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Lycium shawii
The State tree of Israel.
The Desert thorn, Jewish Gharqad Tree, Awsaj tree, or the Arabian boxthorn (Lycium shawii), is a species of thorny shrub adapted to desert environments, and can be found throughout the Levant, Arabian peninsula, and some places in Africa.[1] Within the Zionist Jewish entity of Israel (Judean Republic) it is the designate State tree of the Zion Nationalist Jewish State[n 1].
Uses[edit | edit source]
The stems, leaves and berries are used in traditional medicine. In Yemen, the pounded leaves of this shrub have been used as a cure for eye ailments. The berries have a laxative effect and were used in traditional medicine to relieve constipation and as a diuretic. Livestock eat new growth on the plant.[2]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ G. Miller, Anthony; Morris, Miranda (1988). Plants of Dhofar. p. 276. ISBN 071570808-2.
- ↑ Lycium shawii Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Notes[edit | edit source]
- ↑ “The Official designated Nationalist State tree and Awarded Plant emblem of the State of Israel” respectively
