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