The root is a pungent acrid herb that stimulates the salivary
glands and irritates the tissues, thereby increasing blood flow
to the area. It is used externally to treat toothache, facial
neuralgia and chronic catarrh. A gargle is used to soothe sore
throats. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later
use. In Ayurvedic medicine the root is considered to be tonic
and is used in the treatment of paralysis and epilepsy. The diluted
essential oil in the root is used in mouthwashes and to treat
toothaches. This oil should not be used internally, except under
professional supervision.
Requires a well-drained soil in full sun. Plants are intolerant of excessive wet, especially in the winter, and will do better if covered by a pane of glass in the winter. This species is hardy to at least -5°c, probably more if the ground is very well-drained.
Seed - requires about 3 weeks cold stratification. Germination is best at a temperature around 13 - 16°c. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Cuttings of softwood in the spring.