Iglitsa: therapeutic properties and contraindications

Iglitsa (ruscus, mouse turn) is a perennial artisanal plant that belongs to the Asparagus family. Previously ranked as a separate Iglitsovye family. There are several varieties of shrubs. Some are used in folk medicine, others are used as livestock feed. Green hedges are also made from this shrub; it is planted in parks and gardens. The young shoots of this plant are suitable for consumption. Some people eat and fruit.

Chemical composition

The plant has a number of positive properties due to its rich composition. In the upper part of the plant, including berries, there are such elements:

1. Calcium. One of the most important elements for the human body. It plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of bone tissue in a healthy state. It is also important for teeth. In addition, it takes part in the processes of muscle contraction. For example, cramps can be caused by a lack of this element. Calcium can fight cholesterol by blocking the absorption of saturated fats by the intestines.
2. Chromium. This element takes part in many processes in the body, but most of all its effect is noticeable on maintaining normal blood sugar levels. Chromium is also the prevention of certain diseases of the cardiovascular system. A lack of chromium can cause headaches, vision problems, and dysplasia.
3. Manganese. The daily requirement of the body for this material is small, but it still exists. Manganese is needed for the heart, thanks to this element, some B vitamins, which are necessary for the normal functioning of the digestive system, are better absorbed. Manganese also reduces the risk of developing diabetes. But in large quantities, it can do more harm than good.
4. Phosphorus. Responsible for the development of bone tissue and tooth enamel. This element provides the normal functionality of muscles and mental activity. Due to a lack of phosphorus, a person may feel tired and weak.
5. Potassium. Potassium is involved in maintaining water balance in the body and normalizes the rhythm of the heart. It also saturates the brain better with oxygen, improving its function, is useful for allergies, and is necessary for the normal functioning of soft tissues, including muscles and blood vessels.
6. Iron. Another very important element for health. Iron is part of hemoglobin, is involved in the process of oxygen saturation of body tissues. Without this element, breathing at the cellular level is impossible. It is also involved in metabolism and helps to eliminate toxins from the body.
7. Magnesium. Most organs need this element. It is present in the brain, teeth, liver, kidneys, and even muscle tissue, helps to absorb B vitamins, has a calming effect on the nervous system, is recommended for use in women with PMS, and prevents the risk of diseases of the cardiovascular system.
8. Silicon. It plays an important role in the body, improves the metabolism, participates in the strengthening of blood vessels, helps with toothache, as well as indigestion, raises immunity and lowers blood cholesterol.
9. Cobalt. Participates in protein breakdown and DNA synthesis, normalizes the metabolic process and stimulates blood formation, is responsible for the normal functioning of the pancreas and regulates the production of adrenaline.
10. Vitamin C. It is able to fight toxins and remove them from the body, strengthens the immune system, and enhances the body's defenses against viruses and bacteria.It is also called the omnipotent vitamin, because it strengthens blood vessels, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and skin.
11. Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid). It improves blood circulation, takes an active part in the processes of metabolism and respiration. It is also a beneficial element for skin and hair.
12. Plant fiber. They take part in the digestive processes and are the prevention of certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Despite such a rich set of useful elements, roots are mainly used for medicinal purposes. The following substances are concentrated in them:

1. Saponosides. They have an anti-inflammatory effect and are able to relieve swelling, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, but at the same time narrow them, contribute to the resorption of blood clots.
2. Heterosides. They improve brain activity, increase some blood circulation, and saturate tissues with oxygen, therefore they are useful for depression, headaches and other diseases of the nervous system.

How it looks and where it grows

There are several varieties of plants that differ from each other in appearance and size. Some varieties are grown in gardens. In folk medicine, they use a barbed needle, which is also called Pontic. It can be grown even in room conditions.

Prickly needle is an evergreen shrub, which is characterized by upright stems. The drooping branches on which the leaves are located extend from the main stem. Usually, the height ranges from 30-60 cm, but sometimes it can reach 1 m. The plant has modified shoots that have the shape of leaves. Their structure can be matte or glossy, they have an ovoid shape, pointed at the ends.

The leaves of the plant are also unusual. They differ in small size and triangular shape, are formed on modified shoots. From the side it looks as if one small leaf grows on another, larger.

The flowers are small, light blue, sometimes have shades of purple. Their flowering period is quite long. After the flowers fade, fruits are formed that are painted in a rich red tint. Their diameter rarely exceeds 10 mm. The fruit ripens in November and December. There are several seeds inside the fruit.

Needle grows in the southern regions with warm winters. It occurs on the Black Sea coast, in Turkey, southern Europe, in the Crimea and the Caucasus.

Kinds

At the moment, in addition to the prickly needle, there are 4 species of plants, each different not only in appearance, but also in the habitat:

1. Needle leaf true (Italian). Externally, the bush looks like a prickly variety. The stems of the plant are straight, can reach 50-60 cm in length. The leaves are oblong, painted in a rich green tint. Flowers are white or slightly bluish, appear in February-March. In the wild grows on the Mediterranean coast. Most often found in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. Grows in the shade of trees, in moist soil.
2. The needle is sublingual. Shrub with erect stems up to 40 cm high. The bract consists of 6 petals, which have an oblong shape that looks like a tongue. In the middle is a small purple flower. Modified shoots can reach 2 cm in width. The flowering period falls in May; fruiting lasts from August to December. It is found in Central Europe, Asia Minor and the Balkan Peninsula. In Russia, it is found only in the southern part of Crimea. Grows in groups or singly in places with high humidity in the shade.
3. Needle Colchis. This species is considered endangered. The plant has straight, non-branching stems, which can reach 4 cm in width. The leaves are small, resembling an awl. Shrub can reach 60–70 cm in height. The flowers are white, located at the bottom. It is found in Georgia and Turkey. In Russia, can only be found on the Black Sea coast. This species is unique in that it blooms almost the whole year. The first flowers appear in October-November, and the fruits in March.In summer, repeated blooming is often observed.
4. Needle Hyrcanic. Perennial plant with straight shoots, which can reach 40-50 cm in height. One bush can consist of 3 main stems and several processes. The plant is listed in the Red Book as an endangered species. It grows on the territory of Azerbaijan and Iran, and is found in small quantities in the southern part of Crimea. As the shrub grows in arid regions, the fruits grow small. They have a rich red color and ripen in mid-autumn.

Collection and storage

For medicinal purposes, the roots of the plant are mainly used. Traditional medicine uses both decorative varieties and wild ones for treatment.

The roots are harvested in the fall. Since the shrub usually grows on moist soils, there should be no problems with the extraction of medicinal raw materials. The roots need to be collected in limited quantities to avoid the degeneration of the needle. If the weather allows, it is better to spread the roots on the street under a canopy. It is advisable to avoid sunlit places. Otherwise, you need to dry the roots in the attic by opening the windows to provide fresh air.

Finished raw materials must be crushed to a powder state. This is not difficult to do. First cut the roots into small pieces, then pass through a coffee grinder or put finely chopped raw materials in a bag and grind well with a rolling pin. Store the workpiece in a glass jar in a dry place. Subject to all conditions, the root can retain its positive properties throughout the year.

The healing properties of the needle

Iglitsa has occupied its niche in folk medicine. It is used to treat various diseases.

1. This plant helps fight inflammation in the body. The compounds contained in the plant can not only suppress inflammation, but also heal the damage caused by them.
2. The needle is able to treat chronic venous insufficiency. With this disease, the veins located on the legs can hardly return blood to the heart. The compounds that make up the plant improve vein contraction, thereby helping the blood return to the heart.
3. Elderly people often face the problem of a sudden drop in blood pressure when they abruptly get out of bed. Studies have shown that the needle can help with this problem, due to the ability to narrow the veins.
4. Hemorrhoids are one of the common problems among the elderly. Traditional medicine successfully uses medicines based on this plant to treat hemorrhoids and other vascular diseases. The plant is valued for its ability to relieve puffiness and improve vein reduction.
5. The needle reduces the risk of blood clots and clogging of blood vessels. It is able to remove toxins from the body, restores the water-salt balance and improves blood circulation.
6. The needle is also widespread in cosmetology. For this purpose, both roots and fruits are used, extracts are made by evaporation of useful substances. The plant is able to stimulate intracellular metabolism, which does not allow the development of cellulite, tone smooth muscles and take care of the skin. Root extract is often added to foot skin care products.
7. The plant often becomes a component of facial skin care cosmetics. The needle allows you to fight dark spots under the eyes and eliminates the protrusion of fatty tissue in the lower eyelid.
8. Some body scrubs also contain needle needles. The plant allows you to restore skin elasticity, makes it smooth and eliminates age spots.
9. In medicine, the needle needle extract is part of some drugs that help with nervous disorders, cardiovascular diseases and problems with the organs of vision.

Needle in traditional medicine

Despite the great benefits of the plant, in folk medicine there is a limited number of recipes. The fact is that ready-made tinctures and extracts are sold in pharmacies.

With hemorrhoid

For this purpose, it is recommended to take a tincture of the plant.It has an anti-inflammatory property and is characterized by the ability to improve vein contraction.

To prepare it, you need to take 20 g of powdered roots and mix with vodka in a proportion of 1:10, then close tightly and put to infuse for 4 weeks in a dark, cool place. Filter the finished medicine and drink 10 drops, diluted with water, three times a day before meals.

With edema

For this purpose, use a decoction that has a strong diuretic effect. From this decoction, compresses are applied to the sore spot with varicose veins. It can also help women relieve menopause and PMS.

To prepare it, you will need 7 g of powder and 200 ml of boiling water. Pour boiling water into the root in a glass container, then put in a saucepan and fill with water to the liquid level in a glass. Boil in a water bath for 10-15 minutes. Cool the medicine to room temperature, then strain. Drink 20-30 ml three times a day before meals. With varicose veins, decoction of the legs several times a day.

Root extract

The extract is able to improve blood circulation, helps to eliminate toxins and toxins from the body. Effectively removes black circles under the eyes, improves vascular strength.

First you need to prepare the water. It should be clean and free from any impurities. It can be distilled at home. To do this, pour water into the pan, then place an empty bowl inside. It is important to select a container so that drops of water do not fall into it during the boiling process. Next, cover the pan with a concave lid and put ice on its surface, which will cool the distillate and improve condensation. In the process of boiling, the water will turn into pure steam and settle in a bowl. Then mix the purified water with glycerin (the norm of glycerin depends on the desired consistency of the finished product and can vary from 10 to 60%).

Next, you need to mix the crushed roots of the plant with a water-glycerin solution in a ratio of 1: 5. The extract is kept in a dark and cool room for 14 days. Mix the medicine daily. Store in a dark container. Shelf life without adding a preservative does not exceed 21 days. The extract can be added to cosmetic preparations or used in pure form.

Types of healing compounds

Very often in folk medicine use a needle for the treatment of varicose veins. From the roots of this plant prepare infusions, decoctions and tinctures.

Infusion

The infusion has an anti-inflammatory effect. Folk doctors recommend it to women to get rid of the discomfort caused by premenstrual syndrome. This remedy can help with hemorrhoids. The needle removes unpleasant sensations and generally has a positive effect with varicose veins. The infusion also has a diuretic property.

To prepare the infusion, you need 1 tbsp. a spoonful of medicinal raw materials and 1 liter of boiling water. In a glass container, it is necessary to put the powder from the root of the plant, then pour boiling water, cover and set to infuse for 3-4 hours. Next, strain the liquid through several times folded cheesecloth. It is advisable to do this several times so that no powder remains in the infusion. Drink 2-3 times a day before meals in small portions.

Tincture

Tincture is used for venous insufficiency. It is able to relieve the discomfort caused by this disease (pain, cramps, swelling). It has an anti-inflammatory property, it is recommended to drink with hemorrhoids, problems with the kidneys or gall bladder. Tincture can help with jaundice, gout, but in this case, you should first consult your doctor.

Preparing a 10% tincture of the powder of the roots of the needle. It will take 50 g of raw materials and 0.5 l of vodka or alcohol 40%. Pour the roots of the plant with vodka in a glass container, then tightly clog and insist for 14–20 days, occasionally shaking. As soon as it is ready, strain through a dense gauze several times and pour into another glass container. Store the medicine in the refrigerator. Drink 10-15 drops three times a day before meals.

Decoction

It is used to treat edema, seizures and lymphatic congestion. Traditional medicine advises women to drink a decoction to get rid of discomfort during menopause. The broth has a diuretic effect. It is also drunk to cleanse the body of toxins and toxins.

To prepare, you will need 10 g of powder from the root and 250 ml of boiled water at room temperature. Pour the powder into a saucepan, add water and bring to a boil over low heat. Boil the medicine for 15-20 minutes, then insist until cool and strain thoroughly. Drink in small portions throughout the day.

Application in cosmetology

Needle-based cosmetic products have been successfully used for more than one year. The plant is able to effectively treat rosacea, a disease characterized by the appearance of dilated capillaries on the skin. It occurs due to circulatory disorders. The effectiveness of the plant is due to the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect. The needle is also capable of killing bacteria. In this case, the treatment is not limited to eliminating the symptoms, the plant can eliminate the causes of the disease.

Do not forget about the ability of the needle to fight cellulite. The plant activates blood circulation, improves metabolic processes and stimulates cell regeneration. It also helps to successfully fight stretch marks.

To improve the condition of the skin, you can use plant extract. In pharmacies, ready-made ones are sold, but you can make it yourself. The extract is of two types:

1. Macerat. Translated from Latin means "soaked." It is obtained by soaking a plant in a liquid (water, alcohol, oil).
2. Infusion. This is the process of extracting nutrients from a plant using fluid.

The second method is used more often than others. To prepare the hood, you will need berries or roots of the plant. Flowers are also sometimes used. Then heat the liquid (without bringing to a boil) and pour the raw materials into it, then insist for several hours. Then the infusion should be filtered and stored in bottles. It can be added to cream or shampoo.

You can also add fresh berries to cosmetics. To do this, they need to be peeled, seeds removed, then crushed into pulp and added to the cream for hands, feet or face. This cream can lubricate the circles around the eyes.

With heaviness in the legs, varicose veins and others, the problem will require an extract from the roots of the needle. It can be used as an independent tool, applying compresses to a sore spot, and paired with foot cream. At the same time, you need to mix the extract with the cream in order to maintain a thick texture.

Folk doctors advise lubricating the skin around the eyes with fresh berry juice. They can also be eaten.

The extract is also successfully used in the fight against cellulite. To do this, lubricate the problem areas with the extract from the roots of the plant in the water.

Growing at home

There are references that the needle was growing on the planet before the ice age. Now this plant is not very common, some species are even recognized as endangered, however, it can be found not only in gardens, but also in apartments.

The needle can be grown as a shrub or as a miniature tree. In any case, it will remain a beautiful and attractive plant. It does not require special care, even a novice gardener can cope with this. In March, the plant begins to develop rapidly, so it is important to provide all the conditions during this period. Firstly, with a frequency of 20 days, you need to make mineral fertilizers that are used for flowering crops. Secondly, provide regular watering. From the fulfillment of these requirements depends on what shoots will be.

During manipulations with the needle, you need to be careful not to damage the young shoots, otherwise their growth will stop and continue only next year.

You can position the plant in the room almost anywhere, in the shade or in a lighted area. But at the same time, you need to protect it from direct sunlight. For this reason, plants die in the wild. They usually grow in the shade of trees, and when deforestation they die in the sun.

In summer, a pot with a needle should be placed on the north window, and in the winter on the south.

There are no requirements for air humidity. It grows equally well in humid and dry air. But in the summer it is still recommended to spray a little shrub from a spray bottle. It is advisable to do this procedure at least 1 time per week.

The required temperature depends on the season. When the weather is warm outside, the temperature in the room should be between 19 and 24 degrees Celsius. In winter, the indicators are slightly lower - 13-16 degrees.

Abundant watering is required only in the spring, when shoots grow. In the rest of the year, it is enough to add water when the earth begins to dry.

When the bush becomes crowded in a pot, it is recommended to transplant into a deeper container. You can give the bush splendor if you plant it in a wide container. This will make it possible for new shoots to grow from the root. You can plant a needle in any soil, with the exception of clay soil. Another requirement for the soil - it should not be too dense, otherwise a lot of water will accumulate on the surface.

When grown in the garden, various pests can affect the needle. If any traces of their presence are detected, it is necessary to process the plant. Good at the same time helps tincture of garlic. To cook it, you need to chop 2 heads of garlic, transfer them to an airtight container and pour 1 liter of water. To maintain tincture within 5 days then mix in addition with 1 l of water. You can also use special biological products.

Contraindications

The needle is successfully used in folk and traditional medicine. This is an incredibly useful plant, which is not without its contraindications. Due to the ability to narrow vessels, it is not recommended to drink it with hypertension. It is also forbidden to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For children, taking this plant is also not advisable.

The needle has anti-inflammatory properties, but it is not advised to drink with inflammatory processes of the urinary tract.

In case of venous stasis, it is imperative to consult a doctor. In the absence of these health problems, it is still recommended to consult a doctor before using medicines based on this plant. In some cases, individual intolerance to some components or an allergic reaction may be observed. Before drinking medicine from this shrub, you need to check the absence of allergies by applying a small amount of decoction or infusion to the skin.

In case of an overdose with a needle, symptoms of poisoning, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, can be observed. In this case, it is necessary to take activated carbon at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight.

This is not only a useful plant, but also a beautiful decorative element. Gardeners and designers value the needle for its ability to bloom for a long time. It gives the room or garden an amazing look, and growing it is easy. In addition, it bears fruitful beneficial berries. Many cosmetic companies use plant extract as an ingredient in certain drugs. For example, L’Oreal adds a needle to a face cream.

Photo needles