Common Name: |
Nut Grass |
Other Names: |
Sedge root, coco grass |
Botanical Name: |
Cyperus rotundus |
Genus: |
Cyperus |
Family: |
Cyperaceae |
Native Location: |
Worldwide |
Cultivation: |
Damp soil in sun. Subject to statuatory control as a weed in some countries, notable in parts of Australia. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in wet soil in spring at 18-21°C (64-70°F); by division in spring. |
Harvest: |
Rootstocks are lifted in summer or winter and dried for use in decoctions. |
Height: |
10-60cm (4-24in) |
Width: |
Indefinite |
Hardiness: |
Z3-10 |
Parts Used: |
Rhizomes, roots and tubers (xiang fu) |
Properties: |
A pungent, bitter-sweet herb that relieves spasms and pain, acting mainly on the digestive system and uterus. Tubers have a strong camphoraceous aroma when fresh, less when dried. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for digestive problems related to blocked liver energy, and menstrual complaints. Often combined with Angelica polymorpha var sinenis (See, Chinese angelica) for irregular menstruation, and with Atractylodes macrocephala (See, Chinese thistle) for nausea and vomiting. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limites. Pg 189
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