Asarum europaeum
Asarum europaeum
Asarum europaeum (pronunciation: /əˈsɑːrəm juːroʊˈpiːəm/), commonly known as European wild ginger, is a species of flowering plant in the birthwort family Aristolochiaceae. The etymology of the name is derived from the Greek word 'asarum', which means 'hazelwort'.
Description
Asarum europaeum is a perennial plant that grows up to 10 cm (4 in) high. It has kidney-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped, brownish-purple flowers. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it is often used as a ground cover in shady areas.
Uses
Traditionally, Asarum europaeum has been used in herbal medicine for its antispasmodic and expectorant properties. However, it contains Aristolochic acid, a toxic compound that can cause kidney damage and cancer, so its use is now discouraged.
Related Terms
- Aristolochiaceae: The birthwort family, to which Asarum europaeum belongs.
- Aristolochic acid: A toxic compound found in Asarum europaeum and other plants in the Aristolochiaceae family.
- Perennial plant: A plant that lives for more than two years. Asarum europaeum is a perennial plant.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Asarum europaeum
- Wikipedia's article - Asarum europaeum
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