it is already known that it has many positive properties.
