MEDICINAL PLANTS

The Olivilla is a small plant that unless exceptional conditions rarely exceed one meter high. It stays green all year round, is full of leaves somewhat coriaceous, long, attenuated at base and entire edge. The flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves in small numbers and are composed of a chalice with three young soldiers at the base of sepals and a corolla of three yellow petals, much longer than the calyx. The fruit, formed by three coconuts, separates easily at maturity. One grows in dry places but near the sea, mainly on limestone soils. It is not easy to find in our Peninsula.

FLOWERING

The Olivilla blooms in spring, although not being a characteristic species of our flora is not an exact month of flowering. Interested harvest the whole plant, although it is recommended to never use its proven toxic effects.

APPLICATIONS

The composition of the sprig is completely unknown so far. In its properties you know something more, although not widely used because of adverse effects. It is a drastic purgative herb effect with a potency similar to rubber and gutta euphorbias. This type of medicinal plants (fairly common in ancient times) are now totally discouraged by the violence with which exert their effects. A purgative medicine is not recommended except when other preparations have failed smoother and better known. When used without any control can lead to unpleasant side effects and in some cases very dangerous. Therefore it is recommended that the physician assess the situation and determine the need to go or not to use laxatives. The same goes for laxatives, although the effects of the latter are smoother and better controlled. It is known that in some villages of the Balearic Islands this plant is used as purifying the body. We believe that until more is known in depth this plant should refrain from using it, provided it is not prescribed by specialists.

ADMINISTRATION

For external use. In some areas of our peninsula is used externally as a lever. This will prepare a poultice of the leaves properly prepared. Via internal employment is discouraged.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Cneoraceas
HABITAT: Limestone soils
FLOWERING: Spring
PART USED: Whole plant
CASTILIAN: Olivereta
CATALAN: Raspalll, garrupa

USES

Strong Laxative, Moderate rubefacient, Moderately Toxic.