Atriplex hortensis
Botanical Nomenclature | Atriplex hortensis |
Common Name | Arrach, French Spinach, Garden Orache, Mountain Spinach, Red Orach |
Taxonomy- Family | Chenopodiaceae |
Distinguishing Features of the Plant | Atriplex hortensis is an annual plant growing from 0,5 to 2,5m, with triangular or oval, toothed, green, red or purple leaves and small, purple or green flowers in inflorescence. The seeds are small, black, surrounded with a thin, pale-yellow, translucent membrane. The flowering lasts from July to August and the harvesting takes place from August to October. |
Region Found | Epirus |
Part of the Plant with Active Substances | Leaves, fruits |
Active Substances | Resins, beta-carotene, betaine, saponins, hydrocyanic acid, selenium, fiber, carotene, minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus), protein, vitamin A, B, C. |
Pharmacological Effects - Therapeutic Applications | The plant has diuretic, antirheumatic, emetic, tonic and laxative properties. It is used to stimulate metabolism, while in folk medicine it is recommended in the form of herbal tea for the treatment of gout, cough and various lung diseases. The seeds are used against jaundice and they may stimulate the vomit center. It is applied externally to the skin as emollient and moisturizer in the form of ointment. |
Method of Administration | The plant is administered in the form of herbal tea (a spoon of dried herb in a cup of boiled water for 5-10min, 3 times a day). It is applied externally to the skin as emollient in the form of ointment. 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 | No side effects have been reported. |
References | 1)http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/a/atriplex-hortensis=orach.php 2)http://practicalplants.org/wiki/Atriplex_hortensis 3)http://www.pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Atriplex+hortensis 4)https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/orach.html 5)https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/arrac060.html |