Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear (Cotyledon orbiculata) is a succulent which is indigenous to South Africa.
It flowers during Winter and the pinkish red flowers are welcomed by insects, birds and, of course, us!
As with most succulents, it is extremely drought resistant and ideal in a water wise garden. The plant grows to about 60cm, with flower stalks reaching up to 1.2m.
Pig's Ear grows in full sun and likes sandy soil.
To propagate Pig's Ear, cut a leaf at the base and plant it in sandy soil. Do not overwater or it will rot
TREATMENT FOR WARTS
Rubbing a cut leaf onto a wart is super effective, getting rid of it within 4 – 6 days. Rub the wart every hour or so and the wart will soften and disappear.
Plantar warts, which are hard and flat warts on the soles of the feet, are extremely painful, especially when you put weight on your foot.
Slice a Pig’s Ear leaf through the centre, making two large flat pieces. Place a piece, cut side up, onto the foot, covering the wart. Hold in place with a plaster or a small bandage and leave on as long as possible. It is easiest when you are sleeping – pop a sock on which will keep everything in place. Do this for 7-10 days and the wart should disappear.
AND FOR EARS......
It is also a useful remedy for earache. Warm a leaf and squeeze out the juice. Put 4-5 drops of juice into the ear 3 times a day. Alternatively, warm a leaf and hold it over the ear to relieve pain.
Although the Sotho take the leaf for intestinal worms, it is toxic when taken internally. There are a lot of other herbal remedies which are much safer to use for parasites.
This herb is an attractive addition to any garden, and if yours if an indigenous, water-wise garden, then it is definitely a herb to add to your collection.
Pig’s Ear – Cotyledon orbiculata
POST CATEGORY
Become a
HERB WHIZZ
How do you learn about herbs?
By joining the
Barefoot Herb Club
Where you discover one new herb every single week!
