Cineraria maritima is a species of flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. The word Cineraria is spelled with the /sɪnəˈrɛərɪə/ phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word Maritima is spelled with the /məˈrɪtɪmə/ phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The name Cineraria comes from the Latin word "cinis" meaning ash, referring to the gray or ash-colored leaves of this plant. In traditional medicine, Cineraria maritima has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Cineraria Maritima refers to a perennial plant species scientifically known as Senecio maritimus. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as "Dusty Miller." Native to the Mediterranean region, Cineraria Maritima can commonly be found in coastal areas with sandy soils.
This plant is characterized by its silver-gray foliage that is densely covered in soft, velvety hairs. The leaves are deeply lobed, giving them an attractive, fern-like appearance. Cineraria Maritima typically grows to a height of around 30-60 centimeters and produces small, yellow flowers in clusters during the summer months.
Cineraria Maritima is well-known for its ornamental value and is frequently used in gardens and landscapes as a decorative plant. Its unique foliage provides a striking contrast to other plants and can add visual interest to any setting.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cineraria Maritima also holds medicinal properties. The plant contains various compounds, including sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As a result, extracts from Cineraria Maritima leaves are commonly used in ophthalmic preparations, particularly eye drops, to alleviate symptoms associated with eye irritation, redness, and dryness. This usage in eye care has earned it the common name "Cineraria Eye Drops" or "Senecio Eye Drops."
Overall, Cineraria Maritima is a versatile plant that offers both decorative and medicinal benefits, making it highly valued in horticulture and alternative medicine.
An herb, dusty miller, Sinecio cineraria, the fresh juice of which has been credited with the faculty of causing the absorption of soft capsular cataract.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Cineraria" comes from the Latin "cinerarius", which means "ashen" or "ash-colored". It refers to the characteristic ash-gray color of the plant's leaves.
"Maritima" comes from the Latin word "maritimus", which means "of the sea" or "pertaining to the sea". It indicates that the plant is found or associated with coastal areas or maritime environments.