Fabaceae / Papilionaceae

Aizoaceae
Gisekia pharnaceoides L.
English name:
Local name: Sindhi- Kushta-gandhi, Kirtion, Chapra, Urdu-
Morang,
Balu-ka-sag, Punjabi-
Aluka, Balu-ka-sag.
Description:
Asmall decumbent glabrous soft and fleshy herb of hot and sandy areas; 2.5-3.0 cm
long, variable in form and size. Leaves elliptically elongated, flowers in clusters,
minute variable in colour.
Flowering Period:
August to November.
Habitat:
Found in dry sandy places, propagates by seeds.
Uses:
The plant is used as purgative by local inhabitants, used
for the treatment of thirst, scabies, heart-trouble, urinary
diseases and stomach troubles. It is used as pot herb in
times of scarcity; fresh green leaves are useful for the
expulsion of taenia or tapeworm.
Distribution:
India, Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan and
Arabia.
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