Peganum harmala
Peganum harmala
Peganum harmala, also known as Syrian rue or wild rue, is a perennial, herbaceous plant native to the eastern Mediterranean region and northern India. It is a member of the Nitrariaceae family.
Pronunciation
Peganum harmala: /pɪˈɡænəm ˈhɑːrmələ/
Etymology
The genus name Peganum is derived from the ancient Greek word peganon, which was used to describe a variety of plants with small, round leaves. The species name harmala is derived from the Arabic word harmal, which is the common name for the plant in its native range.
Description
Peganum harmala is a bushy plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. It has small, bright green leaves and produces white flowers in the summer, followed by round, brown fruits. The seeds of Peganum harmala are rich in harmine and harmaline, two alkaloids that have been used in traditional medicine and religious rituals.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Peganum harmala has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, insomnia, and depression. The seeds are also used in some cultures as a protective charm against the evil eye. However, the plant is toxic in large doses and should be used with caution.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Peganum harmala
- Wikipedia's article - Peganum harmala
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