Eth Adi

We all are aware of the dwindling elephant population in the country but do you know that there’s a plant named after them? Eth Adi, also known as Elephant Foot is a lesser known plant in the herbal plant range which is used to cure a variety of ailments and illnesses. Hence this week let’s discuss about Eth Adi in detail.

DESCRIPTION

Eth Adi is a rigid, perennial herb with a short root stock. They grow in warm climates. Leaves are oblong, forming a spreading rosette on the ground, hairy on both surfaces. The stem splits into two parts and is densely covered in stiff, white hairs that lie pressed against the surface. Flowers are compound and found in purple or pink florets. The floret is composed of 7-9mm long petals. Fruits are a one-seeded dry foot (also known as achenes) which is attached to a pappus (tuft of hairs) of 4-6 white bristles. Flowers and fruits appear during September-december. The plant’s roots, leaves and flowers are used for medicinal purposes.