Spreading pellitory (Parietaria judaica) is native to the Eastern Mediterranean and neighbouring regions. It is a perennial plant that spreads easily and is considered to be a weed in some situations. It can grow in in places unsuitable for other plants such as in pavements and in gaps between bricks in walls. Its tolerance to…
Nettles, including the common stinging nettles, belong to the genus Urtica. They are usually annuals and have a long history of use both in traditional medicine and as a foodstuff. The most familiar of the nettles is the stinging nettle which has hairs on its leaves which, on contact with the skin, act like hypodermic…
Borage (Borago officinalis) is native to the Mediterranean region but also grows well in other more temperate climates. Its leaves can be eaten as a salad vegetable or cooked, and the plant is also nowcultivated for the oil from its seeds. There are a number of historical references to the medicinal uses of borage. The…