Cyclamen.

Cyclamen: beauty and medicinal properties

Cyclamen is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the primrose family. It is known for its unique modified underground stems called oblate tubers. Cyclamen leaves are round in shape and are on long petioles, while they are heart-shaped at the base. This plant blooms from February to March, pleasing the eye with its beautiful flowers.

Cyclamen flowers appear on long stalks and grow directly from the roots. After flowering, a spherical capsule containing many seeds is formed. Interestingly, the stalks twist in a spiral, burying the fruit in the ground where it ripens.

This plant is widespread in the European part of Russia, the Caucasus and Crimea. It grows in beech forests, among bushes, on gravelly areas and in mountainous areas, rising to an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level.

Cyclamen has medicinal properties and its bulb is used as a medicinal raw material. It contains saponin, cyclamine and bitter substances. Cyclamen-based preparations are used as sedatives, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents.

Cyclamen infusion is recommended for general malaise, asthenic conditions, general psycho-emotional agitation and sleep disturbances. Fresh cyclamen juice is used for gynecological diseases such as white discharge.

Cyclamen also has a positive effect on sinusitis, sinusitis and cold headaches. Undiluted cyclamen juice is dropped into the nose, 1-2 drops at a time, and after a while copious secretions begin to flow from the nostrils, and the state of health improves significantly.

An infusion of cyclamen roots is also used in medical practice. To prepare it, you need to pour 1 teaspoon of crushed roots with 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 2-3 hours and strain through cheesecloth. The infusion is taken 1 tablespoon 3 times a day after meals. The infusion should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days; before use, it is recommended to warm it to room temperature.

To prepare a tincture that can be stored longer, 1 gram of raw materials can be poured with 10 grams of 70% ethyl alcohol and left for 5-7 days. It is taken 30-40 drops 3 times a day.

However, it is worth remembering that all types of cyclamens are poisonous. Cyclamen poisoning causes symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, headache, and in more severe cases, convulsions, cardiovascular and respiratory failure may occur. If you suspect cyclamen poisoning, you should immediately rinse your stomach and seek medical help. The doctor may prescribe antispasmodics and carry out appropriate treatment.

Cyclamen is not only an excellent ornamental plant, but also a valuable source of medicinal properties. Its use in medicine requires caution and should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist.