Musk Root

Ferula moschata

Physical Characteristics

Ferula moschata is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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 - Turkestan to Tibet.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. By. South Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum None known

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Dysentery Nervine Stimulant Tonic Women's complaints The root and the rhizome are antispasmodic, nervine, stimulant and tonic[4, 46, 61]. The medicinal action resembles that of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) and the plant is used in the treatment of various hysterical conditions[4, 238]. It is also believed to have a specific action on the pelvic organs and is used in treating dysmenorrhoea and a wide range of other feminine disorders[4]. The root is also a stimulant to mucous membranes and is used in treating chronic dysentery, diarrhoea, bronchitis and even pneumonia[4].

Known Hazards

None known