Instep (Marchantia polymorpha)

This plant forms a sort of upper-hence its name-that extends along the ground and on rocks in moist shady areas. It consists of a sort of lobed leaf shape, elongated green, are quite meaty and juicy and are so close together that is difficult to isolate from each other. Can be found throughout the country, both north and south of the peninsula. Normally this type of plant, like all mosses, were raised in areas near a fountain, stream or similar, since they need high humidity and shade areas with enough to reproduce.

FLOWERING

Mosses have no flowers and therefore can not speak of a flowering season. The plant is equipped with a kind of media are born reproductive organs. The male organs that contain the disk-shaped, while the female organs are divided into segments. This species reproduces by means of the propagules, which are like buds responsible for the forefoot to spread throughout the soil and rocks. The reproducing apparatus can mature in spring or summer, depending on the area where they are.

APPLICATIONS

For many years it has been used as home remedy in many different conditions. It was placed as a poultice to heal and cure blood spills inflammation of any body part. He took an infusion to cure diseases like jaundice, which gave a yellow color to skin, and access of bile. Formerly also used to cure liver ailments. It was used to cure ringworm, and as we said before, extends over the ground like an arch, so could not get better name. Today it is considered that the mosses are not just healing properties, although there are two guys who enjoyed some fame a few years ago as a home remedy, including the instep.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion. It instep boiled with water for 10 minutes, filter and plant remains cool. Honey is added to the infusion, as well as sweeten it adds a lot of vitamins and get better effect through its healing properties. It takes three cups a day.
Poultice. The plant is crushed and placed on a cloth. Preparation is applied over the affected area as a remedy to cut down inflammation and bleeding.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Marchantiaceas
HABITAT: Moist and shady places
FLOWERING: Matures in spring and summer
PART USED: Whole plant
CASTILIAN: Hepática de las fuentes
GALICIAN: Hepática-dos-fontes, escamenta

USES

Moderate Draining, Moderate Hepatic Protector.