Description
The leaves can be used cooked or raw, although the leaves are quite prickly and hairy, so only young leaves are used. Leaves are rich in potassium and calcium. Flowers are eaten raw and have a sweet cucumber flavour. Seeds are rich in gamma-linolenic acid. An edible blue dye can be obtained from the flowers.
A common domestic herbal remedy, it is uplifting and soothing. Helpful in cases of fevers and chest problems. It also helps relieve skin complaints and pre-menstrual tension.
