sand Spurrey
Spergularia rubra (L.) J. et C.Presl

   

Sand Spurrey is an annual plant that branches from the very base, 7-20 cm in height, the stem is covered with glandular hairs in the upper part. The leaves are linear, narrowed at the base and at the top, 0.5-1mm wide, 5-15mm long. Flowers on long filiform peduncles. Petals oval, pink, small. Fruit box pale greenish, small. Seeds small, brown.

For medicinal purposes, the rose hip is harvested during its flowering, starting from May until September. Collect the above-ground part of the plant and the flowers. The plant is dried on sieves, in a well-ventilated room or in a shady place, it is preferable to shake the plant frequently and turn it over, as it has a tendency to rot. The herb will dry in about 2-3 weeks and then it can be packed in paper bags or plastic boxes. The plant can be stored for an average of 1 year.

From a chemical point of view, the plant has been studied little. Its medicinal properties are determined by the flavonoids and coumarins found in the plant.

Medicinal significance

It has been determined experimentally that substances in the plant can completely dissolve calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, urates and some mucoproteins. Galenic preparations made from rosacea have a sedative and anti-inflammatory effect on animals. Scientists also noticed the antiseptic properties of the plant.

In folk medicine, decoctions and infusions are used to dissolve kidney stones and remove sand. The plant also helps to lighten pigmentation spots and freckles.

Not recommended for use

The plant has been little studied, so its side effects are also unknown. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the plant during pregnancy and lactation, nor should it be used on children.