Sheep's Ear

Inula cappa

Physical Characteristics

Inula cappa is a SHRUB growing to 1.8 m (6ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas from Himachel Pradesh to south-western China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiphlogistic Carminative Depurative Expectorant Stomachic Anodyne, antiphlogistic, carminative, depurative, expectorant, dispels clots[147]. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers, indigestion and other gastric disorders[272]. A decoction of the root is used in the treatment of fevers[272]. The decoction is also added to bath water in order to relieve body aches caused by hard physical work[272]. A poultice made from the pounded root is applied to the forehead to relieve headaches[272]. The juice of the bark, mixed with equal quantities of the juice from the bark of Ficus semicordata and Myrica esculenta is used in the treatment of menstrual disorders[272].

Known Hazards

None known