MEDICINAL PLANTS

This plant has a number of small diameter stems, which grow a few inches below ground level, being a fairly branched underground stems (not to be confused with the roots) intermittently arising from these other stems, and upright, they emerge to the outside reaching a height of thirty centimeters, curiously, are of a diameter greater than before. These stalks have a square section at each node and stem a number of sheets, whose number varies from four to ten in the top.

FLOWERING

Small white flowers stand at the upper ends of the stems and usually occur from May. The fruit is formed from July and is spherical form, with the surface covered by countless hair twisted into a hook. The collection will be made during flowering or after completing it. Drying will quickly, preferably sheltered from the sun, and once made shall be stored in a container away from moisture. It is interesting to note in this plant, as it moves up the drying process, increasing their ability aromatic-where the suit is successful, of course.

APPLICATIONS

The leaves and flowers contain a glucoside sumidad subsequently transformed into coumarin. We can also find and monotropic anthraquinones which give antispasmodic properties, so it is used in cases of gastrointestinal spasm, improving digestion sluggish. It is further considered good sedative and hypnotic, and that can be used in situations of stress, nervousness and insomnia. It is also mildly diuretic effect, so its use is recommended in cases of oliguria and urinary stones. It is a good anti-inflammatory and is very effective for eye wash in case of blepharitis.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion. Forty grams of leaves and flower sumidad added to a liter of water and boiled, leaving it in contact for ten minutes. Fluid obtained after filtration can drink a cup after the two main meals, thus facilitating the digestion. It can also take a cup an hour before bedtime for insomnia.
Infusion eye bath. Prepared by adding half an ounce to a quart of boiled water and keeping in contact for fifteen minutes. The resulting liquid is used at a temperature around 30 degrees Celsius for eyewash, acting as anti-inflammatory eyelids and eye area.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Rubiaceae
HABITAT: Cantabrian mountain range
FLOWERING: May
PART USED: Leaf and flower sumidad
CASTILIAN: Asperilla

USES

Strong anti-inflammatory, Digestive Moderate, Mild diuretic.