European Millet

Panicum miliaceum

Physical Characteristics

Panicum miliaceum is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. 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 and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Probably eastern Asia, but it has been in cultivation so long that the original range is obscure.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked as a whole grain or ground into a powder and used as a flour for making breads, pasta and fermented foods such as 'tempeh'[2, 34, 183]. A nutty flavour, it is more easily digested than many cereals because its high alkaline content counteracts acids[183]. It is also free of gluten and so, although bread made from it does not rise, the cereal is suitable for people with coeliacs disease or other gluten intolerances[K]. The seed can also be sprouted and added to salads, soups etc[183]. The seed contains about 10% protein, 4% fat[61].

Medicinal Uses

Demulcent Poultice Refrigerant The seed is cooling and demulcent[218]. The cooked seed is applied as a poultice for abscesses, sores etc whilst juice from chewed seeds is applied to children's sores[218]. The seed is also incinerated and mixed with oil then used as a poultice that is said to heal sores without leaving a scar[218]. A decoction of the root is used as an antidote to poisoning by Momordica spp, it is also used to treat haematuria in women and as a bath for skin eruptions[218].

Known Hazards

None known