Sedge Root

Some 500-600 species of rhizomatous, grass-like annuals and perennials belong to this genus, which occurs worldwide. It includes such plants as C. esculentus (chufa, or tiger nut), C. involucratus (umbrella grass), a popular house plant; and C. papyrus, the Egyptian paper rush. Many sedges contain volatile oils and astringent substances, used in perfumery and as remedies for digestive problems. The black tubers of C. articulatus (adrue) have a lavender aroma and are useful in treating nausea and dyspepsia Cyperus longus (sweet galingale) was once used as a spice and made into an aromatic tonic, but its uses are now limited to perfumery. Cyperus rotundus is a cosmopolitan plant of damp places, and is among the world's most invasive weeds. It is important in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

Perennial, with a slender, scaly rhizome, and linear leaves, to 60cm (24in) long and 1cm (3/8in) wide. An inflorescence of tiny flowers with red-brown husks in summer is followed by black, 3-angled nuts.


Common Name:
Sedge Root
Other Names:
Nut Grass, 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