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What is the oval plant
Oroval, also sometimes spelled orobal, is a medicinal plant whose scientific name is Withania frutescens, and it is directly related to a plant of which we have already spoken several times in ecocosas, the Withania somnifera or ashwaganda.
Unlike its Indian sister, this species is typical of North Africa, southern Iberia and the Canary Islands, and other common names for the plant are bufera and campanillera.
Oroval: medicinal properties
The medicinal properties of oroval are distinguished by its antimicrobial results, proven in at least 10 different species of bacteria, as well as its antioxidant, antirheumatic, immune-boosting, relaxant, diuretic, laxative, healing and anti-inflammatory properties. . The main active ingredients are withanolide steroids and steroidal saponins or withaferins. These principles are shared with other species in the family, whether Withania somnifera vague Withania aristata.
Benefits and what is this plant for
The oval or Withania frutescens It offers countless benefits for:
- Strengthen the immune system. Although it has not been extensively researched, it is believed that an infusion of the roots of this herb may help boost the immune system. The truth is that recent studies have shown its effectiveness as an antioxidant, and there is a direct relationship between the antioxidant effect on the body and the improvement or strengthening of the immune system.
- treat arthritis. The poultices and the infusion can be used to treat joint pain, thanks to its antirheumatic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- fight insomnia. The properties of oroval are relaxing, which is why its internal consumption is used to treat sleep problems such as insomnia.
- heal wounds. One of the traditional uses of this plant is precisely to heal wounds, poultices of the leaves being the most effective.
- Water retention. Thanks to the fact that it is a powerful diuretic, this root can be used to treat water retention, which can have very different causes, whether circulatory problems, congestive heart failure, diseases liver or kidneys, etc.
- Constipation. Traditionally, the berries of this plant are used to treat constipation problems, to stimulate the digestive system and, above all, to evacuate the intestine.
- antioxidant. As we said, recent studies have shown the potential of this herb to fight free radicals and cell damage.
most common applications
The most common uses are as poultices of the leaves to heal wounds, but for internal use it can be taken as an infusion (root bark), a decoction of its fruits, or root juice, although in the latter case for external use.
Oval contraindications
It is considered to have some toxicity, so one of the main contraindications of oroval is that it should be used sparingly. In the case of infusion, the measure is one small teaspoon of dessert for each cup of water.
Did you know the properties of oroval and what it is used for? Do you have any experience of using it? As we always say, leave it in the comments, may we and our readers benefit from contributions that expand our knowledge of medicinal plants.
IMPORTANT: This information is intended to supplement, not replace, the advice of your physician or healthcare professional, and is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects.
This information may not apply to your specific health situation. Never delay or neglect seeking advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you read in ecothings. You should always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any type of treatment.