Curculigo orchioides

Curculigo orchioides is a flowering plant species in the family Hypoxidaceae. It is commonly known as the Golden Eye-Grass or Kali Musli. This plant is native to Asia, particularly in India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. It is also found in Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Description

Curculigo orchioides is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a short, stout rootstock and narrow, lanceolate leaves. The flowers are small, yellow, and borne in umbels. The fruit is a capsule, containing many seeds.

Uses

Curculigo orchioides has a long history of use in traditional medicine. In Ayurveda, it is used as a tonic, aphrodisiac, and antidiabetic agent. The roots are used in the treatment of various ailments such as sexual disorders, inflammation, and urinary tract infections.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Curculigo orchioides is also used in culinary applications. The roots are edible and are often used in the preparation of pickles and curries in some regions of India.

Cultivation

Curculigo orchioides prefers a warm, humid climate and well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seeds or by division of the rootstock. The plant is harvested for its roots, which are dug up in the winter months.

Conservation Status

Due to overharvesting for its medicinal and culinary uses, Curculigo orchioides is considered a threatened species in some of its native regions. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and propagate this valuable plant species.

See Also

• Hypoxidaceae
• Ayurveda
• Medicinal plants

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