ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA Meaning and
Definition
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Asclepias syriaca, commonly known as common milkweed or butterfly weed, is a perennial flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is a prominent member of the Asclepias genus. The plant can reach a height ranging from 1 to 6 feet, featuring a sturdy, upright stem with broad, opposite leaves that are elliptical or oval-shaped.
Common milkweed produces clusters of beautiful, fragrant flowers, typically in various shades of pink, from late spring to early fall. These flowers are known for their intricate structure and are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Among the species it attracts is the beloved Monarch butterfly, which relies on milkweed plants as a primary food source for its larvae.
The plant's essential characteristic is its milky sap, rich in various alkaloids, which gives it its name. This sap has historically been used medicinally by Native Americans for various purposes, including treating respiratory and gastrointestinal ailments. However, it is important to note that the plant contains toxins and should not be ingested without proper preparation or guidance from an experienced herbalist.
In addition to its cultural and ecological significance, Asclepias syriaca is often cultivated in gardens for its aesthetic appeal and its ability to support pollinators. Its vibrant flowers, attractive to both humans and wildlife, make it a popular choice for butterfly gardens or naturalized landscapes.
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Wild cotton, silk-weed, the root of which is employed in amenorrhea, dropsy, rheumatism, and asthma in doses of 3 1/2-1 (2.0-4.0) of the fluidextract.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA
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Etymology of ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA
The etymology of "Asclepias syriaca" comes from the combination of two components: "Asclepias" and "syriaca".
1. "Asclepias": The genus name "Asclepias" comes from the Greek god of healing and medicine, Asclepius. In Greek mythology, Asclepius was the son of Apollo and Coronis, known for his healing powers and the symbol of the serpent-entwined staff, which has become associated with medicine. The name "Asclepias" was given to this genus of plants, including Asclepias syriaca, due to their medicinal properties known to ancient Greeks.
2. "Syriaca": The species epithet "syriaca" indicates the association of this plant with Syria.
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