Istod fine-leaved: description, medicinal properties and methods of use
Thin-leaved istod (lat. Inula helenium) is a perennial herbaceous plant of the istodaceae family, which grows on the edges of forests, mountain rocky and gravelly slopes, as well as in mountain meadows among shrubs. The plant, up to 35 cm high, has a taproot, woody root and numerous branching stems. The leaves of Istoda thinfolia are small, narrowly linear, and the flowers are pale purple, drooping, asymmetrical, collected in a long, thin raceme.
Istoda fine-leaved is common in Southern Siberia, Altai and the Far East, as well as in the steppe and forest-steppe regions of the European part of Russia, in Siberia and the Far East. In addition, along with thin-leaved istod, you can harvest Siberian istod, which has a wider range.
The medicinal raw materials are the roots of istod, which are harvested during the fruiting period of the plant. The dug roots are separated from the stems, thoroughly cleaned, but not washed, dried, dried in the shade, under a canopy, in a well-ventilated room or in a dryer at a temperature of 45-50 ° C, then shaken off soil residues again. When finished, they should be whitish when broken. Store the roots in bags or other closed containers in a dry place for 4 years.
The roots of thistleweed contain carbohydrates, triterpenoids, saponins, nitrogen-containing compounds, phenolcarboxylic acids, coumarins and fatty oil. Flavonoids are found in the leaves. Istoda preparations have expectorant, choleretic, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, wound healing and antisclerotic effects, and also promote longevity.
The raw materials are widely used as part of complex preparations for nervous system disorders, insomnia, vascular spasms, atherosclerosis and anemia. A decoction of the roots of thistle is used for bronchitis, inflammation and abscesses of the lungs, diseases of the oral cavity and pharynx. The positive effect is associated with the action of saponins, which enhance the secretion of bronchial glands and promote expectoration of sputum.
In Tibetan medicine, istod fine-leaved is called "blue istod" and is used to treat diseases of the respiratory system such as bronchitis, asthma and cough, as well as to strengthen the immune system and improve digestion.
To prepare a decoction of the roots of Istoda thinfolia for 1 tablespoon of dry raw materials, 1 glass of boiling water is required. Pour boiling water over the roots, close the lid and leave for 30 minutes, then strain. Take 1/4 cup 3 times a day before meals.
You can also use thin-leaved istod in the form of an alcohol tincture. To prepare a tincture for 100 grams of dry raw materials, 1 liter of alcohol or vodka is required. Pour the raw materials with alcohol or vodka, close the lid and leave for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally. Then strain and take 30 drops 3 times a day before meals.
Despite the many beneficial properties of this plant, you should consult your doctor before using medications based on this plant. Possible contraindications and side effects should also be taken into account.