COCK HEAD
GALEOPSIS TETRACHITE L.
(Labiatae-fam.)
Where it is found: It is found all over our country, in grassy, stony places and fields (as a harmful weed).
Structure: It is an annual herbaceous plant. The stems are 4-angled, hairy, 20-60 cm high. The leaves are opposite, those under the stem are egg-shaped, the upper leaves are spear-shaped, hairy and toothed. The calyx is tubular, has 5 sections, the crown has 5 leaves and two lips. The upper one is helmet-shaped, the lower ones have three sections, the middle section is heart-shaped and there are two horn-like tumors on the upper part of the base. The fruit is dry, shed in 4 oval nutlets.
Parts Used: Plant stems; stems are collected during flowering (July, August). They are dried in the shade or in ovens heated to 40 degrees. The leaves and stems of the dry plant are green, the berries are white or pink, odorless and bitter. % 12 humidity is allowed. Packed in bales. Stored in dry and airy buildings.
Chemical Composition: % contains about 10% silicon acid, % contains about 5% tanning agents, saponins, bitter substances, resin, oily substances, essential oil, wax, etc.
In Which Diseases Is It Used: It has expectorant and astringent effects. It is used in cough, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, etc.
In folk medicine, it is used for spleen disease, pulmonary tuberculosis, malignant anemia, etc.
Usage: 2 tablespoons of the plant is boiled in 0.5 liters of water for 5 minutes, filtered and then a tea glass is taken 4 times a day before meals.
