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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.


AEOLLANTHUS
(Aeollanthus gamwelliae syn A. graveolens)
Also: A. heliotropioides, A. lamborayi, A. myrianthus, A. pubescens
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Tender subshrub native to tropical zones of Africa. Fragrant herb which has an unusual exploding pollination mechanism. Some species have rose scented flowers and lemon-scented leaves. Found on rocky outcrops in Eastern Africa at altitudes of 4600 feet. Rich in essential oils including geraniol.

Propagation: By seed in spring.
Needs: Well-drained sandy-dry soil and full sun.
Harvest: Whole plant, or leaves and flowers (keep separate). All are distilled for oil.


USES

CULINARY:
Leaves are added to soups and salads.

OTHER:
OTHER:
Oil from the leaves and flowers is used in soaps and perfumes and sometimes substituted for palmarosa oil (Cymbopogon martinii).



©2000 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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