What is Leuzea safflower?
Among the people, Leuzea safflower is better known as rapontik, maral root and bighead. Outwardly, it looks like a thistle. The brown rhizomes are arranged horizontally. They grow many meters in different directions. The flowers of Leuzea safflower are purple or lilac, and the achenes are gray or brown.
It blooms in mid-summer and begins to bear fruit in September. Plantations of the plant are found in Siberia, mountain forests of Altai, on the Sayan ridges, and in Kazakhstan. There is experience in the industrial cultivation of deer root in Ukraine and Central Russia.
Residents of Siberia in the 19th century noticed that maral deer eat the roots of Leuzea during the rut.
This clue from nature has been studied. Zoologists have found that the plant enhances the potency of animals. Leuzea safflower, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which were first mentioned in the works of Academician G.N., a researcher of Siberian traditions. Potanin, according to local residents of this region, can cure fourteen ailments, one of which is loss of strength.
Leuzea in bodybuilding
The remarkable properties of Leuzea safflower are widely used by athletes. Possessing anabolic properties, Leuzea stimulates protein and metabolic processes in the body, increases blood supply, increases physical performance, sensitivity and coordination of movements. In fact, in bodybuilding, Leuzea can be used as a natural doping drug that does not have the negative properties of similar chemical drugs. Sports medicine does not prohibit the use of Leuzea. Athletes use deer root tincture often in the pre-competition period, to stimulate and reach the peak of their capabilities, as well as to recover after physical exertion. With long-term use of the tincture, a surge of strength is felt, and an increase in training weights is possible. Recovery is also faster and less painful due to the fact that the oxidation processes of lactic and pyruvic acid occur faster. Moreover, Leuzea preparations stimulate the development of the capillary network and the expansion of blood vessels. This helps improve blood circulation, reduce the load on the heart, and stabilize the pulse. Maral root tincture is especially good because it is not addictive and does not destroy liver cells.
Composition and nutritional value of Leuzea safflower
Leuzea safflower, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which have been known to traditional healers for a long time, was included in the list of medicinal plants by official medicine in the mid-twentieth century. As a result of numerous studies, scientists have found that it contains the maximum concentration of valuable substances.
Composition of Leuzea safflower
Ascorbic acid | Increases immunity, stimulates the production of adrenal hormones |
Alkoloids | Reduce pain of any origin, have sedative properties |
Anthraquinones | Stimulates the body's defenses |
Inulin | Promotes the absorption of vitamins, regulates lipid metabolism, normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract |
Carotene | Strengthens the immune system, removes toxins |
Resins | Acts as a bactericidal, laxative, antitussive agent |
Essential oil | Removes phlegm, softens cough, relieves fatigue |
Flavonoids | Strengthens the nervous system, makes the walls of blood vessels and capillaries elastic |
Gum | Reduces cholesterol concentration |
Organic acids | Have a tonic effect |
Protein | Strengthens muscle tissue |
Catechins | Prevents the development of malignant tumors |
Macro and microelements | Protect the body from the adverse effects of the external environment |
Steroids | Promote the production of hormones, regulate mineral metabolism, increase libido |
Lipids | Participate in the synthesis of hormones, strengthen the nervous system |
Saponins | Promotes the removal of phlegm, eliminates inflammation |
Coumarins | Acts as a diuretic and thins the blood |
Vitamin E | Reduces symptoms of menopause |
Wax | Has bactericidal properties |
Iron | Participates in the production of hemoglobin |
Magnesium | Strengthens the cardiac and vascular systems |
Manganese | Regulates the functioning of the central nervous system, participates in the synthesis of insulin |
Copper | Saturates body cells with oxygen |
Cobalt | Participates in the process of hematopoiesis |
Zinc | Provides protein metabolism, stimulates the reproductive system |
Chromium | Reduces cholesterol and blood sugar concentrations |
Leuzea safflower, whose beneficial properties and contraindications are due to its rich chemical composition, has great nutritional value. In the mid-twentieth century in the USSR, non-alcoholic tonic lemonade “Sayany” began to be produced from plant raw materials.
Studies conducted with the participation of 902 workers whose diet was introduced to the drink showed that in all subjects, after 14-21 days of use, the vegetative-vascular system normalized. The general physical and neuropsychic condition has improved markedly, depressive states have disappeared. The workers' ability to work increased, and the craving for alcohol decreased.
At the end of the study, the ability of Leuzea safflower to increase sexual potency was documented for the first time. The high nutritional value of the plant has attracted the attention of livestock farmers. It is successfully used as a biologically active feed additive when raising cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and poultry.
The livestock industry produces premixes and feed with the addition of Leuzea safflower, hydroalcoholic extracts and infusions for drinking.
Practice has shown that preparations with this plant significantly intensify the average daily growth of animals and birds, and also reduce their mortality. The ecdysteroid contained in Leuzea provides the body with strong immunity and the ability to adapt to extreme industrial conditions.
At home, you can feed the grass fresh or make flour from its leaves. Grass feeding increases protein production in animals, which stimulates their growth. At the same time, the phytomass is absolutely non-toxic and safe for all types of livestock, fur-bearing animals and birds. It can be used in any quantity without risk.
Feeding fresh leuzea to cows and goats improves milk yield and increases the fat content of milk. In addition, feeding from this plant improves the reproductive function of animals. It can be concluded that the medicinal properties of the plant and its nutritional value are used in many areas of human activity.
Indications
Doctors advise taking root extract in the following cases:
- with physical and mental exhaustion;
- with decreased potency;
- premenstrual syndrome;
- secondary infertility;
- diabetes mellitus;
- anemia.
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Leuzea is used as a nootropic and tonic medicine. Along with this, it is used against depression, in the form of a multivitamin and stimulant drug.
Beneficial properties of Leuzea safflower
Maral root contains so many biostimulants - phytoecdysteroids - like no other plant on Earth, which makes it a unique source of vital energy, physical and sexual strength. In 1960 of the last century, Soviet scientists made a discovery that led to the use of remedies from the roots of Leuzea in professional sports.
A high concentration of ecdysteroids, which are natural doping agents, was found in the underground part of the plant. Preparations based on Leuzea, later called the “Russian secret,” were officially introduced into the diet of major league athletes.
Scientists have proven that this plant improves protein biosynthesis in the muscles, as well as the liver and kidneys, which leads to an anabolic effect, allowing one to achieve high athletic achievements. However, a high concentration of ecdysteroids in the blood does not have a negative effect on health.
Researchers at the Siberian Academy of Sciences studied the effect of the plant on the nootropic functions of the human body (memory and thinking). It turned out that taking just a few drops per day of Leuzea extract improves concentration 5 times.
The figure lists the beneficial properties and uses of Leuzea safflower.
Maral root gained great popularity in the 80s and 90s, when its adaptogenic properties were studied and the plant’s ability to increase the body’s endurance in extreme conditions, with increased physical and psychological stress, was proven.
In 2003, Russia officially allowed the use of Leuzea safflower for the manufacture of medical preparations, and in 2008 the government lifted all restrictions on the production of food and dietary supplements from this plant. Studies have shown that Leuzea safflower does not have the disadvantages of other natural adaptogens and their synthetic analogues.
At the same time, even small doses of drugs have an effect, while medium and large doses do not have a negative effect on the body.
Remedies made from maral root can be used by both male and female persons over 12 years of age at any time of the year to relieve psychasthenic symptoms, get rid of neurotic conditions, fear, fear, and anxiety. Traditional medicine practices relieving the effects of alcohol intoxication and food poisoning using a decoction of Leuzea.
Herbalists recommend taking a decoction to quickly heal bones in case of fractures. The properties of Leuzea are manifested in the improvement of processes associated with protein synthesis and energy expenditure. This allows you not only to eliminate muscle fatigue during intense physical activity, but also to burn excess fat.
Russian psychiatrists studied the effect of Leuzea safflower on the sexual function of men and increased libido in women. The researchers concluded that the use of preparations from this plant had the greatest effect on men and women aged 45 to 60 years.
In patients aged 25-40 years, after a sixty-day course, an improvement in sexual life also occurred, but not as noticeably. Scientists from Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic, in their scientific works on maral root, noted a change in the quality of sperm, an increase in sperm motility, and an improvement in the fullness of penile erection in subjects who took preparations from it.
Due to the fact that Leuzea is a natural adaptogen, it can be used to increase the body's resistance to strenuous physical activity and the adverse influence of the external environment.
For the female body
Leuzea safflower, thanks to its rich composition, can help women:
- improve reproductive function;
- increase libido;
- regulate the menstrual cycle;
- relieve pain, including menstrual pain;
- relieve tension and stress;
- recover from depression;
- restore appetite;
- cheer up;
- speed up metabolism;
- get rid of excess weight;
- tidy up your skin and hair.
This plant has an advantage over medications, as it has a mild effect on the female body. However, while taking medications from it, you need to monitor your blood pressure, as it may increase.
The vasodilating property of Leuzea should be taken into account by women with glaucoma, and the plant’s ability to thin the blood can harm those who suffer from reduced blood clotting.
For the male body
Since ancient times, healers and shamans of Siberia have treated disorders of the reproductive system in men with maral root. Scientists have studied this ability of the plant. Research has revealed the ability of Leuzea to enhance the production of testosterone, which improves potency, increases sexual desire and gives men courage.
It has been proven that long-term use of Leuzea remedies leads to an increase in body hair and a change in the timbre of the voice in men. Preparations made from maral root can harm people suffering from diseases such as chronic renal failure, arrhythmia, and high blood pressure.
For the child's body
Children under 12 years of age are prohibited from using preparations from Leuzea safflower. Treatment with preparations made from maral root that do not contain alcohol is recommended for middle and high school students if they have problems concentrating or overwork.
An indication for the use of maral root for children over 12 years of age may be the need to strengthen the immune system in the autumn-winter period, with general weakness of the body, apathy, lethargy, and depression.
Leuzea contraindications
Leuzea preparations have a number of contraindications. People suffering from hypertension, due to the ability of Leuzea to increase blood pressure, those with chronic liver diseases, with high nervous excitability, with epilepsy, and during the acute course of infectious diseases need to be careful. Pregnant and nursing mothers and children under 12 years of age should also abstain. Due to the stimulating properties of Leuzea, preparations with it are recommended to be taken in the first half of the day.
Side effects occur quite rarely when taking maral root; they manifest themselves in the form of allergic phenomena, which may include dry mouth, nausea, headaches, intestinal upset, and irritability. In case of overdose, side effects may intensify. You also need to know that when taking other central nervous system stimulants, such as coffee, at the same time, their effect is enhanced.
What does Leuzea safflower help with?
Leuzea safflower is used in official and folk medicine for the following purposes:
- rejuvenation of the body, a surge of energy;
- strengthening the immune system;
- increasing potency in men and libido in women;
- alleviating the symptoms of menopause;
- improving cerebral circulation;
- treatment of depressive, neurotic and psychasthenic conditions;
- neutralization of pain syndrome of any origin;
- eliminating the consequences of alcohol intake and food poisoning;
- normalization of the menstrual cycle;
- restoration of body functions after a protracted illness;
- increased blood pressure;
- reducing sugar levels;
- acceleration of bone fusion;
- slowing the growth of tumors, including malignant ones.
The roots, rhizomes and leaves of the plant have healing properties. Leuzea safflower seeds have not found use either in folk or official medicine. Substances contained in the underground part of the plant help improve the tone and protective functions of the body.
Herbalists and pharmacists prepare decoctions, tablets, oils, and extracts from the roots that increase potency, libido, stamina and activity. A powder is made from Leuzea leaves, which is widely used in sports and bodybuilding, as it improves the strength and speed of the body.
Both parts of the plant have a high concentration of iron and vitamin A, so they are effectively used to improve blood count. Scientists note that the substances contained in Leuzea safflower stimulate the body’s hidden reserves, so rejuvenation occurs at the cellular level.
You can use preparations from this plant at any time of the year. The vitamin-rich composition will help resist viral and colds, while the high concentration of carotene, macro and microelements will help alleviate the symptoms of food poisoning.
Official medicine offers a wide selection of drugs in different forms of release. One of the popular preparations is liquid extract of maral root in 70% ethyl alcohol. The greatest effect from taking it is observed in people prone to fatigue, decreased ability to work, suffering from insomnia, vegetative-vascular dystonia and sexual impotence.
Leuzea extracts have proven themselves to be excellent in the treatment of heart disease and hypotension. Doctors also recommend taking them in the complex treatment of diabetes. Liquid extracts from this plant are prescribed to military personnel and athletes as an effective adaptogenic medicine that helps support the body in extreme conditions.
Take the alcohol extract 10 drops three times a day, half an hour before eating. The course of treatment lasts, depending on the indications, from 14 to 21 days. If the need arises, re-administration is carried out after a ten-day break.
Pharmacists also offer tablets made from maral root. They are recommended for athletes to take during intense training and before competitions. Leuzea's ability to remove lactic acid from the muscles significantly relieves pain, which makes it possible to increase the load.
Maral root tablets are a tonic, restorative drug containing the natural steroid ecdisthene, which helps dilate blood vessels and increase the speed of blood flow. The high level of ecdisthene in tablet preparations effectively copes with problems of low potency, so they are recommended to be taken for sexual impotence and to improve reproductive function.
The standard course of treatment is 2 weeks (can be extended up to 21 days). The recommended dose is 10-15 mg per day.
Another popular remedy is essential oil from Leuzea leaves. Most often it is used for aromatherapy, cold inhalations, therapeutic baths, massages, however, oral administration is also possible. The lipids and organic acids contained in the oil help relieve tension, fatigue, irritability, and headaches.
A high concentration of alkaloids normalizes sleep and wakefulness. The magnesium contained in Leuzea oil strengthens the heart muscle, and flavonoids have a beneficial effect on blood vessels and the nervous system. For this purpose, in 5 full art. spoons of jam or honey need to add 8-10 drops of oil. You need to take 1 teaspoon twice a day.
Essential oil effectively eliminates hangover symptoms. To do this, take a glass of tomato or orange juice and add 1-2 drops of the drug to it. Juice can be replaced with any fermented milk products (kefir, yogurt, ayran).
A warm bath will help you relieve stress and relax. It will be enough to add 3 drops of essential oil mixed with sea salt or milk to the water. It is recommended to take a bath for no more than half an hour.
Another pharmaceutical preparation is Leuzea powder. It is recommended to use it to restore the body after protracted illnesses or stressful situations. The powder is made from young shoots of the plant. It contains 65 ecdysteroids, 23% protein, 40 microelements and about two dozen different vitamins. The drug is completely harmless even in large doses.
This remedy is taken in dry form (dissolved under the tongue), but you can brew it as a herbal tea. The prophylactic dose is 25 mg per dose. The therapeutic dose reaches 50 mg per day. Athletes typically consume 100 mg or more of Leuzea powder.
Leuzea tincture is taken to improve the fullness of penile erection, increase immunity, and relieve fatigue. The course of treatment lasts from two weeks to one month. The recommended dose is 4-5 drops per dose, three times a day, an hour before eating. Leuzea honey is also a healing agent. It tones the body, strengthens the heart muscle and normalizes the vegetative-vascular system.
Recipes for products with Leuzea safflower
Decoction to increase potency
To prepare the product, add 1 tbsp to 250 ml of purified water. spoon of roots, boil the mixture for 15-20 minutes. During this time, some of the liquid will evaporate. After removing from the heat, the drink must be left to infuse for 30 minutes, then strain. Before use, add as much boiled water to the decoction as needed to make 250 ml again.
You need to take 80 ml three times a day 15 minutes before eating. The decoction cannot be prepared for future use, as after a day it will partially lose its healing properties.
Infusion to improve performance and relieve fatigue
This remedy differs from a decoction in that the raw material is not boiled, but is poured with boiling water and infused in a thermos. It is advisable to prepare no more than a daily dose, as a fresh drink is more effective.
The preparation method is simple: 1.5 tbsp. spoons of crushed roots and rhizomes of Leuzea pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. Leave for an hour. The infusion should be taken 5 minutes before meals, 1 tbsp. spoon 3 times a day. The dosage should not be exceeded, as this can lead to increased excitability.
Infusion for the prevention of viral diseases
This is the simplest recipe for making an infusion. You need 2-3 tbsp. Place spoons of Leuzea roots in a thermos, add hot water (0.5 l) and leave overnight. You can take 1-2 tbsp from morning to 19 o'clock. spoons. The next evening prepare a new infusion. The course of treatment lasts 1-2 months.
Tincture to improve erection and strengthen immunity
To prepare the tincture you will need 1 tbsp. spoon of dried roots, 1 glass of 70 percent ethyl alcohol. The ingredients must be mixed, placed in a glass container and kept in a dark place for 21 days. The tincture should be strained before use. Take 5-7 drops 3 times a day half an hour before eating.
Tincture of Leuzea leaves for gastrointestinal diseases and to improve metabolism
Fresh or dry leaves of the plant need to be crushed and poured with vodka in a ratio of 1:10. Leave in a dark place for 10 days. Take the tincture 20 drops 3 times a day before meals.
Elixir for athletes and bodybuilders
To prepare this remedy, you need to buy Leuzea extract at the pharmacy, dilute it with vodka in a ratio of 1:10 and shake well. The resulting tincture should be consumed 30 drops three times a day.
Extract for the treatment of anemia and loss of strength
To get a concentrated product, you need 5 tbsp. spoons of Leuzea roots pour 200 ml of vodka. Stand in a dark place for three weeks, then strain. Take 15-20 drops per day. This product contains alcohol, so it is prohibited for use by children, drivers, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people suffering from alcohol addiction.
Libido booster
To prepare the drink, you need to add 20 drops of alcoholic extract from Leuzea to 100 ml of red wine. Take as needed.
Leuzea tea for colds and viral diseases
This healing drink is prepared from fresh plant flowers (3-4 pcs.) or 2 teaspoons of dried roots. The raw materials should be placed in a thermos or teapot, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes. For the purpose of prevention, it is recommended to drink 1 glass of tea per day, and during illness - at least three.
Decoction for headaches, swelling and joint diseases
To prepare it, 2 teaspoons of fresh or dry Leuzea leaves need to be poured into 300 ml of cold water. Leave in a water bath for half an hour, then leave and strain. Divide the decoction into 3 parts and drink throughout the day.
Mouth and throat rinse
If you have problems with gums or a sore throat, you need to add 1 teaspoon of alcohol tincture from Leuzea to 200 ml of water at room temperature. Rinse your mouth or throat 5 times a day. This remedy also helps eliminate bad breath.
Leuzea compress for washing non-healing wounds
You need to take 100 ml of isotonic sodium chloride solution and add 1 tbsp to it. a spoonful of water-based Leuzea tincture. Moisten a sterile bandage and apply to the wound for 30 minutes.
Warm compress for joint or muscle pain
Add 5 drops of Leuzea essential oil to a glass of warm water. Soak a gauze bandage in this liquid and apply it to the sore joint. To enhance the effect, you need to wrap the sore spot with plastic wrap and insulate it with a woolen scarf. This compress should be left on for at least two hours.
Cold compress for headaches
To prepare the product, add 1 drop of Leuzea oil to 100 ml of very cold water. Soak a cotton cloth in this solution, apply a bandage to your forehead and lie in a darkened room for 30-40 minutes.
Wet inhalations
To carry out the procedure, you need to add a few drops of Leuzea essential oil to a bowl or pan with 0.5 liters of hot water. Close your eyes and breathe in the steam for 5 minutes.
Application of maral root
When conducting a biochemical analysis, a whole range of elements necessary for the body was found in the root of the deer: essential oil, carotene, inulin and a number of other substances. These microelements are components of medicines.
The use of maral root is justified for inter-seasonal depression, exhaustion of the nervous system and hypotension. Leuzea extract improves blood flow in the circulatory system, increases blood pressure, and lowers blood sugar.
An alcoholic tincture of the root is recommended for men to increase vitality, it improves digestion and increases the formation of testosterone. Maral root extract is used to improve impotence in men.
Biological active substances from the plant are widely used to build muscle mass. Root extract accelerates metabolic processes dependent on protein synthesis and energy distribution in the intercellular space.
This, in turn, has a positive effect on muscle function and reduces their tension during physical activity. This process also directly affects dieting: it burns excess fat in the human body.
In women, marala herb is a good remedy for regular maintenance of sexual activity and eliminates frigidity. In addition, it improves reproductive functions (the possibility of conceiving and having a baby).
Medicines are used to improve digestion in the body and restore the menstrual cycle. It is also successfully used to restore strength after long-term illnesses. Leuzea is often prescribed for loss of strength, loss of appetite and to improve mood.
Pharmacy drugs
Pharmacies sell alcohol tinctures and various remedies of Leuzea soflora, in tablet form “Levzea P”, and also sell maral root in powder form.
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Decoction
The dried root needs to be crushed, then 10 g. Pour a glass of boiling water over this powder and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes in a water bath. Then you need to let it sit and drink 1/3 glass 3 times during the day before meals.
The treatment period lasts 2-3 weeks, after a break, if necessary, it can be repeated.
Alcohol tincture
To prepare a tincture of maral root, you need to add 50 grams. root in a jar and pour vodka or diluted alcohol 100 g. Then leave for two weeks in a place protected from sunlight.
It should be consumed before meals, 25 drops, after shaking the contents well. In this dosage, the tincture relaxes, strengthens the immune system, and reduces vitamin deficiency.
It is not recommended to use maral root extract for more than 30 days. It is better to take a break for 14 days and then undergo the necessary treatment again.
Leuzea infusion (extract) on water
10 grams of powder obtained from the root are poured with water, about about a liter. Leave for at least 8-12 hours, and then consume three times a day before meals.
The extract, according to herbalists, is more valuable in its content than the decoction, since the nutritional elements of the plant enter the human body in their natural form.
Interaction with other drugs
If liquid extracts from Leuzea safflower are drunk together with organic and chemical products, then there may be undesirable effects in the human body. With caution, and only under the supervision of doctors, you can use them together with analeptics and stimulants of the central nervous system.
This is due to the fact that these substances contain caffeine and phenamine, which have an active effect on the central nervous system. Doctors also do not recommend using Leuzea remedies along with anticonvulsants, antipsychotics and tranquilizers.
If undesirable symptoms are detected, you must immediately stop treatment and consult a doctor for help. You should not use the drug in the evening, as it may cause insomnia and stimulation of the central nervous system.
Leuzea safflower in cosmetology
Leuzea safflower, whose beneficial properties and contraindications are due to the rich composition of the substances it contains, is widely used in cosmetology.
Mask for hair loss
The substances included in Leuzea promote increased blood flow to the hair roots, so a mask from this plant effectively helps improve their condition. To prepare this remedy you need to take 40 ml of olive or sunflower oil, the yolk of one egg, 3 drops of oil. The ingredients must be mixed, lightly whisked, and applied to dry hair 20-30 minutes before washing.
Hair strengthener
To make your hair silky and not fall out, you need to comb it before going to bed, moistening the teeth of the comb with Leuzea oil. Leuzea safflower is one of the components of anti-aging cosmetics. The vitamin C it contains stimulates the production of collagen, which is necessary for the skin to maintain elasticity and youth.
Skin rejuvenation toner
To prepare it, you need 1 tbsp. Pour a spoonful of plant roots into 1 glass of hot water and keep warm for half an hour. After cooling, the product should be stored in the refrigerator. If you wipe your face and neck with this liquid twice a day, then after a week of use the skin will become elastic and tightened.
Facial compress made from Leuzea leaves
You can remove redness on the skin using dried leaves of Leuzea safflower. To do this, the crushed raw materials need to be filled with warm water. Let it brew and apply the soaked herb to your face. After 5 minutes, you can wash your face with cool water.
Leuzea honey for treating pimples and acne
This natural beekeeping product is applied to problem areas of the skin for 15 minutes. Wash honey off your face with warm water.
Cosmetic ice
The principle of the action of ice on the skin is that there is a sharp narrowing and expansion of blood vessels. This helps improve blood circulation. Using cold exposure can get rid of dark circles under the eyes and puffiness.
To prepare this remedy, you need to make an infusion: add 1 tbsp to 1 glass of boiling water. a spoonful of Leuzea roots. After cooling, strain the solution, pour into ice trays and place in the freezer. You need to move ice cubes over your skin quickly, without lingering in one place. This procedure is usually carried out in the morning or when you need to quickly get your facial skin in order.
Wraps for dermatitis
For this procedure, you need to moisten a towel in a solution prepared from 1 liter of warm water and 20 drops of Leuzea oil.
Leuzea safflower Growing on the site
In the Maral culture, the root grows better on sandy and loamy soils in areas with a slight slope, which ensures the drainage of excess water. Does not tolerate heavy soils with close standing groundwater and areas where there is stagnation of water. Requires well-lit areas for successful growth.
Reproduction
Sowing is carried out in early spring with seeds stratified for 2-3 months. The optimal temperature for seed germination is within 20-30 °C. Seeds are sown to a depth of 1.5-2 cm, the distance between rows is 50-70 cm. Shoots appear in 1.5-2 weeks.
In the first year, only a rosette of basal leaves develops.
Starting from the 2-3rd year of the growing season, the plants bloom and bear fruit. Some plants bloom for the first time only in the fourth year of life. Inflorescences with set seeds must be protected from the invasion of birds, which love to feast on seeds from Leuzea flower baskets. To do this, immediately after flowering, the baskets are tied with a cloth or a piece of gauze.
Care
Maral root or Leuzea is responsive to the application of organic and mineral fertilizers. When preparing the site, add manure and peat manure compost in a dose of 2-3 buckets per 1 m2. During the growing season, from the second year, at the beginning of active growth of plants, fertilizing is done: 10 g of nitrogen, 30 g of phosphorus and 10 g of potassium fertilizers per 1 m2. Care includes weeding, loosening and, if necessary, watering. Roots can be dug starting from the third year of life.
You can place Maral root near the fence, in group plantings against the background of the lawn and in the background of the mixborder.
Harm, contraindications
Leuzea safflower has beneficial properties and does not contain any toxic substances, however, in some cases, treatment with drugs based on it is prohibited or not recommended, as there are contraindications. Pregnant women should absolutely not use maral root products, as they have been proven to affect the development of the fetus.
Breastfeeding is also a contraindication for the use of preparations from Leuzea safflower, since the chemicals contained in the plant can cause sleep disturbances and increased excitability in the child.
It is prohibited to treat children under 12 years of age with maral root products. It is not recommended to use Leuzea products for arrhythmia, chronic kidney and liver diseases, high blood pressure, epilepsy and atherosclerosis.
Use in sports
People have learned to use a remedy made from maral root since ancient times. It increases endurance and restores strength in a short time.
In addition, it is often used by bodybuilding athletes to build muscle mass.
The drugs are used in sports, both during increased physical activity and mental stress (for chess players, drafts players). They increase blood circulation in the brain, speed up metabolism, thereby facilitating the memorization of a large amount of information.
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Leuzea safflower is one of the components in specialized nutrition for athletes. This food helps increase endurance during athletes' training.
In addition, root tincture promotes rapid healing of wounds and promotes faster recovery from injuries. It has a positive effect on athletes during long flights and helps them recover faster.
Collection and storage of Leuzea
For the purpose of preparing medicines, raw materials from Leuzea are harvested after the seeds have ripened. This occurs from late summer until the first frost. Roots and rhizomes that are at least 3 years old must be collected. It is at this age that Leuzea safflower grows a large root system, which has the greatest healing power.
When preparing raw materials, it is important to remember that the thickets of this unique plant are restored slowly , so for every 2-3 meters you need to leave at least one root. The stems should be removed, and the underground part should be cleared of debris, washed thoroughly and left in the sun for a week. At night, it is recommended to put the raw materials indoors in case of rain.
After very large roots have withered, they need to be cut into several parts and sent to dry completely in a dry, warm room with good ventilation or in the attic. You can dry it outdoors under a canopy, but in this case it is very important to monitor the humidity.
Store finished raw materials in paper bags for no more than three years.
Having studied the beneficial properties of Leuzea safflower and its contraindications, you can effectively use it for health purposes, in sports, cooking and cosmetology.
Author: Svetlana Maslennikova
General information:
Leuzea safflower (Rhaponticum carthamoides)
are herbaceous plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. Perennial. The rhizome is woody, shortened, dark brown in color, and has long, fibrous roots.
Leuzea leaves are slightly pointed, alternate, the flowers are usually violet-lilac, quite large, generally collected in a small spherical basket, it is located at the top point of the stem. The fruits are ribbed achenes with tufts.
The flowering time for Leuzea safflower is July-August. The fruits can be collected in September. Leuzea also belongs to the forage plants. Honey plant. The perfume and cosmetics industry uses it in the manufacture of products. Levzeya is also included in wines and balms, and is also used as an additive to soft drinks.