Ononis spinosa

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ononis spinosa, also known as spiny restharrow or restharrow, is a plant species in the family Fabaceae. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, and is commonly found in dry, sandy, and rocky habitats.

Description[edit | edit source]

Ononis spinosa is a perennial herb with a woody base and spiny branches. The leaves are trifoliate, with oval leaflets that are grey-green in color. The flowers are pink or white, and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a small, hairy pod.

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Ononis spinosa is widely distributed across Europe and Western Asia. It is commonly found in dry, sandy, and rocky habitats, including grasslands, heathlands, and coastal dunes.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Ononis spinosa has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been used as a fodder plant for livestock.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Ononis spinosa is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

While Ononis spinosa is not currently considered threatened, its habitat is being lost due to urban development and agricultural intensification.

References[edit | edit source]


See also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD