Launaea sarmentosa   

Launaea sarmentosa's description

Launaea sarmentosa is a creeping, herbaceous, perennial plant producing several branched stems 20 - 90cm tall. The plant grows from a taproot with a trailing shoot bearing lateral roots, with new stems arising from the lateral roots. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine, often as a substitute for the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Launaea sarmentosa's facts

Launaea sarmentosais a native herb to coastal areas in Africa (east coast), Madagascar, the Seychelles, Mauritius, India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

Launaea sarmentosa's Behavior & Ecology

Launaea sarmentosa is a native herb to coastal areas in Africa (east coast), Madagascar, the Seychelles, Mauritius, India, Sri Lanka Southeast Asia and in Maldives. This herb is very common along the seashore and nearby areas of most islands in Maldives. Launaea sarmentosa can grow in altitudes ranging from 0 – 15 m and they are common in the terrestrial areas too.

Launaea sarmentosa's Relationship with Humans

Launaea sarmentosa is utilized as a dietary plant Maldives for centuries in the preparation of dishes such as mas huni. Mas huni is prepared with a combination of tuna, onion, coconut and chilli. The ingredients are finely chopped together and mixed with coconut gratings. This dish is served along with freshly-baked bread (roshi) and sweetened hot tea.