Among the huge variety of flowering plants, blue flowers are the most memorable. Especially if they have an interesting reputation and an unusual name. In this article we will talk about snakehead, which is also called dragonhead, Turkish lemon balm, blueberry, honeyberry and much more. Everything about this plant is unusual! And the peculiar blue inflorescences that open up to 500 flowers per season, and the pleasant citrus aroma, and the glory of a wonderful healer. And you can meet it anywhere: high in the mountains and on the plains, in dry pine forests and in floodplains of meadows. Perhaps there is a place for it in your garden.
Snakehead - an indispensable plant for the apothecary bed
Description of the plant
The snakehead got its name not by chance. The corollas of its flowers resemble the head of a dragon or a large snake with an open mouth. For this similarity, it was named Dracocephalum - from the Greek drakon and kephalos, which means snake and head. But this plant does not look formidable; the blue color rather evokes a feeling of peace and tranquility.
The snakehead, depending on the type and place of cultivation, can be perennial or annual. For this reason, it is sometimes classified as a herb, but in fact it is a shrub or subshrub. Its erect flower-bearing tetrahedral stems reach a height of 20 to 90 cm. The color of the flowers varies from pale blue to white and purple. The opposite, oblong-oval, dark green leaves have serrated edges. A long, well-branched tap root goes into the ground.
Most species of snakehead bloom in summer, in July-August. The flowers of the lower false whorls open first on the plants and then higher and higher along the spike-shaped inflorescence. In place of the flowers, triangular seeds are formed - nut-shaped seeds, which, scattering around, immediately germinate.
The snakehead is unusual not only in the shape of the flower, similar to the open mouth of a dragon, but also in the elongated seeds, decorated on one side with two light spots.
Snakehead, or Dracocephalum. © LuontoPortti
Application of drooping snakehead
Parts used: grass, seeds
Collection time: grass - June-July, seeds - as they ripen
The herb contains essential oil. Various parts of the plant also contain: anethole - in eff. vegetable oil 2%; apigenin - leaf. 0.156%, stb. 0.097%, color. 0.117%; camphor (camphor) - in eff. vegetable oil 0.7%; gamma-linolenic acid - in family oil. 64.6%; linalool - in eff. vegetable oil 0.5%; alpha-, beta-pinenes - in eff. vegetable oil 1.5-1.7%; citral - in eff. vegetable oil 50%.
Harvesting: the above-ground part of the plant is harvested during flowering. The raw materials are dried in a well-ventilated area or in dryers at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. The seed plants are removed when the seeds in the lower part of the plant are ripe and in the upper part they become brown in color. The shelf life of raw materials is 1 year.
Cultivation: Snakehead is a relatively cold-resistant and light-loving crop. In the initial stage of growth it requires plenty of moisture, and during flowering it can tolerate drought. Shading has a negative impact on yield and aromaticity. The optimal predecessors are cabbage and cucumber. After harvesting the predecessor, the soil must be slightly loosened by adding nitrophoska. In spring, the area should be loosened again and leveled. Heavily compacted soil is dug up to a depth of three-quarters of the autumn tillage. Sowing is done before winter or early spring. Seeds are sown in rows with row spacing of 30-50 cm. The planting depth should not exceed 1.5-2 cm when sowing in spring. Thinning begins when 2-3 true leaves form, leaving 8-10 cm between plants in the row.
Application: in folk medicine, an infusion of the herb is drunk for throat diseases, female bleeding, and mixed with fir sulfur for pulmonary tuberculosis.
The herb extract exhibits antibacterial activity.
Infusion and decoction of the herb is used for angina pectoris, headaches, gastritis, gastralgia, pulmonary tuberculosis, respiratory infections, asthenia, and women's diseases; baths for rheumatism.
In Tibetan medicine, an infusion of the herb is used for nephritis, gastroenteritis, and as a gargle for stomatitis and gingivitis.
The seeds are considered a mucilage agent, similar to sage.
In Transbaikalia, an infusion of the herb is taken for headaches.
Economic purpose: honey plant. Flowers secrete a significant amount of nectar, but due to its deep location at the bottom of the narrow tube of the corolla, bees visit the snakehead, which droops well only when the level of nectar rises to a height accessible to them.
Recipes:
- infusion for headaches: 1 tablespoon of dry crushed herb per 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 20-30 minutes, filter. Take 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day before meals.
- decoction for angina pectoris, headaches, gastritis, gastralgia, pulmonary tuberculosis, respiratory infections, asthenia: 3 tablespoons of dry crushed herb per 400 ml of water, boil over low heat for 2-3 minutes, leave for 2 hours, filter. Take 1/4 cup 3 times a day before meals, slowly, in sips, warm.
Contraindications: individual intolerance.
Species of snakehead
The snakehead belongs to the Lamiaceae or Lamiaceae family. Its genus (Snakehead) includes about 40 species that grow in the temperate climate zone. Wherever you can find this unpretentious plant - in America, Asia, and Europe!
The species differ from each other in the growth pattern of the stems, the size and color of the corollas, the structure of the leaves, and the flowering period. Thus, snakehead , or Altai (Dracocephalum grandiflorum) is distinguished by a wide diameter of the bush, up to 60 cm, which includes up to 30 peduncles. Each peduncle bears up to 60 flowers. The large-flowered snakehead blooms with large, up to 2.8 cm long, dark blue flowers, from the last days of June to the beginning of August. Mostly grown as an annual crop. It grows naturally in Siberia, China and Mongolia.
Moldavian snakehead (Dracocephalum moldavica) has small purple flowers, a reddish stem 30 to 60 cm high. It is distinguished by the greatest unpretentiousness and an extended flowering period - from mid-summer to cold weather. Its different varieties have different corolla colors - white, bluish-violet, violet-blue. It is grown as an annual honey and essential oil crop, as well as for processing into medicinal raw materials. In nature, it can be found in the Baikal region, Western and Eastern Siberia, the Volga region, the Altai Territory, as well as in Ukraine and Belarus.
Austrian snakehead (Dracocephalum austriacum) is found in cultivation as a perennial plant. Blooms in May-June. It has large, 2–3 cm long, lilac-blue (dark purple) flowers and a stem height of about 20–30 cm. Its homeland is Asia and Europe.
The beardless snakehead (Dracocephalum imberbe) also has large, 2.5-4 cm flowers, but of a dark blue color. And the height of the stems is from 10 to 35 cm. It is found in Siberia, Central Asia and China.
But Ruysch's snakehead (Dracocephalum ruyschiana) has steel-blue flowers. Flowering begins in June and continues until September. The height of its bushes can reach 40 cm. It is grown both as an ornamental plant in gardens and as an industrial crop for oil production. It is found naturally in Siberia, the Far East, Central Asia, Kazakhstan and Eastern Europe.
The Bunge snakehead (Dracocephalum bungeanum) has a shoot height of only 2 to 8 cm. Its flowers are collected in spherical or ovoid dense heads. Corollas - from 1.7 to 2.1 cm, dark blue. Grows in Altai and Tuva.
The oregano snakehead (Dracocephalum origanoides) is also low, its shoots height is from 2 to 8 cm. Its flowers are collected in spherical or ovoid heads. The corollas are blue, 1.2-1.5 cm long. Grows in Siberia, Mongolia, Central Asia and China.
Despite the differences, all species of snakehead are considered good honey plants and have healing properties.
Large-flowered snakehead, or Altai (Dracocephalum grandiflorum). © peganum
Austrian snakehead (Dracocephalum austriacum). © Ján Zábojník
Ruysch's snakehead (Dracocephalum ruyschiana). © delirium florens
Using the herb Moldovan snakehead
Parts used: aerial part of the plant (grass).
Collection time: June-August.
Various parts of the plant contain: geraniol - in eff. leaf oil; ef. oil color 9-21%; linalyl acetate - eff. oil; linalool - eff. vegetable oil, eff. oil color; alpha-, beta-pinenes - eff. oil; thymol - eff. vegetable oil 0.23%; citral - in eff. vegetable oil 20-50%; ef. oil color 37-80.5%, 25-50%; citronellal - eff. oil.
Harvesting: the above-ground part of the plant is harvested during flowering. The raw materials are dried under a canopy outside or in a well-ventilated area. Artificial drying is carried out at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. It is necessary to ensure that the color of the raw material is preserved. The flowers turn dark blue after drying. The beneficial properties of snakehead raw materials last up to 1 year.
Application: in folk medicine, an aqueous infusion of the herb is used as an anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, analgesic, sedative, anticonvulsant, antispasmodic, as well as for dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, for hepatitis, gastritis, nephritis, pyelonephritis, to stimulate appetite, for women's diseases , rapid heartbeat, neuralgia, migraine, headache, stomatitis, and colds.
The tincture dilates the vessels of the mesentery and increases the speed of blood flow.
The herb extract exhibits antibacterial activity.
A decoction of the seeds is used as an astringent, sedative, and carminative.
Fresh crushed leaves accelerate the healing of purulent wounds.
For rheumatism and bruises, compresses from fresh or steamed dry herbal mass are applied to the sore spot.
In India, infusion and decoction of the herb is used as a tonic and astringent.
In Tibetan medicine, the aerial part of the plant in the form of an infusion is recommended for hepatitis, gastritis, nephritis, and for stomatitis - as a rinse; in Mongolian medicine - for diseases of the liver and stomach.
Economic purpose: the essential oil obtained from the Moldavian snakehead is a transparent liquid of light yellow color with a lemon smell and is used in the perfumery and cosmetics industry in the manufacture of high-quality soaps, creams and perfumes.
The use of Moldavian snakehead is also common in the confectionery and canning industries, as well as in the production of vermouth and for flavoring soft drinks.
Fresh and dried leaves and flowers, which have a lemon scent, are used in cooking. It is added as a spice to summer salads, fish broth, pickle soup and other soups. The plant imparts a piquant aroma to meat and fish dishes. Powder from dried leaves is added to homemade sausages. Snakehead is put in tea, compotes, and bread kvass. The serving rate for 1 serving is 0.2-0.4 g. Spice is added to liquid dishes 3 minutes before serving.
Honey plant. The honey is light, transparent, with a slight lemon aroma.
Recipes:
- infusion for heart palpitations: 1 tablespoon of dry crushed herb per 1 glass of boiling water. Leave for 20-25 minutes in a sealed container, filter. Take 1-2 tablespoons 15 minutes before meals 3-4 times a day.
- decoction for migraines: 1 teaspoon of seeds in 1 glass of water, boil over low heat for 3-4 minutes, leave for 2 hours, filter. Take 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day.
- dry and fresh herbs, steamed and wrapped in gauze, are used in the form of pain-relieving compresses.
Article on the topic: Althaea officinalis (pharmacy) - beneficial properties, description
Despite the high medicinal properties of snakehead, a contraindication to its use is individual intolerance.
Snakehead in the garden and vegetable garden
The snakehead is an excellent honey plant. Its flowers are eagerly visited by bees. And due to the fact that its flowering is extended, they have enough work for a long period. On average, the productivity of this plant is 200–300 kg per hectare, and in the most favorable years 400–500 kg per hectare. Dragonhead honey is light in color, transparent, and has a pleasant aroma.
The snakehead is rarely found in gardens. And if it does grow, it attracts attention with the unusual color of the flowers and a pleasant citrus aroma. And, most often, it is planted in the apothecary garden.
You can place the bushes on an alpine hill, among stones, or in a mixborder, among other flowers. The snakehead can grow in partial shade, shaded by neighboring crops, and in open sun. The only thing is that in the sun it emits a stronger aroma, and if there is not enough light, it smells much weaker.
Snakehead - medicinal properties and contraindications
Snakehead, or as it is also called “Dragocephalum”, is a honey plant and has a pleasant citrus-mint aroma. This grass is grown in many countries due to its ease of care. It can withstand low and high temperatures, requires good lighting and sufficient humidity (watering).
However, the most important thing about snakehead is that it is a storehouse of various vitamins and is actively used both in medicine and in cosmetology. You can make a delicious tea from it, a healthy tincture, a healing compress, or simply add it to food to give it a delicate, piquant taste and aroma.
Growing snakehead from seeds
Propagating snakehead is not difficult. The easiest way is to separate part of the shrub from an adult plant and plant it on your own site. Or dig up and transfer young plants from nature to the garden. But you can collect the seeds and sow them in a permanent place in the spring - the plants will bloom the same year.
It is important to note that the seeds of the snakehead ripen unevenly, since the flowers do not bloom at the same time. But those collected unripe ripen well during the drying process and remain viable for up to 5-7 years. Unlike many other plants, they do not require a period of stratification, but germinate immediately, without special preparation. Moreover, if you soak them in water, a lump of mucus swells around the seed, after which it is difficult to sow the seeds, and if you try to dry it, it is even more problematic, since they stick together into a lump.
In order to collect snakehead seeds, it is necessary to cut off several completely faded central inflorescences. Lay them out on paper and thresh them carefully. But for the first planting, you can buy seed material. There are about 800 snakehead seeds per 1 gram.
Seeds should be sown to a depth of 1–2 cm. The width between plants and rows should be based on the diameter of the bush of an adult plant. You will have to wait a long time for seedlings - from 10 to 14–15 days. Therefore, during this period it is better to cover the bed with oilcloth so that a dry crust does not form. Young snakehead sprouts are quite resistant to short-term drops in temperature, but long-term cooling down to -1...-2 °C will destroy them, so it is better to focus on local climatic conditions when sowing.
At the initial stages, the snakehead develops slowly, so it is important to ensure that the plantings are not overgrown with weeds, suppressing the seedlings, and to water them on time. Further, the bushes grow more rapidly, and competitors for moisture and feeding area become fearless for them. And after two to two and a half months, the snakehead begins to bloom.
Snakehead can be propagated by seeds. © Krzysztof Ziarnek
Healing properties
The plant contains:
- essential oils,
- flavonoids,
- flavonoid acids,
- coumarins,
- tannin and vitamins.
Its seeds are rich in stearic, linoleic, palmitic, linolenic acids, and the root is rich in the following useful micro and macroelements:
- zinc;
- magnesium;
- potassium;
- iron.
However, the rhizome, unlike the aerial part, is rarely used for treatment. Dragonhead herb is actively used in folk medicine, especially in Tibet and India. Doctors loved it for its healing properties.
It acts as a sedative, analgesic and antispasmodic agent. This drug also increases appetite and improves the functioning of the digestive system.
Herbal infusion is used in the treatment of tachycardia, migraines, dental and headache spasms and for the prevention of viral diseases.
For external use, the plant is suitable for healing purulent wounds, as it has healing properties.
Effect of snakehead on sexual health
According to studies, it has been proven that snakehead affects the functioning of cortisol and cortisone produced in the adrenal cortex.
It has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body, increases its energy, fights disorders of the hormonal function of the ovaries and diseases associated with impaired metabolism.
To identify the beneficial properties of the plant, experiments were conducted on animals. During the experiment, immature mice that drank the snakehead infusion experienced an acceleration of the ovulation process.
According to the experience, we can conclude: it affects a woman’s sexual health. Helping with premenstrual syndrome, it has a sedative and estrogenic effect.
Snakehead is used to prevent the above diseases.
An infusion is made from it, which requires grated raw materials and hot water. After mixing the ingredients, let the broth brew for 15 minutes. Take this infusion 3 times a day, 100 ml.
If it turns out to be very concentrated for you, place one teaspoon of snakehead in a teapot and pour boiling water over it. This tea is an ideal drink after meals or before bed.
Effect on the genitourinary system
The plant is actively used in the treatment of diseases of the genitourinary tract. To prevent them, prepare an infusion for sitz baths.
Prepare 200 g of finished raw materials. Place it in a bucket, pour boiling water over it and let it brew for 20 minutes. After filtering the broth, cool it to 40 C.
Now he is ready to undergo procedures within a quarter of an hour.
The essential oil contains citral, which prevents the development of fungus and harmful bacteria. It actively fights tuberculosis and gynecological inflammation. In the second case, the infusion is used for the therapeutic and prophylactic procedure of douching or bathing.
For patients with kidney inflammation, a decoction from the above-ground part of the plant will help. It also produces impressive results in pediatric treatments.
To make this decoction, take some snakehead and a glass of hot water. After mixing them, place on low heat and simmer covered for 5 minutes.
Cool the resulting broth and strain. After this, it is ready to eat. Take this drug before meals 3 times a day.
Effect on the respiratory tract
Botanists conducted experiments and carefully studied how the plant affects the human respiratory tract.
They have proven that essential oils have a beneficial effect on the trachea and longitudinal muscles. Therefore, the infusion is also good for acute bronchitis, tracheobronchitis and other respiratory diseases.
To prevent them, the following mixture of 3 tablespoons of raw materials and 3 liters of boiling water helps. If you breathe over its steam for 10 minutes, a person will feel light.
And pouring the infusion in the bathhouse, you will feel a pleasant aroma that will have a beneficial effect on the body.
Prevention of infectious diseases
Preparations from snakehead contain a group of substances that have a regulating effect on the immune system.
But this immunomodulating effect is most effective when using raw materials obtained during the flower formation stage. Since a small amount of essential oil is formed during this period, its effect is explained by other active substances.
Therefore, tea from such a miracle plant is recommended for patients who have suffered from infectious diseases. A decoction is made from an unflowered plant.
It will help a person overcome stress and tension, and cope with infection. It is also good because when it is taken, there is no stimulation of the central nervous system and increased blood pressure.
Useful properties of snakehead
Snakehead is a healing plant. Has a beneficial effect on the digestive system. Normalizes heartbeat. Treats migraine. Relieves spasms. Calms inflammatory processes. Useful for colds.
Its decoction is used to “rinse out” toothache. Compresses heal bruises. Crushed leaves are used to treat purulent wounds. Poultices relieve rheumatic pain. The tincture increases appetite.
Dragonhead tea is used to strengthen the nervous system and treat gastrointestinal disorders caused by stress. The decoction is used for relaxing baths.
For medicinal purposes, snakehead is collected at the very beginning of flowering. Collect flowers and leaves. The collected mass is dried in a shaded, well-ventilated place. Packed and put away for storage.
To use snakehead for medicinal purposes, its flowers and leaves are collected. © blackbirdrise
Use of snakehead in cooking and folk medicine
This plant, thanks to its beneficial qualities, has established itself in both folk medicine and cooking. It is often used for cosmetic purposes. Exquisite and expensive perfumes are made on its basis.
This spicy herb is added to soups and marinades, main courses and various salads. It is even added to drinks and confectionery.
Only snakehead leaves contain an exquisite aroma, which is why they are used in the culinary industry.
It is used as an independent spice, as well as as part of various mixes.
You should know that during heat treatment all the beneficial qualities of the plant are lost, so it is usually placed in a dish almost before serving.
In medicine, snakehead is used in the form of infusions, teas, decoctions and tinctures. This remedy is used internally for:
- increased heart rate and cardiac arrhythmias;
- colds and inflammatory diseases;
- neuralgic pain;
- disorders of the digestive system to improve appetite.
Snakehead is used externally in the form of lotions and compresses for:
- bruises and abrasions;
- wounds and burns;
- toothache;
- rheumatism.
Infusion of snakehead
To prepare a healing infusion from this spice, you will need:
- dry snakehead herb - one tablespoon;
- clean water - one glass.
Pour boiling water over the herb and leave for fifteen minutes. It is recommended to drink it three times a day, half a glass.
This infusion effectively relieves fatigue and increased tension, calms frayed nerves and relieves pain.
Blueberry tea
You can make a delicious and aromatic warming tea based on snakehead. For this you will need:
- clean water - one liter;
- snakehead - two to three tablespoons;
- cranberry juice – 0.5 cups;
- honey - one tablespoon.
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Infuse the plant in boiling water and add the remaining ingredients to the infusion. Mix thoroughly and strain. This infusion is usually consumed hot.
Snakehead on the table
Despite the fact that snakehead is most often spoken of as a medicinal herb, there are a number of varieties included in the State. register of selection achievements. This is a vegetable snakehead - “Gorynych” , “Gorgon” , “Albion” . During the budding period, their leaves and shoots are recommended for use in food, fresh, in salads, and dried, as a seasoning for vegetable dishes, borscht, soups, meat and fish. As a flavoring agent for teas, compotes, kvass, homemade wine, canned tomatoes and cucumbers.
There are also two technical varieties of snakehead, from which essential oil is obtained. These are “Aroma 1” and “Aroma 2” , bred in Moldova. As a technical crop, snakehead can be found in the Krasnodar region, Crimea, the Volga region, Transcaucasia and southwestern Ukraine.
Chemical composition of snakehead
The medicinal properties of the herb thyme-flowered snakehead are determined by the substances contained in its juice. The plant contains the following components:
- organic and tannic acids - oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic;
- microelements – magnesium, zinc, potassium, iron;
- essential oils;
- sugars – glucose, fructose;
- glutamic and aspartic amino acids;
- alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids.
Important! The bulk of microelements are concentrated in the rhizomes of the plant, and vitamins and essential oils are in the green parts and buds.
Seeds of snakehead thyme are rich in organic acids and vegetable oil
Application
The snakehead contains in the green mass 19.7% dry matter, 1.9% sugars, from 42.3 to 152.6 mg/100 g of ascorbic acid, up to 9.15 mg/100 g of β-carotene. Essential oil in the herb contains up to 0.2% by wet weight and up to 0.6% by dry weight. The oil consists mainly of citral (up to 60%), geraniol and nerol.
Snakehead is cultivated as an essential oil crop in the southern regions of Russia; it is also found as a weed. It grows well in all climate zones.
Snakehead greens are used in fresh and dried forms. The entire above-ground mass of the plant has a unique aroma. The aroma of dried leaves intensifies after two to three weeks of storage in a tightly sealed container. The essential oil gives them a pleasant lemon scent with a mint-caramel tint. It is used in the food industry for flavoring products, in particular soft drinks, in the alcoholic beverage industry for the preparation of cognac, in the wine industry for the production of vermouth, as well as in perfumery and cosmetics, and in the soap industry. The smell of the snakehead repels some harmful insects.
Fresh and dry leaves and flowers are added as a seasoning to meat, fish and vegetable dishes, salads, soups and even sausages and pies; they are used to flavor kvass, fruit drinks and other drinks, and are brewed instead of tea. Added to black tea, snakehead gives it a subtle aroma with hints of lemon and rose. Dry leaves are recommended for spicy mixtures, replacing black and allspice; fresh and dry leaves are also used for pickling and canning cucumbers, tomatoes and watermelons. Snakehead has medicinal properties. In folk medicine, it is used as a sedative and analgesic for headaches, colds, neuralgia, migraines, rapid heartbeat, as an anticonvulsant, herbal compresses for rheumatism and bruises. Crushed fresh leaves accelerate the healing of purulent wounds. It is also used to stimulate appetite and improve digestion, as a carminative and antispasmodic, tonic and astringent. In Tibetan medicine, the entire aerial part of the plant is used for hepatitis, gastritis, nephritis and stomatitis. Snakehead also helps with toothache.
The snakehead is an excellent honey plant. From 1 hectare of crops it produces 300 kg of aromatic honey with medicinal qualities. In addition, the smell of snakehead attracts bees, and the plant itself has a calming effect on them, similar to lemon balm. On a personal plot it can also be grown as an ornamental plant. It captivates with the simplicity of its culture and unpretentiousness.
Uses of snakehead essential oil
The essential oil obtained from the plant is used in cosmetology and the perfume industry. The delicate lemon aroma with a light note of lemon balm cannot leave you indifferent. The essential oil has the property of long-lasting aromatization. Helps with insomnia, nervous disorders, restless sleep. Used to scent rooms. For use in cosmetology, you can make the oil yourself. To do this, you need olive oil and fresh snakehead foliage. Dried raw materials can also be used, but the aroma will be less bright and persistent. Plant materials are crushed and added to oil for subsequent extraction. The oil is infused in a dark place for about 15 days. After this, the leaves are removed, the oil is filtered and applied. This oil has wound healing, antifungal and antiseptic properties. Can be used for massage. Well softens rough skin. Moisturizes dry skin. Used for skin diseases.
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Description of snakehead
Snakehead is a large predatory fish. It grows up to 1.5 meters and weighs about 7 kilograms. There were individuals weighing up to 30 kilograms.
Description of the predator:
- The body is elongated, muscular, snake-colored, and covered with mucus.
- The head is flattened above and below.
- The eyes are bulging and located on the sides.
- The mouth is large, lowered, and opens strongly. It contains sharp teeth.
- The tail is small and rounded.
- Dorsal fin – extends from head to tail.
A special feature of the snakehead is the ability to breathe atmospheric air. It is able to survive when a reservoir temporarily dries out, but not more than five days. With the help of its cylindrical slimy body and respiratory organs, a representative of the species can move across the grass to a neighboring body of water. There is evidence that during drought, individuals can make a cocoon to temporarily wait out.
The ability to breathe air is associated with the presence of the epibranchial organ, as well as air sacs. They accumulate oxygen, which is distributed throughout the body through the vessels.
Snakehead. Growing and care.
This plant is unpretentious in the garden, but prefers moderately humid, moderately fertile and sunny places - in such conditions the content of essential oils in its green parts increases. Since the snakehead is resistant to cold, it is sown (depending on weather conditions) in late April - early May in furrows to a depth of about 2 cm. By the way, in order to have greenery all summer long, the plant can be sown in batches every 10 days. Shoots usually appear after 10-12 days. At first, treat them carefully in terms of care, because they are in no hurry to grow. When weeding, leave 15-20 cm between plantings. The distance between the rows is somewhat larger - approximately 30-35 cm. To decorate the area, you can use a more dense planting. To dry, the above-ground part of the plant must be cut off during the flowering phase. It is best to hang the stems tied in bunches under the roof or in the attic out of reach of the sun and moisture. Well-dried and crushed snakehead stems, like other aromatic plants, are stored in a tightly closed glass or plastic jar. This raw material retains its properties for at least 2 years. By the way, the mint-lemon aroma of snakehead is significantly stronger than, for example, lemon balm or catnip.
MOLDAVAN SNAKEHEAD for migraines and headaches
Moldovan snakehead (Turkish balm) is a perennial herbaceous plant widely distributed in Eurasia. It is often confused with lemon balm . These plants are close relatives and are somewhat similar in their healing properties. The main active ingredient of snakehead essential oil is citral .
Thanks to it, the plant has a pronounced sedative effect, lowers blood pressure, and relieves eye strain. The snakehead herb is used both for external use (compresses, decoctions for baths) and for internal use, making preparations from it that are effective for headaches, including migraines, nervous tension and insomnia.
- Infusion : 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of herbs into 250 ml of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, strain, take 1/3 cup 3 times a day during and after a migraine attack for a week.
- Decoction for bath and compress: pour a glass of herb into 3 liters of water, boil for 10 minutes, strain, pour into a bath (water temperature 35-37 ° C), which is taken for 20 minutes as a soothing agent. For a compress, soak a towel in the chilled broth and place it on your head during a migraine attack for 15-20 minutes.
Contraindications to taking snakehead preparations: exacerbation of stomach and duodenal ulcers, hypotension.
Drooping snakehead - medicinal herb, application, description, distribution, preparation, recipes
• What does a drooping snakehead look like?
Drooping snakehead, translated as Dracocephalum nutans, belongs to herbaceous plants, the stem of this representative is branched, oblong-ovate leaves grow on it, and you can also see long racemose inflorescences, they end at the top of the stem in a dense whorl, which consists of flowers colored in blue-lilac color. The flowering period occurs at the beginning of June and lasts until July inclusive.
• Where does drooping snakehead grow?
This representative of the plant world is found in the European part of our country, and also grows in Ukraine and Belarus. The drooping snakehead grows in sparse forests, mainly pine and deciduous; in addition, it is seen in steppe meadows, on fallow lands, and also near some residential premises.
The snakehead is valued for its grass and seeds; they are medicinal raw materials from which various healing potions are prepared. The aerial part contains essential and fatty oils, flavonoids, alkaloids, and coumarins.
• Collection and preparation of drooping snakehead
To harvest grass, you will need a sickle or sharp pruning shears; with their help, you can cut the required amount of this plant. After which they begin to sort it, for this purpose the most darkened and defective stems and leaves are removed.
Next, they begin to cut the grass into equal parts, after which it is laid out in an even layer on a tray, which should be placed in a well-ventilated place to provide the grass with the necessary ventilation.
Every day it is necessary to turn the grass so that it does not have time to become damp and rot. When the raw materials have dried thoroughly, they are placed in prepared cardboard boxes or placed in cloth bags made of cotton fabric.
Bags of dry grass are stored in a well-ventilated area where there is no excessive humidity. The raw materials should remain there for no more than two years, since this is the time period for their sale. They use it as needed, preparing medicinal drugs from it.
• Application of drooping snakehead
Drooping snakehead is used to treat certain diseases; it is quite actively used in folk medicine. From the herb you can prepare a healing infusion that helps cope with throat diseases, it is effective for female bleeding, if you add a small amount of fir sulfur to it, then it can be used if you have a history of pulmonary tuberculosis.
In addition, an infusion prepared from the herb of drooping snakehead is taken in case of headache. In Tibetan medicine, it is customary to prescribe it for stomatitis, gastritis and enteritis, as well as for inflammation of the kidneys.
• Recipe for drooping snakehead infusion
To prepare a healing infusion of drooping snakehead, you will need the herb of this medicinal plant in an amount of 15 grams; first, it is thoroughly crushed in a special ceramic mortar, and then 200 milliliters of boiling water is poured into a container.
The container with the drug should be covered with a lid and allowed to brew; after a while you can begin to filter the infusion, after about forty minutes, when the liquid has cooled. To do this, you will need to stock up on gauze cloth; you need to fold it in two layers, and then cover some container with it.
Then the prepared infusion should be poured into a clean container, and the settled grass should be squeezed out thoroughly; the settled cakes can be thrown away. Next, the drug is used for its intended purpose, for example, it can be taken 30 milliliters up to four times a day if the patient has a headache; it is better to carry out this procedure before meals.
It is recommended to store the prepared infusion in the refrigerator and take it only when necessary, remembering to immediately put it in a cool place, since at room temperature the drug can deteriorate quite quickly, in particular, it will ferment and become unsuitable for further use. Its shelf life should not exceed three days.
Article on the topic: Sweet Lippia - beneficial properties, description
• Recipe for drooping snakehead decoction
To prepare the decoction, you will need 45 grams of crushed herbs from this representative of the plant world; the raw material must be thoroughly crushed, after which it is poured with 400 milliliters of boiling water. Then the container with the drug is placed in a water bath for about five minutes.
In this case, you can cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to minimum. After which the container is removed from the stove and left for two hours. Next, when the broth has cooled, you can filter it through cheesecloth. Take the drug 50 milliliters up to three times a day, preferably heated.
Such a drug will be useful in the presence of angina pectoris, it will be effective for headaches, as well as gastritis, pulmonary tuberculosis, asthenic conditions, and respiratory infections.
The prepared decoction should be stored only in the refrigerator and for no more than five days, since after this period the liquid will begin to deteriorate, which will deprive it of its medicinal properties and make it unsuitable for further use.
Before you decide to prepare your own medicine from drooping snakehead, you need to consult with a qualified and knowledgeable doctor so as not to harm your health by using such herbal medicines.
The snakehead is a plant from a fairy tale. Description of the properties and cultivation of snakehead
The name of this plant is not entirely standard. We are accustomed to simpler and less scary plant names. But this plant got its name because of the appearance of the flowers. Its fully opened flowers look like a dragon's open mouth, and the bright blue, ultramarine color cannot make them invisible on your site. Therefore, if you want to surprise your friends or neighbors, this plant will take a strong place in your summer cottage.
What does snakehead treat?
The properties of snakehead plant materials were studied and biological activity in a number of diseases was observed. Snakehead can be actively used to treat the genitourinary system, in the form of internal infusions and external baths. It has the ability to stabilize hormonal levels in women during menopause. In the premenstrual phase, snakehead exhibits a calming and stabilizing effect on the nervous system. May exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in inflammatory diseases of the external genitalia. Used in the treatment of gynecological diseases. Used internally to treat kidneys. The snakehead also has analgesic properties. Helps get rid of toothache. Used to relieve migraines, headaches and vascular pain. After a stroke, this plant will help restore vascular permeability and eliminate their fragility. Restores neural connections and patency of brain signals. An infusion of snakehead can be used for broncho-pulmonary diseases. For acute inflammation of the bronchi, severe cough and pneumonia, snakehead will help get rid of pathogenic bacteria. Antiseptic activity is manifested during the healing of wounds, trophic ulcers and bedsores. The use of snakehead tea is possible to improve food digestion and prevent heartburn. If you use the collected plant in the budding phase, its properties will be aimed at increasing immunity and recovery from illnesses. Before the plant blooms, the maximum amount of vitamins and microelements accumulates in it. They provoke restoration and vitaminization of the body after illnesses. Snakehead has the ability to cause allergic reactions, so when first used, it should be used with caution. A skin reaction to a decoction of the plant is possible. Therefore, before using it internally, you can do a skin test. If the area does not turn red and does not itch, then the body’s reaction was successful. There is no need to use snakehead decoction for pregnant women. People with acute inflammation of the intestines and stomach.
