Iris root
Marsh iris - benefits and treatments
A perennial herbaceous plant with a modified rhizome and ornamental flowers, which became the ancestor of many varieties, is called Iris marsh. The most important healing property - anti-inflammatory, enveloping, you can also note the expectorant effect. Iris root is used in folk medicine as a laxative.
This herbaceous perennial can grow up to 90 centimeters in height, and its powerful, creeping, branched root is up to two centimeters in diameter. The cut immediately turns brown. Distributed mainly in Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. It is not found in Ukraine because it needs moist meadows rich in acidic substrate.
Chemical composition:
- acids;
- isoflan glycosides;
- fatty oils;
- starch;
- resinous substances;
- organic acids;
- mucus;
- tannins;
- amino acids;
- ascorbic acid.
For medicinal purposes, iris root is due to the presence of a unique essential oil - this is its main active ingredient. The roots should be dug for 3 years after planting in late summer. Prepared raw materials are cut lengthwise, dried in ovens or in well-ventilated rooms outdoors. Dried root should be stored in glass jars or paper bags for up to three years.
Pharmacology
Rhizomes are most often used in the treatment of diseases that occur in the upper respiratory tract and digestive organs. Given the presence of phenol, iris has a positive effect on the genitourinary system and digestive organs. Flavonoids can reduce the fragility of capillaries, normalize blood pressure, stimulate the function of the adrenal cortex.
Coumarins, which have antimicrobial and antitumor effects, act as antispasmodics. Tannins are able to normalize the gastrointestinal tract, and isoflavones fill the deficiency of sex hormones.
Methods of use
As a decoction, iris can cure sore throat - you need to regularly gargle. Also susceptible to pneumonia, bronchitis. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can be used as a diuretic. You can buy a drug based on iris in a pharmacy. The price of the product based on the rhizome of Iris is acceptable. The essential oils of the plant are used in cosmetology and perfumery.
The tincture is prepared from the rhizome and is used internally for diseases of the bladder, kidneys, bronchitis, constipation, poisoning. Externally used for rinsing the mouth and throat. If nervous exhaustion is observed, drink the infusion of crushed roots several times a day. Alcohol tincture is taken for mycosis, colitis, intestinal cramps, constipation. You can apply it to wounds, skin rashes.