Galbanum

Ferula gummosa

Physical Characteristics

Ferula gummosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

W. Asia - Central Iran, Turkey and southern Russia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The gum resin obtained from the root is used as a celery-like food flavouring[177, 238].

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Carminative Expectorant Stimulant The whole plant, but especially the root, contains the gum resin 'galbanum'[4]. This is antispasmodic, carminative, expectorant and stimulant[4, 46, 64, 238]. It is used internally in the treatment of chronic bronchitis, asthma and other chest complaints[4, 238]. It is a digestive stimulant and antispasmodic, reducing flatulence, griping pains and colic[254]. Externally it is used as a plaster for inflammatory swellings, ulcers, boils, wounds and skin complaints[4, 238].

Known Hazards

None known