Herbal Healer: What is sea holly?
The Sea holly (Eryngium maritimum) is a species of Eryngium in the plant family Apiaceae and native to most European coastlines. In some ways, it resembles a flowering thistle, in that its flower is burr-shaped, though these are metallic blue, rather than mauve. The protected dune plant grows to a height of 20 to 60 cm. Although widespread, it is considered endangered as, for instance in Germany, its occurrence has been greatly reduced throughout and has become extinct in some regions. In Elizabethan times in England, these plants were believed to be a strong aphrodisiac.
Native to European beaches, this hardy plant displays leaves that are shaped like holly, to which it is not related. Its long, nutritious root was candied and rendered into a popular confection in 16th- and 17th-century England. This sweetmeat is still relished in the Middle East.
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Sea holly is a proven expectorant, and as such it has been used for centuries to reduce the phlegm and mucus where stubborn coughs persist. This seashore-loving herb also provides an effective response to a variety of urinary problems, including kidney stones, cystitis, and inflammation of the urethra. Conditions of the uterus and the bladder also diminish under the curative weight of sea holly. Boiled or roasted, the root of the sea holly provides a unique edible that tastes like chestnuts. Its young flowering shoots can be boiled and enjoyed in the manner of asparagus. Thought to be an aphrodisiac in Elizabethan England, sea holly is
given mention in Shakespeare’s Falstaff.
ABOUT THE HERB
Sea holly’s ability to survive the uninviting winters along the coasts of Britain and elsewhere in Europe suggests a very sturdy, robust plant. While being an herb endowed with much beauty — its pale blue flowers are often dried for winter bouquets — sea holly remains mostly hidden beneath the sandy shores. Above ground this perennial ascends a mere foot to a foot and a half, while its medicinal and tasty root can grow 8 to 10 feet in length. Sea holly is protected as an endangered plant, having become extinct in parts of Germany.
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Bring to a boil 2 teaspoons of the root in two cups of water, then simmer until half the water remains. Strain and let sit for twenty minutes. Drink 1/3 cup two or three times a day for urinary problems or to treat coughs.
The opinions expressed are solely the writer’s. NOTE: Visit herbalastrology.com to read Ted PanDeva Zagar’s other articles and columns that discuss the benefits of herbs and natural foods.
DISCLAIMER: The author’s comments are not intended to serve as medical advice, and he urges his readers to seek qualified wellness professionals to resolve matters of health.
Bill & Sheila’s A-Z of herbs
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