ENGLISH NAME: Camelthorn
LATIN NAME: Alhagi maurorum
LOCAL NAMES:
Georgia: ცერცვეკალა
COUNTRY: Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Kartli, Kakheti, Kiziki (Georgia); arid regions of Turkey
Elevation: Lowlands to semi-desert uplands
Terrain: Dry, sandy or gravelly soils; desert/semi-desert steppes
DESCRIPTION:
A spiny perennial shrub 1–2 m tall in the pea family (Fabaceae). Woody,
branching stems bear sharp thorns. Leaves are small, compound, silvery-green.
Summer brings clusters of small, reddish-purple pea-type flowers, followed by
long legume pods.
USABLE PARTS: Leaves; roots;
seeds
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Leaves:
Anti-inflammatory—infusions used for swelling and pain relief.
Roots: Diuretic—decoctions
promote urine flow.
Seeds: Traditionally
used in poultices or oils for wound healing.
General: Anecdotal
antioxidant, antimicrobial, and blood-sugar-modulating effects; more research
needed.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. High intake can upset
digestion (nausea, diarrhea). Thorns pose a physical hazard.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Use caution with other diuretics or blood-sugar-lowering medications. Avoid
combining with strong anti-inflammatories without guidance.
PREPARATION:
Leaf Infusion: Steep a handful
of fresh or 1–2 tsp dried leaves in hot water for 10–15 min; strain.
Root Decoction: Simmer 1–2 tsp
chopped root in 1 cup water for 15–20 min; strain.
Seed Poultice: Grind seeds to
powder, mix with a little water or oil; apply topically.
Tincture (All
Parts):
Macerate chopped plant material in alcohol (1:5 ratio) for 4–6 weeks; strain.
HARVEST TIME:
Leaves: Spring to early
summer
Roots: Late autumn or
early spring
Seeds: Late summer to
early autumn
HARVEST METHOD:
Leaves: Snip healthy
shoots with clean shears, leaving ample foliage for regrowth.
Roots: Carefully dig
around the base to lift a portion of root mass; leave part intact.
Seeds: Shake ripe pods
over a clean container or hand-collect when dry.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Drying: Air-dry leaves,
roots, and seeds separately in a shaded, ventilated area until brittle.
Storage: Keep fully dried
material in airtight glass jars in a cool, dark place. Check periodically for
moisture or pests.