Orris Root (Iris germanica) is a botanical plant that has been used for centuries in Ayurveda medicine to prepare various herbal medicines. Its roots act as a blood purifier and enhance the functioning of the excretory system and digestive tract. Orris oil is used to treat conditions like headaches, toothaches, and muscle pain.
Oil is the most valuable and effective part of the orris root. Myristic acid is found in iris root oil. The herb, also known as Iris Pallida, has a pleasant scent. The leaves of the shrub are wide. The herb is often utilized in smells and perfumes because of its nice, sweet scent. Thus, the plant has great value in the perfume sector.
Description
Although orris root prefers cooler climates, it may be grown in warmer climates as long as summer temperatures are not too high, too wet, or too humid.
Botanical Name:
Iris germanica
Family:
Iridaceae
Leaves:
Grayish-green in color, the stiff, sword-like leaves of the Florentine Iris grow in a fan form from the base of the plant and can reach a height of 20 inches. They are distinctly veined throughout their length.
Flowers:
These are big white flowers with a golden center and veining of light lavender. With three upright petals and three drooping sepals (petal-like structures), the flowers exhibit the characteristic iris form. Typically, these irises flower in the spring and early summer.
Root:
The most valuable portion of the Iris germanica is its subterranean portion. The term “orris root” refers to its thick, meaty rhizome. The inside is starchy white, while the exterior has a light brown tint. The portion that is dried and extracted for use in cosmetics, fragrances, and even some medical uses is called the rhizome.
Habitat:
It prefers well-drained soil and is suitable for both light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitability for pH: slightly acidic, neutral, basic, or gently alkaline soils; it can also thrive in extremely alkaline soils. It can grow in full sun, semi-shade, or light forest. It favors either wet or dry soil.
Parts Used:
- Root
Chemical Constituents
Oil of orris (0.1–0.2%), a yellow-white substance containing myristic acid, is the most valuable part of orris root. Sometimes orris oil is marketed as orris butter. A glucoside known as iridin or irisin, as well as fat, resin, starch, mucilage, and bitter extractive, are additional ingredients.
Common Name
Orris-root, Tall Bearded German Iris,Purple Flag, German iris, Bearded Iris
Other Language Names of Orris Root (Iris germanica)
German name – Florentiner Iriswurzel
Italian name – Giaggiolo rizoma
Spanish name – Raíz de lirio
French name – Fleur de Luce
Arabic name – Irsa
Persian name – Susan, Zanbaq
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Subkingdom | Tracheobionta |
| Superdivision | Spermatophyta |
| Division | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Subclass | Liliidae |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris L. |
| SpeciesPlantae | Iris germanica |
Orris Root (Iris germanica) Uses
- Iris germanica has also been used to enhance the body’s ability to transmit electrical pulses and to preserve the health of the nervous system. The powdered roots of the iris germanica herb support healthy nervous system function while boosting a person’s capacity for thought and reasoning.
- Additionally, the plant works well for dental issues including toothaches. Its antibacterial qualities aid in the treatment of cuts, burns, and ulcers. The anti-inflammatory properties of orris roots aid in lessening gum tissue soreness and swelling. You can use iris essential oil to gently massage your gums. This will help to reduce the discomfort.
- Purgative qualities found in the plant’s roots indicate that the herb is effective in treating constipation. In addition to relieving constipation, it also helps with other digestive problems such gas, bloating, burning, and acidity. It keeps the gastrointestinal disruption going while also boosting your appetite. Additionally, it relieves diarrhea.
- The herb has diuretic properties that aid in the body’s removal of harmful waste. Herb increases the rate at which urine is produced.
- The ability of orris roots to cure respiratory issues in people is also beneficial in lessening throat puffiness.
Orris Root (Iris germanica) Benefits
Skin health:
Being a naturally occurring astringent, orris root can aid in toning and tightening the skin. Additionally, it is believed to aid in wound healing and inflammation reduction. Some creams and lotions that cure psoriasis, eczema, and acne contain orris root.
Digestive health:
orris root is used as a digestive aid. It is believed to aid in promoting the synthesis of bile and digestive enzymes, which can facilitate better digestion and ease constipation.
Respiratory health:
Because of its expectorant qualities, orris root may aid in clearing the airways of mucus. This may be useful in clearing congestion and coughing.
Orris Root (Iris germanica) Side Effects
Ingestion:
There is little information on the safety of consuming it directly, even though little amounts used as food flavoring are usually harmless. Particularly dangerous are fresh orris roots and their juice, which can cause severe tongue irritation, stomach pain, vomiting, and even bloody diarrhea.
Skin irritation:
Some folks may also get skin sensitivity with orris root. If you have sensitive skin or if the root is not fully dried and peeled, this is more likely to happen.
Allergic reaction:
Some people may experience an allergic reaction to orris root. An allergic reaction may manifest as a rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing.
Also Read: Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) – Properties, Uses, Benefits, Side Effects
Conclusion
Orris root has been used for “blood-purifying,” “gland-stimulating,” raising kidney function, promoting bile flow, and enhancing appetite and digestion. In addition, it treats skin conditions, diabetes, constipation, bloating, headaches, teethaches, aches and joints, and migraines.
FAQS
What adverse effects does orris root have?
It might result in vomiting, bloody diarrhea, stomach pain, and extreme oral irritation. When rubbed upon the skin: Is it safe to use dried and peeled orris root? There isn’t enough solid information available. However, using the fresh plant juice or root may be dangerous.
What is Iris germanica used for?
The plant also aids in the treatment of bronchitis, spleen swelling, colds, cancer, and increased renal function. The roots of the plant are also administered directly to the problematic area to treat tumors, scars, muscle and joint soreness, and nasal polyps.
What are the benefits of orris root?
In the past, bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea, and dropsy were all treated with orris root tea. It’s still used to improve breath freshness and gum strength. The Root contains cathartic, emetic, and diuretic qualities. Moreover, it can be utilized to treat liver congestion and colic.