BALSAMITA SUAVEOLENS Meaning and
Definition
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Balsamita suaveolens, commonly known as costmary or alecost, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe and western Asia, it is cultivated worldwide for its ornamental and medicinal purposes.
Costmary typically grows up to three feet tall, forming a clump of long-stemmed, lance-shaped leaves with a distinct aromatic fragrance. The leaves are pinnate and toothed, with a gray-green color and a velvety texture. The plant blooms in the summer, producing small, yellowish flowers arranged in clusters atop tall stems.
In terms of its medicinal properties, Balsamita suaveolens has a long history of traditional use. Its leaves contain volatile oils, tannin, and various chemical compounds, contributing to its antispasmodic, carminative, and diaphoretic properties. It has been used as a digestive aid, helping to alleviate indigestion, intestinal spasms, and bloating. Additionally, costmary has been used topically for wound healing and to relieve muscle pain and inflammation.
Beyond its medicinal uses, costmary is also valued for its ornamental qualities. The aromatic foliage and bright yellow flowers make it an attractive addition to gardens and flower arrangements.
In summary, Balsamita suaveolens, or costmary, is a perennial herb with aromatic leaves and yellow flowers. It has been traditionally utilized for its medicinal properties, including digestive benefits, and is cultivated for its ornamental value.
Etymology of BALSAMITA SUAVEOLENS
The word Balsamita suaveolens is derived from Latin. The genus name Balsamita comes from the Latin word balsamum, meaning balsam, and the suffix -ita, indicating a resemblance or association. Suaveolens is also Latin, combining suavis, meaning sweet or pleasant, and olens, meaning emitting an odor. Therefore, Balsamita suaveolens can be translated as balsam-like plant with a pleasant fragrance.
