Before starting to talk about the medicinal properties of marine cineraria, it is important to demystify about its natural habitat. Even with the name implying that it is an aquatic plant, the species is an ornamental plant, well known by North American gardeners.Marine cineraria belongs to the Asteraceae family. Historical evidence points to the Mediterranean region as the cradle of the species. Over the years, it was cultivated in other locations, starting to be found in mountains and mountains of temperate climate.

It has silvery gray leaves, yellow or white flowers, grows like a thicket and reaches up to 80 cm in height. In some parts it may be known as a dust miller.

medicinal properties

Despite being little explored, marine cineraria has many medicinal properties. This is due to the active principles that can be found in the plant, including: antispasmodic, antihysterical, anti-inflammatory, healing, decongestant and emmenagogue.

For this reason, its use is indicated to treat conjunctivitis, inflammation, eyelid swelling, irritated and tired eyes, restore blood flow and soothe pain. It is also used as the raw material for eye drops that fight cataracts.

Precautions regarding the use of the plant

Marine cineraria contains a high concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known for their hepatotoxic effects. Therefore, medicinal use in the plant must be done under strict medical prescription. Since, the ingestion of any drink prepared with the plant can cause liver problems.

How to use marine cineraria

The preparation of the tea should only be used in compresses, under medical prescription. To prepare it, you should use a tablespoon of leaves and flowers and a glass of boiling water. Put the herb in a container and pour in the hot water right away. Cover and let stand until cool a little. Application is recommended with cotton, over the eyelids in compresses, for 15 minutes.