Botanical: Siegesbeckia orientalis (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Compositae
SynonymThe Holy Herb.
Parts UsedJuice, leaves, and whole plant.
HabitatIsle of Bourbon
DescriptionA small composite plant or small shrub growing in hot climates. The heads are small with an involucre of five bracts covered with very sticky glandular hairs. The secretion continues till after the fruit is ripe and aids in its distribution, the whole head breaking off and attaching itself to some passing animal. In China it is a common weed. The drug contains a white crystalline body resembling salicylic acid.
Medicinal Action and Uses:Used by Creoles as a protective covering for wounds, burns, etc. The juice when applied to the skin leaves a coating similar to that of collodion. Creoles call it 'Colle Colle' - Stick Stick.
In China it is used as a remedy for ague, rheumatism, and renal colic; used in Britain chiefly as a cure for ringworm in conjunction with glycerine. Used in Mauritius Islands for syphilis, leprosy, and various skin diseases.
