Heracleum lallii

Physical Characteristics

Heracleum lallii is a PERENNIAL. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas in central and western Nepal.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Anthelmintic Antiinflammatory The root is used in Tibetan medicine, where it is considered to have a bitter and acrid taste with a neutral potency[241]. Analgesic, anthelmintic and anti-inflammatory, it is used in the treatment of contagious diseases, swelling/pain in the joints and arthritis[241]. It is also used in the treatment of all types of pain, toothache and the inability to micturate or defecate[241].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, many members of this genus contain furanocoumarins. These have carcinogenic, mutagenic and phototoxic properties[200]. Skin contact with the sap of some members of this genus is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people[218].