Iris germanica
Botanical Nomenclature | Iris germanica |
Common Name | Bearded Iris |
Taxonomy- Family | Liliaceae |
Distinguishing Features of the Plant | Iris germanica is a perennial plant growing up to 1m, with broad leaves and large, fluffy, purple flowers. The flowering lasts from May to June and the harvesting takes place in autumn. |
Region Found | Ioannina (Gramos, Vikos-Aoos, Metsovo Pindos, Zagori), Arta (Tzoumerka) |
Part of the Plant with Active Substances | Rhizome |
Active Substances | Starch (50%), mucus, essential oil, irone (aromatic ketone which is contained in the essential oil), organic acids |
Pharmacological Effects - Therapeutic Applications | The whole plant is used as antithelminthic, sudorific, cholagogue, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, tonic, antispasmodic and analgesic mainly against toothache and stomachache. It is administered in the form of herbal tea as a diuretic for the treatment of cystitis, gallbladder's and spleen's disorders, as well as an expectorant against dry and productive cough. |
Method of Administration | The plant is administered in the form of infusion (0,5-1g of dried herb in a cup of boiling water, 2-3 times a day) and in the form of herbal tea (2 spoons of dried herb in a cup of boiled water), which is taken either orally or it is applied externally to the skin (washes). Warning: The use of herb preparations is not recommended without seeking advice from your physician or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with the subscribed drugs that the patient already takes, thus eliminating their therapeutic efficacy or inducing toxicity. They may also burden further weakened vital functions of the body thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life threatened conditions. |
Toxicity- Adverse Effects | Overdose may cause nausea and vomiting. Use should be avoided during pregnancy. |
References | 1) https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/i/irises08.html 2) http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail494.php 3) http://medicinalherbinfo.org/herbs/OrrisRoot.html 4) http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Iris+germanica 5) http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-645-orris.aspx?activeingredientid=645&activeingredientname=orris |