Ononis spinosa, also known as the thorny resting harrow, is an herbal home remedy that can treat skin and kidney problems, and has culinary uses. The plant is also used in homeopathic medicine and contains cough suppressant qualities. It grows in sunny grassland climates and creates a symbiotic relationship with bacteria.
The thorny European shrub Ononis spinosa, also known as the thorny resting harrow, is an herbal home remedy. It can be used to treat a multitude of health problems, including those of the skin and kidneys. The plant also has many culinary uses. When crushed or bruised, it produces a pleasant scent.
All parts of the ononis spinosa are edible, including the roots, flowers, and leaves. Young plants are often cooked or used as potherb. The roots serve as a licorice treat, while the flowers, which can be eaten raw, are presented with salad as a garnish.
In homeopathic medicine, ononis spinosa root, also known as ononis radix, can be used to prevent premature aging of the skin. The plant is useful in treating inflammation, a main cause of skin aging. A diuretic, ononis spinosa can also help the skin to release fluid, clear up congestion, and reduce swelling. For this reason, the remedy can be found in various toners and other skin products.
The young shoots of the plant are most commonly used in herbal remedies. Kidney gravel can be treated with spiny rest stands. The plant can also be used to clear infection from the body such as urinary tract infection. Traditionally, ononis radix has been used to treat skin ulcers when used in a wash solution. The stem and leaves may also be useful in treating skin conditions.
Ononis spinosa contains cough suppressant qualities. The bark of the plant can be used to create a cough elixir. The herbal remedy can also be used as a laxative. Infusions made with ononis spinosa can be useful in treating conditions such as rheumatism, skin disorders, bladder and kidney irritation, and body swelling.
The spiny resting harrow can also be found growing in North Africa and Asia. In these areas, it usually grows on stony slopes, open pine forests, or chalk and limestone grasslands. The plant prefers sunny grassland climates with dry to slightly moist soil, and will not flourish in shade. The perennial plant grows to two feet (.6 meters) and blooms from early summer to early fall. Its hermaphroditic pink and white flowers are pollinated by bees, and its leaves are sectioned into groups of three.
By growing in certain soils, ononis spinosa creates a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. Along with plant roots, bacteria can form nodules of atmospheric nitrogen to support plant health. This nitrogen also helps other nearby plants to grow.
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