European hoof: description and photo

it herbaceous plant about 30 cm high, known by its Latin name Asarum europaeum L.,got its name from interesting form a leaf very similar to a footprint. The dark green leathery clefthoof leaves are beautiful and shiny in appearance. They are equipped with long petioles and sit in pairs close to each other on low stems that extend from the branched rhizome. It tastes like turpentine. When the clefthoof grows, it completely hides the ground under it, forming a glossy forest carpet, sometimes enough for large space... Blooms european clefthoof in May-June, small brown flowers resembling bells. They have a specific camphor smell, so animals do not eat it. This evergreen herb is common in mixed and deciduous forests of Europe, the European part of Russia, Western Siberia, the Far East, however, it is among the endangered rare species... Clefthoof has many popular names associated with its healing properties: turpentine, earthy incense, hare sheet, feverish grass, hoof, hernia, emetic root, human an ear, ailing, secret grass, wine, root, hairy, base, crippled grass.

Collecting and harvesting European hoof

The rhizomes, roots and leaves of turpentine are common folk remedies. Leaves are harvested with petioles in May, early summer during flowering, and rhizomes with roots in early spring or late autumn. Raw materials can be dried, but mostly they are used immediately for the preparation of tinctures and decoctions. Clefthoof root serves for the preparation of azar oil, which is mainly used in perfumery.

Useful and medicinal properties of the European hoof

Rhizomes and roots of turpentine contain tannins, mucus and essential oil, resins, coumarins, phytosternins, saponins, flavonoids quercetin and kepefol, coffee, coumaric and ferulic acids, the poisonous substance asarone, as well as eugenol, azaronic aldehyde and other substances, ornylacetal ... The plant has a diuretic effect. Infusion of clefthoof rhizome is used for diseases of the liver, bladder, dropsy, jaundice, as an expectorant and emetic. An aqueous infusion of turpentine leaves contributes to a significant narrowing of blood vessels, an increase in blood pressure, and enhances cardiac activity. If the infusion is made strong, it will induce vomiting. An infusion of a mixture of roots and leaves helps with radiculitis, pulmonary heart disease and pulmonary insufficiency. It is believed that rhizome tea clefthoof herbs relaxes the intestines, stimulating digestion, therefore it can be used for liver diseases, gastritis, hepatitis.

The use of European hoof in folk medicine

In homeopathy, a tincture is prepared from a fresh rhizome. It will be used for nervous exhaustion, "hot flashes", colds, cold hands. As for doctors, they practically do not use the clefthoof, which cannot be said about traditional medicine. For example, in German folk medicine, a tincture of fresh plant rhizomes is used in small doses for asthma, nervous diseases, migraine, hysteria and as an emetic medicine... And in Bulgarian - a decoction of the plant is prepared for the treatment of scabies, washing festering wounds, taken orally for diarrhea and headache.

Folk recipes from European hoof

Exist folk method weaning a person from alcoholism - it is necessary, imperceptibly for the drinker, to pour a tablespoon of decoction of clefthoof rhizomes into a glass of vodka. Such a cocktail will cause severe vomiting and aversion to alcohol. Often this method is effective, but nevertheless, turpentine cannot be used for self-medication, since it contains poisonous substances. An uninitiated person who does not know how to calculate the dosage should not self-medicate.

Contraindications to the use of European hoof

The plant is poisonous, so you can use it for medicinal purposes under the supervision of a doctor.

Side effects and effects of European hoof

In case of an overdose, severe vomiting may open, there is a risk of damage to the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, liver and kidneys.

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In the article, we discuss the clefthoof - its variety of the European clefthoof, description, places where the clefthoof grows, chemical composition and medicinal properties. You will learn how to use a decoction of clefthoof for alcoholism, whether it will help with cancer and how this plant attracts landscape designers.

Clefthoof (Asarum) is a herbaceous flowering evergreen plant of the Kirkazonovye family (Aristolochiaceae). In Russia, the most widespread species is the European or European hoofedhoof (Asarum europaeum).

Clefthoof synonyms are vomit root, wild pepper, emetic, earthen incense, hare root, core, hernia, fever grass, vomit, wine root, hoofed grass, chicken paw, undergrowth, turpentine root, black buttercup, dry aquarius.

What does it look like

Appearance (photo) Clefthoof European hoof is a herbaceous perennial with a branched cord-like rhizome. The height of the clefthoof is from 10 to 15 cm. The short creeping stems of the plant end in two hoof-like leathery leaves that cover the ground with a continuous glossy dark green carpet.

Bell-shaped flowers less than 10 mm in diameter form at the tops of each stem each spring. Due to their size, they are rarely seen on the clefthoof of the European photo. Clefthoof flowers have an original color - brownish-green outside and reddish-brown inside, as well as a unique vanilla smell. It is he who attracts the main pollinators of the plant - ants.

After pollination of the hoofed grass, a fruit appears - a hexagonal box with a huge number of small wrinkled seeds.

Where grows

European hoof is a shade-loving plant that prefers clay and loamy soils, rich in humus. Where does the European clefthoof grow:

• deciduous and spruce-deciduous forests;
• thickets of hazel;
• spruce, aspen and birch forests in the north.

The clefthoof has a European distribution area - the European part of Russia, the south of Western Siberia, Ukraine, Belarus and Altai.

Clefthoof root

In medicine, the root and leaves of the clefthoof are used The plant is almost completely considered a medicinal raw material, however, in folk medicine, the root of the clefthoof and its leaves are used.

Chemical composition

At the roots of the clefthoof, medicinal properties and contraindications are due to the unique chemical composition:

• glycosides of the cardiac group;
• alkaloid asarin;
• tannins;
• resinous substances;
• slime and tar;
• starch;
• organic acids;
• essential oils;
• flavonoids;
• phenolcarboxylic acids.

Healing properties

European Clefthoof root has a broad pharmacological effect:

• expectorant;
• emetic;
• hemostatic;
• calming;
• anti-inflammatory;
• laxative;
• antipyretic;
• diuretic;
• anti-sclerotic.

Clefthoof root is used to treat scabies, purulent ulcers and wounds. It regulates the activity of the stomach and the menstrual cycle, helps with cystitis, nephritis, radiculitis, jaundice, hypotension, dropsy, migraine, heart failure, malaria, eye diseases, epilepsy, neuroses and hysteria.

The root of the clefthoof received great fame from alcoholism - the reviews of those who have undergone a course of treatment with a decoction of the clefthoof indicate its high efficiency.

How to collect

In recipes for medicines based on the European clefthoof, the instructions for use include only dried raw materials. The plant contains the dangerous organic compound terpenoid asarone. In large quantities, it causes the death of a person. Drying the clefthoof root significantly reduces the amount of asarone.

If you want to dry the plant yourself, follow the recommendations:

1. Start harvesting roots in the fall or early spring.
2. Sort the raw materials, rinse thoroughly and cut into pieces.
3. Spread the roots out on a clean bedding under a canopy or in an area that is well ventilated and out of rain.
4. Once dry, store raw materials in paper bags or glass jars with tight-fitting lids.
5. If it is not possible to dry the roots outdoors, put them on a baking sheet and dry in the oven at a temperature of up to 50 ° C.

Some recipes require the herb khoof, or rather leaves and flowers. Harvest them in May during the flowering period until mid-June. Sort through the leaves, remove the spoiled ones, and dry in the shade just like the roots. Store separately from roots.

How to apply

Most often, the European clefthoof is used to treat alcoholism. The effect of therapy is reminiscent of the effect of drugs - alcohol blockers. When a person drinks alcohol at the same time as taking the plant, he begins to vomit violently. After several such techniques, a persistent reflex is created in the alcoholic - he feels unwell because of the mere taste and smell of alcohol.

If you properly prepare and use European clefthoof for alcoholism, reviews say that a persistent aversion to alcoholic beverages occurs in a couple of days. Although the timing of the appearance this effect are individual in each case.

Also, a decoction or tincture of clefthoof is popular in the treatment of cancer. In this case, it must be combined with taking a cocktail decoction and do not start treatment without first consulting a doctor.

Decoction for alcoholism

Clefthoof decoction causes a persistent aversion to alcohol The most popular drug recipe is a decoction of European clefthoof from alcoholism based on dried root. He has the most big amount bitter essential oilwhich causes the gag reflex.

Before brewing a clefthoof for alcoholism, make sure that children and other family members do not have access to the broth. Add liquid to drinks or food at the strictly specified dosage. Do not make too much decoction of the hoofed plant from alcohol and do not store it for long.

Keep in mind that vomiting will only start when the person takes alcohol. It doesn't matter where you mixed the root - in cognac, wine, vodka, coffee, soup, porridge or roast. If an alcoholic drinks even a glass of alcohol on the same day, he will feel bad. If he just drinks the hoofed tea, he will feel good all day.

Ingredients:

1. Clefthoof root - 1 tbsp
2. Water (boiling water) - 220 ml.

How to cook: Chop the roots of the plant, cover with boiling water, put the dishes on low heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove the dishes from the stove, cover and leave for 60 minutes, then strain the drink through cheesecloth.

How to use: Add 2 tbsp. for 500 ml of liquid or 500 g of food.

Result: Clefthoof root from alcoholism when mixed with alcoholic drink will cause nausea and vomiting. After a few days, the constant gag reflex causes a persistent aversion to alcohol.

Claw grass from drunkenness is also effective and helps a person to quickly stop drinking. Try to make a clefthoof wine tincture for alcoholism.

Ingredients:

1. Clefthoof grass - 1 tsp
2. Walnut peel - 2 tsp
3. Wine - 4 liters.

How to cook: Grind the herb of the plant and the skin of the walnut fruit. Stir the ingredients and pour in 1 tsp. mixtures with wine. Insist 21 days.

How to use: Give 1 glass 60 minutes before meals 1-2 times a day.

Result: Grass clefthoof from alcoholism weakens a person's craving for alcohol, reduces his alcohol dependence and heals the body.

Broth for oncology (from cancer)

At the 4th stage of cancer, an infusion of hoofed grass helps, if combined with a cocktail decoction. Store this product for no more than 2 days. Be careful with the dosage and preparation schedule, as the plant is poisonous.

Ingredients:

1. Clefthoof grass - 1 tablespoon
2. Water - 1 glass.

How to cook: Grind the herb in a coffee grinder, cover with water and put in a water bath for 30 minutes. Insist the broth for 30-60 minutes. Do not filter.

How to use: Take 1 tbsp. 4 times daily before meals. The course of treatment lasts 3 months, then take a break for 3-4 weeks.

Result: Infusion on the grass clefthoof increases the tone of the body, has a positive effect on the heart, restores the patient's energy and vigor.

Clefthoof in landscape design

The clefthoof is used in landscape designThe hoof in landscape design is in great demand because of its decorative leaves, which form a beautiful low carpet in the garden. It complements other plants well and serves as a spectacular backdrop for ferns, kupena and other shade-loving plants with dull light leaves.

The European hoof looks good next to anemone and forest trees. It is used for mono-planting, planting in the form of flower beds around trees.

Contraindications

It is forbidden to use clefthoof root or grass in the following cases:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• age over 65;
• any form of hypertension;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• nervous or physical exhaustion.

Do not give double dose decoctions and clefthoof tinctures. Otherwise, you will seriously harm a person's health and possibly cause his death.

Classification

Asarum europaeum European gingerbread belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family of the Asarum genus and unites more than 70 plant species.

Varieties

Common types of clefthoof, in addition to the European variety:

• Asarum asaroides - hoofed hoof;
• Asarum campaniflorum - bell-flowered hoof;
• Asarum balansae - Clefthoof Balances;
• Asarum canadense - Canadian clefthoof;
• Asarum macranthum - large-flowered hoof;
• Asarum blumei - Blume's hoof;
• Asarum himalaicum - Himalayan hoof.

For more information about the hoof, see the video:

Clefthoof infographics

Photo of the clefthoof, his beneficial features and application
Clefthoof infographic

What to remember

1. Clefthoof is a herbaceous plant with small hoof-shaped leaves that spreads along the ground in a solid dark green carpet.
2. The chemical composition of the plant includes toxic substances, the concentration of which decreases if the hoofed bird is dried.
3. How to use the clefthoof for alcoholism - add a decoction of the plant to alcohol or to coffee, porridge, roast on the day when the alcoholic is going to drink.
4. For oncology, make a decoction of clefthoof herb and take for 3 months.

The properties of the wild hoof plant have found application in the treatment of ethanol addiction. Despite its poisonous properties, the grass clefthoof helps from alcoholism quite well. This plant is found in the forests of the middle climatic zone of Eurasia. It is also known as hoofed, European clefthoof, black buttercup, azarum, and other names. Perennial plant with a powerful sprawling root system, short stems and large heart-shaped (or spatulate) leaves.

Clefthoof root, like its leaves, has long been used for food poisoning, as the decoction of this plant causes a strong vomiting urge to help empty the stomach. In addition to this, this plant has established itself as effective remedy from drunkenness.

How this herb helps with alcoholism

This plant contains substances that form a persistent aversion to alcohol. With the joint use of a decoction of the clefthoof with alcohol, severe vomiting and aversion to alcohol appear. After several times of joint use, a person's gag reflex to alcohol appears already without a hoof.

Clefthoof

If you regularly give an alcoholic a decoction of a hoofed bird to drink, then he will not be able to drink, since the attacks of nausea and vomiting will be so strong that he will no longer be able to consume ethyl alcohol. This is one of those cases where the treatment of alcoholism can be carried out without the knowledge of the patient.

Some wives secretly add clefthoof infusion to their husbands' alcohol to get rid of drunkenness in the family, and in many cases it really works.

An important advantage of this remedy is the therapy of mental alcohol dependence. Clefthoof causes aversion to alcohol on a psychosomatic level. It no longer seems to a person that drinking is healthy and pleasant. On the contrary, in an alcoholic who has undergone treatment with a hoof, the psychological associations associated with alcohol become unpleasant, negative and shocking. A person begins to feel alcohol as a terrible poison, which he essentially is.

The infusion of this plant can also be used sporadically, as an emetic for alcohol poisoning, or an overdose, when you need to urgently clear the stomach.

The ungulate helps from alcoholism thanks to its valuable chemical composition, which includes a unique healing combination of chemicals. The leaves and roots of the plant contain:

• Bornyl acetate;
• Azaron;
• Methyleugenol;
• Flavonoids;
• Useful amino acids;
• Starch;
• Organic acids and their derivatives;
• Essential oils;
• Tannins and other components.

The effect of this plant on the human body is very multifaceted and has not been fully studied. The ungulate is widely used in medicine for various diseases, including as a medicine for alcohol addiction.

There are many recipes and ways to take European clefthoof for alcoholism. The most effective and proven ones:

• Decoction from the root of the hoofed. The most reliable and powerful recipe. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the dosages so as not to overdo it, since at the root the content of active substances is significantly higher than in the foliage. Boil 1 teaspoon of the crushed root of the plant in 1 glass of water, then brew for half an hour, filter and cool. The broth should be consumed in a tablespoon with food, drink, no more than once a day. You can also add it directly to alcohol.
• Ground root is brewed in a Turk along with coffee. The presence of the clefthoof in the drink is almost imperceptible. You can drink coffee with a clefthoof no more than once a day. 5-10 such techniques are enough for a person to develop an aversion to ethanol.
• Tincture on clefthoof leaves. A teaspoon of crushed dry leaves (sold at the pharmacy) is poured into a bottle of wine and infused for two weeks. Consume 100 ml once a day. After a week of use, a persistent aversion to alcohol is developed.
• The ground root, or crushed leaves of the plant, can be added to hot food in an amount of no more than a quarter teaspoon at a time.

The gag reflex to alcohol will appear only if a person drinks alcohol in parallel with the hoof. As a rule, a person becomes so ill that there is no desire to repeat this state. Such an association is permanently imprinted in the brain and nervous system, and the person does not touch the drink. If you do not drink alcohol, then by itself the clefthoof does not manifest itself in any way.

Clefthoof grass from alcoholism is not suitable for everyone. Due to a severe reaction with alcohol, treatment with this plant is not suitable for people:

• Suffering from liver and gastrointestinal tract pathologies, hypertension, heart disease.
• Having suffered a stroke, heart attack, as well as in the presence of oncological diseases.
• Clefthoof grass is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation in women

Avoiding alcohol

The use of this plant in the treatment of alcohol addiction generally gives a positive result. As a rule, a person only needs a few episodes of joint use of the clefthoof with alcohol in order to permanently acquire disgust and even fear of drinking.

Clefthoof grass has characteristic feature: this is the only plant growing in our area, which, after application, leads to vomiting. It has been used for this purpose since ancient times. After eating or drinking excessively, the herb was inhaled in powder form to induce vomiting in the person and thus emptying the overflowing stomach.

Important!
Before getting acquainted with the medicinal properties of the clefthoof, you should also find out the contraindications. The plant is completely prohibited for pregnant women - there is a high risk of miscarriage when taking it! Clefthoof is also contraindicated for children under 15-16 years old.

Description

European Clefthoof is a perennial herb up to 10 cm high. The creeping root creates branches (on which a new plant grows every year).

The recumbent stem is fleecy and scaly. Leaves (2-4 pieces on one stem) - petiolate, heart-shaped, rounded on top.

The color of the leaves on the upper side is dark green, on the lower side it is lighter. Flowers - about 15 mm in diameter, grow separately on short overhanging stems, practically directly from the rhizome.

The flower has a bulbous shape, consists of 3 petals, concave inward. The flower has 12 stamens (2 rows of 6 stamens). The fruits are oval capsules with seeds.

Where does it grow?

There are about 90 plant species. Growing areas - Eurasia and North America. Most species grow in East Asia... Up to 39 species have been registered in China alone. One species grows in Europe, the European hoof (Asarum europaeum).

In our country, the habitats are represented by lowlands and foothills (about 1360 m above sea level). In some areas, grass is very rare or completely absent. In general, it grows in Europe from Central France to the Central Urals, in southern Europe - only in the mountains.

Interesting fact
The seeds of the plant contain a white mass - a delicacy for ants. It is the ants that contribute to the spread of the clefthoof.

Poisons and others active substances

In particular, Clefthoof root contains a number of substances that provide the plant with healing properties and harm to health:

• silica;
• asarone;
• tannins;
• resins;
• slime;
• starch;
• glycoside;
• organic acids;
• minerals.

Azarone acts irritatingly and muffles the activity of the central nervous system. In the case of uncontrolled intake of the plant, sharp vomiting and diarrhea occurs, irritation of the kidneys occurs, dilation of the pupils; the poisoned person feels great weakness, death occurs in the collapse! In most cases, the contained poisons do not have fatal consequences, they are relatively quickly excreted from the body with vomiting or diarrhea.

How is the grass harvested?

The root is harvested more often (it is harvested in spring or late autumn), less often the leaves (June-July) and the whole plant (August). The rhizome contains the largest amount of active (and toxic) substances.

The grass and root should be dried at temperatures up to 35 ° C. Artificial dryers can be used. During drying, some of the medicinal properties of the herb are lost, but at the same time, toxicity decreases.

For storage, fold the dried raw materials into paper or cloth bags. Keep away from moisture and sunlight.

Therapeutic effects

Don't forget the plant is toxic! Its use is best avoided by supporters healthy way life, using herbs to strengthen the body (it is advisable to choose a more suitable plant).

Clefthoof should be taken with great care, preferably under the supervision of an expert.
Earlier, the European claw was used to induce vomiting, but in these cases it was dosed at the level of toxicity; such an application is not relevant today.

Modern folk medicine sometimes uses the herb to treat dry cough (in smokers) or upper respiratory catarrh. The claw enhances the activity of the heart muscle, relieves pain in sciatica, lumbago, migraine, narrows blood vessels (increases pressure), soothes, acts as a diuretic, increases intestinal motility (eliminates constipation).

Clefthoof preparations

Today the clefthoof is used exclusively in traditional medicine. Due to its toxicity, it is not part of the drugs used in official medicine!

The exception is root powder and dried herb. Both products are sold in the amount of 100 g.

1. "Clefthoof root powder" is recommended, in particular, for women - it is taken with milk (up to 0.5 g - at the tip of a knife - poured into 50 ml of milk) once a day to regulate menstruation.
2. Clefthoof grass is good for men - mix greens with milk; you should get a gruel applied to the groin area (compress time - 1-2 hours). Such a compress will increase potency and help strengthen local muscles.

Traditional recipes and methods of treatment

Caution! Before using clefthoof medicine, consult your doctor! Carry out therapy under the supervision of a specialist.

Most known application herbs today - getting rid of alcoholism. Unfortunately, drunkenness is not shunned, either by men or women ...

Alcoholism treatment

There are 2 therapeutic methods, depending on whether a person wants to get rid of alcohol addiction, or he has to be treated secretly.

Treatment without the knowledge of the patient
Cook 1 tbsp for 5 minutes. crushed root in 250 ml of water. After 1 hour of infusion, strain. Store in the refrigerator. The agent should be added to the alcoholic's vodka (1 tablespoon / 200 ml of alcohol). The full course includes several procedures (about 5-6). This treatment induces vomiting after drinking and an aversion to alcohol.

Conscious treatment
For self-therapy, you can use both the above recipe and prepare a tincture on wine. Mix Clefthoof with Green Rind walnuts (1: 2). 1 tbsp pour 2 liters of wine into the mixture. Leave it on for 2 weeks. Drink a glass 1-2 times a day. During therapy, a number of unpleasant sensations (vomiting, depression). These manifestations force you to stop drinking.

Cough treatment

The herb's benefits include cough relief. To prepare the medicine, pour a handful of dried herbs with 1 liter of boiling water. Take 4 times a day for 1 tablespoon.

Weight loss

By increasing intestinal motility and improving digestion, the plant promotes weight loss. To get rid of excess weight, an infusion of leaves is recommended: 1/6 tsp. pour 250 boiling water over raw materials. After 15 minutes of infusion, strain. Have a drink. Continue the course for 2 weeks.

Eliminate constipation

There are several ways to prepare a medicine for constipation. You can use the recipe above or brew the root: 1/2 tsp. 250 ml of boiling water. After infusion (15 minutes), strain and drink. Stop treatment after constipation has been relieved.

Caution, the plant is poisonous!

Aristoloic acid in the herb is a proven carcinogen (a substance that supports the formation of cancer cells). Azarone is irritating to the entire body.

Contraindications include lactation! Do not use the plant without first consulting your doctor!

Harm is possible in the case of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis and renal problems, kidney disease.

Watch the video, it shows how this plant grows and much more interesting ....

European hoof, widespread in the Central Russian zone and Western Siberia, is a valuable medicinal plant. However, it is necessary to take preparations based on Asarum europaeum raw materials with great caution, since, according to the latest data, this herb contains carcinogenic substances with a delayed action. In decorative gardening, this culture can be used as a ground cover plant.

What does the European clefthoof look like and where does it grow?

Description of the European hoof (Asarum europaeum L.): belongs to the Kirkazonovye family (Aristolochiaceae).

It is a perennial herb with a creeping rhizome and stem, up to 10 cm high. The leaves are dark green, long-petiolate, kidney-shaped, whole-extreme. The leaf shape is specific - reminiscent of a horse hoof print.

The flowers of the clefthoof are of European red-brown color, solitary, low-lying. The fruit is a six-celled capsule. Blooms in May. Bears fruit in June.

Where does the European clefthoof grass grow: it is found in the middle zone of the European part of Russia, Western Siberia, prefers spruce and spruce-deciduous forests.

See what the European clefthoof looks like in these photos:

Growing: the plant needs moist, even moist, loose, neutral or a little acidic soil and a shady or semi-shaded place. Propagated by seed or dividing the bush. Freshly harvested seeds are sown in the summer - first for seedlings, then they dive, and already grown seedlings are planted in open ground... Before sowing, dried seeds need cold stratification for 3 weeks, and only after that they are sown for seedlings; do it better at the end of winter. The seeds germinate in 2-5 weeks. The plant is shade-tolerant, aggressive.

Why is European clefthoof useful?

Used parts of the European Clefthoof: roots and leaves.

The high healing properties of the clefthoof are due to the presence of active substances in the plant. IN different parts contains: asaron - crn., in ef. oil from crn. 30-50%; bornyl acetate-ef. crn oil 12-13%; (trans-) isoazarone - crn .; quercetin (quercitin) - leaf; quercitrin; kaempferol - leaf; caffeic acid - leaf; p-coumaric acid leaf; methyleugenol - in ef. oil from crn. 15-20%; methylisoevgenol - eff. crn oil; alpha-, beta-pinenes - crn. (and); ferulic acid - leaf.

Collection time: leaves - May, rhizome - September.

Collection: the leaves are collected during flowering and air-dried in a well-ventilated area. Rhizomes are dug up in the fall, washed, cut into pieces and dried in air or in dryers at 50-60 ° C. The medicinal properties of raw clefthoof are preserved for one year.

The plant is listed in the Red Books of the Kemerovo, Novosibirsk and Rostov regions, Khanty-Mansiysk autonomous region, Altai and Karelia in Russia.

Application: it is used as an expectorant, emetic, choleretic, analgesic and diuretic. It is prescribed for bronchitis, gastritis with reduced secretory function, for cholecystitis and pyelonephritis.

Clefthoof helps with painful menstruation in young women.

In Siberia, water vapor from the clefthoof was mixed with an equal number of flowers of the sandy immortelle and was taken from jaundice.

It acts on the intestines as a mild laxative, therefore in Europe it was used as an antidote for poisoning.

In European medicine, from time immemorial, the use of the herb of the clefthoof has been practiced to treat diseases of the nasopharynx, for this the root was pounded into powder and inhaled like snuff.

It is believed that long-term intake of clefthoof causes an aversion to alcohol. The pronounced emetic effect of the clefthoof is associated only with the use of alcoholic beverages.

Outwardly, a decoction of the clefthoof is used for lotions for headaches; leaves fresh and crushed - for abscesses; juice is rubbed on the places affected by scabies.

Economic use of clefthoof: in veterinary medicine it is used as an emetic and laxative for livestock. Infusions of clefthoof remove scabies and lichens in horses.

It is impossible to graze animals in places where this grass grows.

Ornamental leaves and the ability to form a beautiful low, dense, shiny carpet in the shade of trees make it possible to use the hoof in landscaping as a ground cover plant. The foliage is beautiful from spring to late autumn.

How to take clefthoof remedies

Recipes for folk remedies based on European clefthoof:

• decoction for scanty, irregular periods: 2 g of chopped roots in 200 ml of water, boil for 10 minutes, leave for 30 minutes, filter. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times daily before meals.
• infusion for bronchitis, bronchial asthma, epilepsy, hysteria, malaria: 2 g rhizomes per 1 cup of boiled water room temperature, leave for 1 hour, filter. Take 2 tablespoons 2-3 times a day between meals.
• infusion as an expectorant: 2 g of chopped roots per 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 2-3 hours, filter, squeeze the raw material. Take 1 tablespoon 2 times a day.
• infusion for epilepsy: 2 teaspoons of dry leaf in 1 glass of cold boiled water, leave for 3 hours, filter. Take 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day.
• decoction for edema as a diuretic: 4 g of dry chopped root per 1 glass of water or milk, boil for 2 minutes, filter. Take 1/4 cup 4 times a day.
• wine tincture for alcoholism (Bulgarian recipe): Mix 1 teaspoon of crushed European clefthoof leaves with 2 teaspoons of green walnut pericarp. 1 teaspoon of the mixture for 4 liters of wine, leave for 2 weeks. Give the patient before meals 1 glass of tincture 1-2 times a day.
• tincture for alcoholism: 5 g of chopped roots per 200 ml of boiling water, boil for 10 minutes. How to take clefthoof tincture: 1 tablespoon per 100 ml of vodka. The course of treatment is until a persistent aversion to alcohol appears.
• infusion for cholecystitis, malaria, as an expectorant for bronchitis: 1 g of clefthoof leaves mixed with flowers of immortelle and ivy budra (1: 1: 1) for 1 cup of boiled cold water, leave for 3 hours, filter. Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day.
• coffee for alcoholism: in a Turkish coffee with boiling Turkish coffee, add 1/4 teaspoon of powdered clefthoof root. Take the drink only in the morning, once every 2 days.

Despite the high medicinal properties, European clefthoof preparations have and contraindications for use:

• The clefthoof is able to increase blood pressure, therefore, in case of hypertension with frequent crises, it is excluded.
• Excessive use of its roots or leaves can cause gastroenteritis and nephritis.
• Clefthoof is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.

Family Kirkazonovye

Clefthoof (Asarum)does not have an exotic appearance, but is an attractive and very valuable plant for the garden. This perennial is able to transform any corner of the site and add its own flavor to the flower garden.

Despite its unremarkable appearance, this culture always becomes an expressive accent of the garden. In addition, this plant has a unique composition, so it can be used for medicinal purposes.

Usually, growing a clefthoof does not cause trouble for gardeners, it is enough just to follow some recommendations for caring for it. Then the lush perennial will delight the eye with its brightness and beauty for a long time.

The homeland of the clefthoof is Africa, North America, Europe, Western Siberia, Western Asia.

Popularly, the clefthoof is known as "forest pepper" because of the specific smell of fresh leaves, which somewhat resembles the smell of black pepper.

Botanical description of the grass clefthoof (with photo)

According to its botanical description, the common hoof is a perennial herb up to 30 cm high. The rhizome is creeping, branching, with a large number of thin long adventitious roots. The stem is thick, branched, brown.

Leaves are rich green, dense, heart-shaped, leathery, smooth, glossy, opposite, entire, with pronounced veins, up to 8 cm in diameter. Attached to a long stem. The width of the leaf plate is greater than the length.

In shape, such a leaf somewhat resembles the footprint of a horse's hoof, hence the name of the plant. There are similarities with the human kidney, as a result of which botanists often call it "kidney-shaped". The stem, leaf petioles and the leaves themselves are strongly pubescent on the underside. With the onset of the cold season, clefthoof leaves change their color to dark green. In early spring, they die off, after which new leaves appear.

Flowers are goblet or bell-shaped, single, bisexual, up to 1 cm in diameter, consist of 3 - 4 petals, can be yellow, pink or brown, formed at the top of the stem. Quite small flowers are often difficult to see behind large leaves. Flowering lasts from April to May.

The fruit is a hexagonal capsule containing seeds up to 3 mm long. It is noteworthy that the smell and taste of the foliage resembles pepper.

The description of the clefthoof plant is supplemented by the photo below for a better idea of \u200b\u200bwhat this culture looks like:

Popular types of clefthoof

In total, there are about 120 species of clefthoof, many of which have found application in ornamental gardening and are used as a dense ground cover that prevents weeds from spreading and successfully hides the shortcomings of the site.

European hoof (Asarum europaeum)

A perennial plant with a long (up to 20-25 cm) cord-like branchy rhizome, which is occasionally located on the soil surface, while acquiring a green color. Stems are creeping, not rising above the soil surface, creeping along the ground, sometimes rooting. At the end there are two leaves on rather thin petioles. The leaves are glossy, rather dense, rounded, deeply carved at the junction with the petiole.

Between the leaves, at the very end of the stem, there is a large bud, covered with thin translucent covers, under them are the rudiments of two future leaves. In the center of the kidney there is a small ball that looks like a pellet with small stamens inside. This is a bud. An amazing foresight of the plant: in advance, already in autumn, future flowers are formed, which will bloom very early in the spring, as soon as the snow melts.

The flowers are brown with a reddish tint, with 3 petals and 12 stamens. After flowering, the flower changes little, its petals do not fall off, they retain their shape and color. By the middle of summer, fruits are formed that appearance do not differ from flowers. The seeds have interesting feature - each seed is supplied with a kind of fleshy appendage of white color. This appendage is a treat for ants. Blooms for 4-7 years of life.

Tailed hoof (Asarum caudatum)

It is an evergreen creeping perennial up to 25 cm high. good conditions grows rapidly and forms a dense fluffy carpet. Leaves are dark green, dense, leathery, smooth, kidney-shaped, can be rounded or pointed at the end, attached to a long petiole.

The upper part with pronounced veins, the lower part is covered with fine villi. The length of the leaf plate is 5 - 10 cm, width 10 - 15 cm. In the photo of the caudate claw below, it can be seen that the flowers are single, brown-violet with a pale pharynx and narrow petals elongated to the top.

Flowering begins in the third decade of May, lasts until the first decade of June. This view possesses high frost resistance, is able to withstand frosts down to -20 degrees. Suitable for planting in central Russia. In severe winters with little snow, the roots can freeze slightly, but with the onset of warm spring days, the plant quickly recovers. A feature of the species is its ability to grow rapidly and dominate among other ground cover.

Siebold's Hoof (Asarum sieboldii)

This popular species of clefthoof, unlike others, has a short rhizome. Represents small rounded bushes up to 20 cm high. The leaves are reniform, can be pale green and gray-green. By the winter season, this clefthoof sheds its leaves.

Flowers of a violet hue, formed in the leaf axils, rather small, up to 1.5 cm in diameter.

Canadian Hoof (Asarum canadense)

Herbaceous perennial with a large fleshy rhizome. Stems are branching, creeping. Leaves are cordate, dark green. The flowers are claret-purple, with three sepals accreted at the base, slightly pubescent. Flowering begins in April and lasts until June.

Shiny Clefthoof (Asarum splendens)

One of the most spectacular types of clefthoof. It has rich green elongated heart-shaped leaves, on the surface of which a silvery-gray pattern is applied. The flowers are small, with three fused burgundy-brown petals. They resemble tree bark in color.

Large clefthoof (Asarum maximum)

It features beautiful bright green leaf plates with a marble pattern on the surface. The flowers are three-petal, slightly pubescent, have a black border around the edges and a white central part.

How does the perennial gingerbread plant reproduce?

In nature, this perennial plant multiplies and spreads mainly vegetatively (as the daughter sections of the rhizome are separated, when the old sections die off, the previously 48 integral individual turns into a clump with segments of stems rooting at the nodes) and seeds propagated by ants eating a fleshy white appendage. Overgrowth occurs with the growth and rooting of annual growths of shoots, which usually occurs at the end of the growing season, after which they lie down and become part of the creeping rhizome.

In horticulture, two ways are known how the clefthoof reproduces: by dividing the bushes in April or by seeds in autumn and spring. In the fall, seeds are sown in open ground immediately after harvest. Before spring sowing, the planting material is stratified for 3 months, keeping in cool place at a temperature not higher than 5 degrees. The first shoots appear 2-4 weeks after sowing, these will be two leafy, rich green cotyledons. Young plants develop very slowly, and only after a year the first leaf will form.

It is more expedient to propagate the clefthoof by dividing the bush. If this culture is not on the site, you can choose a large, well-grown bush in the forest. If there is one already, you should dig it up, carefully divide it into parts so that each delenka has a sufficient number of shoots and roots. Landing is immediately carried out on permanent place, after which the seedling is watered abundantly. The distance between the divisions should be about 35 cm.

After planting clefthoof seedlings in the open ground, care is carried out that will help young plants adapt to a new place, successfully root and continue their growth and development.

Outdoor clearing after planting

Clefthoof is an unpretentious plant, but it has its own characteristics. This culture is able to grow in one place without transplanting for about 30 years. All species of this plant develop slowly, and flowering occurs only 5 years after planting. The gardener should take into account that the ideal conditions for growing clefthoof are those that are as close as possible to forest ones.
Location. Clefthoof grows best in shade and partial shade, so you need to choose a place on the site where the plant will always be closed from direct sunlight. You can plant it under trees with spreading crowns.

The soil. Any garden nutrient soil is suitable for it. They must be loose, moderately moist, with neutral acidity or slightly acidic.
Watering. Regular watering is necessary for the clefthoof, since with a lack of moisture it withers and loses its decorative effect. Abundant irrigation is recommended in hot weather and prolonged drought.
Frost resistance. The European hoof has high frost resistance, therefore it hibernates successfully and is not damaged. Some species, such as brilliant, are intended to be grown in warm climates. When planting them in central Russia, you should take care of shelter by preparing spruce branches, sawdust, dry leaves or dense material for this.

Applying Clefthoof flowers in the garden (with photo)

At first glance, an unremarkable clefthoof is valuable ornamental plantwidely used in landscape design. This culture is universal. It helps to decorate the flower garden, complement garden compositions, hide the unaesthetic corners of the site.

The hoof is planted along the paths and curbs. With its help, they decorate the near-stem zone of trees. It grows widely, gradually forming a dense, lush carpet and leaving no room for weeds.
This culture looks advantageous both in single and group plantings, as well as in the foreground of a rabatka. The plant has found application in mixborders - the lower tier and in the foreground of the shady area. The gingerbread creates a bright green shiny background against which plants with openwork matte foliage look spectacular: ferns, daylilies, swimsuits, anemones, kupens, white flowers, redwoods, rogers and many others.

The hoof retains its decorative effect from early spring to late autumn.
All parts of this plant have healing properties. Leaves and shoots are rich in vitamins, tannins, valuable acids and essential oils. Due to its rich composition, the clefthoof has long been used in folk medicine. It is used for headaches, colds, vomiting, as well as for the treatment of alcoholism.
Attention! Clefthoof essential oil contains a twisted volatile substance - asarone, so it should be used with great care.

Take a look at a selection of photos with hoofed grass presented on this page, where this simple forest plant is demonstrated in all its beauty:

European hoof belongs to perennial evergreens of the Kirkazonov family. You can find other names for it - this is wild ginger, emetic root, wild pepper, undergrowth. Biological description gives brief description plant, and also classifies it as a medicinal herb, based on the pharmacological properties and composition of substances and elements that the gingerbread contains.

This plant belongs to the ground cover species, which covers the ground under the trees with a dense thick carpet. Maximum height the stem does not exceed ten centimeters, and it is painted in a brownish tint. Opposite leaves are formed at the tips of the stem, and between them, almost at the very ground, there is a flower bud. Clefthoof grass differs in that its long-petiolized, broad-bud and whole-edged leaves are painted in a green gloss from above, and the bottom of the leaves has a matte muted shade. Leaves persist throughout the winter.

European Clefthoof has a well-developed branchy and creeping rhizome.

The plant blooms in spring, depending on the air temperature, the flowers can bloom in late April or early May. They are tinted dark purple on the inside and brown on the outside. The flowers are single and small enough, since they are located on the stem almost near the ground, it is quite difficult to immediately notice them under wide green leaves.

Natural habitat is Eastern and Western Siberia, Karelia and the Murmansk region of Russia. In large numbers, the European gingerbread grows in mixed and deciduous forests, in conifers it is much less common. The best soil for him it is loamy and clayey soil.

The description of the plant makes it easy to distinguish it among the forest variety of herbs. If on the way there was a creeping stem with dense leaves resembling the shape of an animal's hoof, then you can be sure that this is a European clefthoof. An additional sign that definitely cannot be confused with other plants is a specific bitter smell, reminiscent of pepper. It is enough to pick a leaf and rub it in your hands. And the smell will become clearly pronounced.

Application

The plant is widely used in various areas of human life. For many centuries it has been used by healers as a remedy for various ailments. Today, thanks to modern developments and pharmacological research, the composition of the herb has been deeply studied, as a result of which the plant is actively used not only in traditional medicine, but a number of medicinal preparations are made on its basis.

In alternative medicine, the roots and leaves of the clefthoof are used. You can prepare them yourself. Highest concentration nutrients in the roots in spring or autumn. Leaves can be harvested only during the period of active flowering of the plant.

European hoof is used as a good choleretic, diuretic, laxative, expectorant, antihelminthic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic agent.

Traditional medicine has long used the plant as an effective remedy for alcoholism. It is also used in case of impaired activity of the kidneys, liver, malfunctions of the digestive system and respiratory organs.

There is also an effective effect of the use of the clefthoof in heart disease, which has been proven by official medicine and nowadays injection solutions based on the root of the clefthoof are being made.

This is only part of the ailments for which the European clefthoof is used. Traditional medicine has a large number of recipes for the treatment of various diseases with this drug. However, it is worth noting that this plant is poisonous and therefore you need to consult a doctor before using it.

Today the European clefthoof is widely used as a ground cover grass in landscape design. We have already noted the structural features of the plant. Dense green leaves with a glossy shade, densely covering the soil, look great on any flower beds, alpine coaster... Today it is planted as a single plant, under gentle trees, and in flower beds with spring flowers. Elementary care in combination with high external data make the European clefthoof quite popular among landscape designers and novice gardeners.

Growing and care

European hoof is one of the unpretentious ground covers that is used for decoration garden areas... Its planting and subsequent care does not require special skills, so even the laziest gardener can easily cope with these processes.

Clefthoof should be planted in light soils. If the ground where it is planned to place the clefthoof is heavy, then it must be diluted with part river sand and peat. Otherwise, there are no special requirements. In order for the grass to develop quickly and well, it needs moisture, fertile soil and a little sun. European Clefthoof grows well in the shade. Therefore, maintenance should include regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months.

It is also recommended to carry out periodic feeding organic matter... The European hoof reacts favorably to humus and mullein. Such care will allow you to grow an even thicker and more juicy green carpet.

The clefthoof is actively developing and growing. Therefore, from time to time it will be necessary to restrain its spread outside the territory allocated to it.

European Clefthoof, due to its composition, which includes certain essential oils, is not afraid of garden pests and has good immunity against diseases. Therefore, gardeners will not have any problems with this.

As you can see, caring for a hoof is incredibly simple. It does not require much time or effort.

The European hoof reproduces well. The main breeding methods are:

• seeds;
• shoots;
• dividing the bush.

Since the clefthoof has a unique ability to reproduce independently, the gardener should apply special efforts don't have to.

Its seeds are small, ripen in seed pods under the leaves and are actively carried by ants over long distances. Therefore, you can often notice the appearance creeping grass in an absolutely remote place from the main landing. You can collect seeds and plant them in the ground. But before sowing, they must undergo stratification. Therefore, it is best to plant them in the fall, then during the winter they will ripen, and in the spring they will delight with friendly shoots. If you plan to plant clefthoof seeds in the spring, then they need to be kept in the refrigerator for sixty days.

But if you need to plant a clefthoof in a new flowerbed and get a dense carpet and flowers already this season, then gardeners most often use shoots that appear in the summer. They are separated and transplanted to a new location. The same applies to the division of the bush, in early spring or early autumn it is necessary to dig out the bushes and separate parts from it, which are immediately planted in open ground in a new place.

Syn .: butterbur, vomit, plaque, varagusha, wine root, aquarius, money grass, wild pepper, hare root, earthen incense, hoofed grass, hoofed bird, chicken paw, black leaf, feverish grass, simple fragrant coverage, undergrowth, leaf bush, consumable , emetic root, core, turpentine root, dry aquarius, crippled herb, human ear, black buttercup, forest pepper, wild ginger, etc.

Perennial herb with characteristic kidney-shaped leaves grows to form large clumps on the soil in the forest. European clefthoof is a plant with many medicinal properties, in particular, choleretic, diuretic, antihelminthic, laxative, etc.

The plant is poisonous!

Ask the experts

In medicine

The European hoof, due to its toxicity, as such, has no use in official medicine. Nevertheless, official medicine in many countries of the world, including Poland, uses the beneficial properties of the clefthoof in medical practice. For example, the rhizomes of the clefthoof in the form of powder and infusion are used as an emetic and expectorant. Also in Poland on the basis of the plant received the drug "Escarol", which has an expectorant effect. Official medicine also uses a tincture of fresh clefthoof leaves. So, for example, tincture of the leaves of European Clefthoof is a part of the drug "Akofit", used in acute radiculitis and neuralgia. In addition, the clefthoof is recommended in scientific medicine in a number of countries as an effective remedy for chronic cardiovascular insufficiency as an analogue of adrenaline. It has been experimentally proven that clefthoof extract is able to increase heart rate, increase venous tone and reduce the lumen of peripheral blood vessels, thereby increasing blood pressure. In the gynecological practice of some countries, in particular Ukraine, the European gingerbread is used for oligomenorrhea (scanty and rare menstruation) as a means that has a regulating effect in cases of menstrual irregularities.

Contraindications and side effects

European hoof is a poisonous plant. The use of the clefthoof requires special care, as in case of an overdose, it causes vomiting. Therefore, the plant can be used only under the supervision of a doctor. The use of preparations based on European clefthoof is not recommended for children, women during pregnancy and lactation.

In homeopathy

In homeopathy, the medicinal properties of the European clefthoof are highly valued, while the poisonousness of the plant as such does not matter, since the active ingredients in homeopathic medicines are contained in negligible quantities. For example, the original homeopathic tincture "Asarum" is prepared from the fresh rhizome of the plant and different dilutions (not lower than D1) are used for evening "hot flashes", nervous exhaustion, cold hands, colds, etc.

In dermatology

In other areas

The European hoof was also used in the tobacco industry: its aromatic roots were added to some varieties of tobacco. Also, the European hoof at one time served as a source of light brown paint.

Classification

European hoof (lat.Asarum europaeum) is a representative of the ancient tropical family Kirkazonovye (lat.Aristolochiaceae). Directly belongs to the genus Kopyten (lat. Asarum), which, according to various sources, unites 70 (100) species of myrmecochory plants.

Botanical description

An evergreen perennial (5-15 cm in height) with a rather brownish, thick, recumbent stem (up to 30 cm in length) covered with short appressed hairs and a creeping rhizome. The plant has a peculiar smell. Leaves are simple, without stipules, long-petiolate, entire, kidney-shaped (5-8 cm in diameter) with well-defined veins. The leaf blade on both sides is also covered with short appressed hairs, has a specific shape, resembles a horse hoof track, while the width is clearly greater than the length. The overwintered leaves of last year are dark green, leathery, almost naked above, shiny, pubescent below; the young are opposite, lighter, tender, also with long petioles. Between them, almost at the very ground, a flower bud is laid in the fall. The flowers are fleshy, small (about 1 cm), bisexual, solitary, axillary, on short drooping pedicels, regular (actinomorphic), red-brown, usually formed at the ends of young spring shoots. The perianth is 3-membered, has a peculiar goblet shape. Numerous stamens, pistils fused with filaments with a column in a common column. Pistil with a lower ovary flattened from above. The fruit is a capsule. Seeds are about 3 mm long, with a fleshy white appendage. Blooms quite early (April - May). Flowers are pollinated by ants, and seeds are also distributed by them (an example of myrmecochory).

Spread

It is found mainly in the middle zone and in the south of European Russia, as well as in the adjacent regions of Western Siberia. It also occurs in isolation in Altai. It becomes rare in the northern regions.

European hoof is a common species of deciduous and mixed (spruce-deciduous) forests. Often found in hazel thickets. Often forms a continuous ground cover. As it moves to the North, it grows in other types of forests (spruce, aspen, birch). Prefers shady places, humus-rich soils (especially loamy and clayey).

Distribution regions on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

For medicinal purposes, use the leaves collected during flowering, as well as rhizomes harvested in early spring. Raw materials are dried in the usual way in the shade and well-ventilated place, or in dryers at a temperature not exceeding 35 ° C. The finished raw materials are stored in glass containers for one year.

Chemical composition

Chemical composition the European clefthoof has been insufficiently studied, although in different parts plants contain very useful biologically active substances. Roots, rhizomes and grass of the clefthoof contain up to 1% of essential oil, which includes up to 30-35% of asarone and diazorone, 2-3% of azaryl aldehyde, 1-2% of 1-pinene, 12-15% of eugenol, as well as methyleugenol , bornyl acetate, resins, tannins, flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), mucus, starch and organic acids. In addition, glycosides were found in the rhizomes and leaves of the European Clefthoof, and the alkaloid asarin was found in the leaves and roots.

Pharmacological properties

Clefthoof has emetic, sedative, choleretic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antihelminthic, laxative, as well as lactic and adrenoline-like effects.

The ability of preparations from the leaves of the European clefthoof has been experimentally established to improve the work of the heart, enhance heart contractions, narrow peripheral blood vessels, increase blood pressure and venous tone, stimulate the activity of sweat glands, secretory activity of the digestive tract, promote the secretion of gastric juice, and activate intestinal peristalsis. In addition, induce vomiting and have a stimulating effect on the heart.

Application in traditional medicine

European clefthoof is a well-known medicinal plant, which was used more in earlier times than now. Various parts of the plant have been widely used in folk medicine. For example, the clefthoof was used to improve digestion, with gastritis, enteritis, liver diseases, jaundice, dropsy, stomach ulcer, bronchitis, worms, as well as with scanty menstruation. The leaves of the European clefthoof are used in folk medicine for malaria. A decoction of European clefthoof rhizomes is popularly used as an emetic in the treatment of alcoholism and instilling aversion to alcohol. The European clefthoof is used (mainly externally) for various skin diseases, for example, the plant sap is used to rub the places affected by rosacea. Fresh crushed leaves of European clefthoof are applied to boils. With scabies, the affected skin is rubbed with fresh plant juice or tincture of leaves in vinegar. For these skin diseases, a powder from a dried plant is also used (as a dusting powder).

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