Queen Anne's Lace

Ten species of annuals and biennials closely related to Daucus (See wild carrot) make up this genus, which occurs through SW Asia to S Europe and neighboring Atlantic islands. Ammi majus is widely grown in India for the treatment of vitiligo: the active ingredient is psoralene, which stimulates pigment production in skin exposed to ultraviolet light. It also has a long history of use as a contraceptive in various cultures. If a decoction of ground seeds is taken after intercourse, it may prevent implantation of the fertilized ovum. In Morocco, where it is known as cure-dents du Prophète, it is used as a gargle for toothache. In the West it is better known as an ornamental. Ammi visnaga was mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus c.1550BCE. The seeds contain a fatty oil, which includes khellin. Research into Khellin in the 1950's led to the formulation of commercial drugs for management of asthma.

Tall annual with finely-divided leaves, 15-20cm (6-8in) long. Tiny white flowers are borne in umbels, 3-6cm (1¼-2½in) across in summer, followed by small, ridged, pale brown fruits (seeds).


Common Name:
Queen Anne's Lace
Other Names:
Bullwort, bishopsweed
Botanical Name:
Ammi majus
Genus:
Ammi
Family:
Apiaceae
Native Location:
S Europe, Turkey, N Africa
Cultivation:
Well-drained soil in sun.
Propagation:
By seed sown in spring.
Harvest:
Seeds are gathered when ripe and dried for powders, tinctures, and liquid extracts. Fractions of the fatty oil are extracted for drug formulation.
Height:
30-90cm (12-36in)
Width:
30cm (12in)
Hardiness:
Hardy
Parts Used:
Seeds
Properties:
A tonic, diuretic herb that affects skin pigmentation.
Medicinal Uses:
Externally, in commercial preparations, for vitiligo and psoriasis. Excess causes nausea, diarrhea and headaches.
Culinary Uses:
Seeds are used as a condiment.
Warning:
Legally restricted in some countries.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 118