Alisma
Alisma
Alisma (pronounced: /əˈlɪzmə/) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Alismataceae, commonly referred to as the water-plantain family.
Etymology
The term "Alisma" is derived from the Celtic word "alis," meaning "water," in reference to the plant's aquatic habitat.
Description
Alisma plants are typically found in shallow water or on mud flats, and are native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Most species are commonly known as water-plantains. The broad leaves are shaped like those of the plantain, but are not closely related to the plantains of the genus Plantago.
Species
There are about 11 species in the genus, including Alisma plantago-aquatica, Alisma lanceolatum, and Alisma gramineum.
Uses
Alisma species are used as food plants by the larvae of some species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). In traditional Chinese medicine, Alisma is used as a diuretic and to treat various health conditions.
Related Terms
- Alismataceae: The plant family to which Alisma belongs.
- Aquatic plants: Plants that have adapted to living in aquatic environments.
- Lepidoptera: An order of insects that includes butterflies and moths.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: A style of traditional medicine based on more than 2,500 years of Chinese medical practice.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alisma
- Wikipedia's article - Alisma
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