![]() Traditional Asian herbal medicine states it is an antiasthmatic, antibacterial, general antiseptic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, emollient, expectorant, and general tonic. The entire plant is dried then reconstituted in tea for medicinal uses. This oil is comparable to rapeseed oil.Īn oil distilled from the leaves was used as a flavoring agent in both toothpastes and candy though these have been replaced by synthetic version nowadays. The seeds are roasted and mixed in with other dishes, dried and then ground as a seasoning, and were pressed for their oil. The flower stalks (inflorescence) are used as garnishes. The sweetish-flavored young leaves have a long history of both being used in salads or cooked as a seasoning for rice and other dishes. Being in the mint family, Beefsteak Weeds have a strong minty scent, show the characteristic square hollow stem, have alternating-opposite leaves, and reproduce vigorously. Beefsteak plants seem to prefer disturbed areas, especially shady areas with moist but well-drained soil. In Texas these plants are usually found near urban and suburban areas where they've gone feral from landscaping beds and gardens. Originally a popular seasoning herb and medicine in Asia, Beefsteak Weed has become an invasive plant across central and eastern United States. ![]() North American distribution, attributed to U. ![]() Note the alternating, opposite arrangement. Note the square shape, opposite leaves and how the flower stalks join the stems at the leaf joints.Ĭlose-up of flower stalk after losing flowers. Note the sharp teeth along the edge and how the veins run along the bottom of these teeth.Ĭlose-ups of the reddish, hairy stem. Mature Beefsteak plant.note the purplish color on the underside of the leaf.Ĭlose-up of leaf. The leave's flavor is excellent right now. Leaves - antiasthmatic, antibacterial, general antiseptic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, emollient, expectorant, antioxidant anti-inflammatory antidepressant, and general tonic Nutritional Value: leaves have fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, vitamins A, C, riboflavin seeds have omega-3 fatty acidsĭangers: dried plants can become toxic to cattle ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |