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Vaccaria hispanica (1 Page of 5) The Vaccaria hispanica plant species is found in C. and S. Europe, north to Belgium. An introduced and not infrequent casual in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Caryophyllaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as V. pyramidata. V. segetilis. V. vulgaris. Saponaria vaccaria. L. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Vaccaria hispanica Family: Caryophyllaceae Author: (Mill.)Rausch. Known Hazards: The seeds and other parts of the plant contain saponins[218, 240]. Although toxic, these substances are very poorly absorbed by the body and so tend to pass through without causing harm, they are also broken down if thoroughly heated[K]. Saponins are found in many plants, including several that are often used for food, such as certain beans. It is not advisible to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish[K]. Mature Height: 0.6 Mature Width: Habitat: A weed of cultivated fields[50].
Medicinal Information: The seed is anodyne, discutient, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, styptic and vulnerary[147, 176, 178, 218]. A decoction is used to treat skin problems, breast tumors, menstrual problems, deficiency of lactation and sluggish labour[218]. The seeds are also taken internally as a galactogogue[218]. The flowers, leaves, roots and shoots also have the same properties[218].
The sap of the plant is said to be febrifuge and tonic[240]. It is used in the treatment of long-continued fevers of a low type[240].
The plant is used externally to cure itch[240].
For further Vaccaria hispanica gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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