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GALINGALE GYPERUS
LONGUS
Good for the swimming of the head.
A hardy perennial, also known as the Sweet Cyperus or Umbrella Plant,
growing to about four feet (1.2 M). It has a triangular stem
on top of which grows a tuft of grass-like flowers.
Where to find it: Marshland in Brazil, Palestine, South Africa
and Europe.
Flowering time: Early in midsummer. Astrology: A plant
of Mars.
Medicinal virtues: It expels wind and strengthens the bowels.
It eases colic, provokes urine and the terms and prevents dropsy.
Good for giddiness. Sometimes it is used in gargles for mouth ulcers.
Modern uses: The roots are the part used. A decoction is
employed as a gastro-intestinal tonic and for treating water retention.
This variety is not widely available and has fallen from popularity.
Several other varieties of Cyperus are in use. C. esculentus
produces underground tubers, known as tiger nuts, which are
used in southern Europe in making iced drinks. The root of C. odoratus
is used by Indian doctors for its stomachic properties.
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