Łódź, Botanical Garden

It is native to temperate Eurasia, but has been introduced to North America as well as to the other suitable areas. Edible plant - young leaves raw or cooked; seeds cooked, used like sago. Herbal plant - the seeds owe their laxative properties to a polysaccharide that is very hydrophilic, they absorb much water and form a gel that increases stool bulk, stimulates peristalsis and facilitates bowel movements; the leaves, seeds and roots contain caffeic acid and its derivatives; roots are a remedy for the bite of rattlesnakes; seeds are used in the treatment of parasitic worms.