Dipsacus Asper

Other names: Teasel, Dipsacus asperoides

Dipsacus Asper, also known in English as Teasel and in Latin nomenclature as Dipsacus asperoides, is an herb native to the dipsacaceae family. It grows natively in areas of East Asia, specifically China and Korea, and is known for its distinctive flower heads with sharp spines. Dipsacus Asper can reach up to two metres in height and its stem and leaves are covered with small thorns. It usually flowers from July to September, when purple flowers appear on stalks up to 10 centimetres high.

The plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine, even ranking among the fifty essential herbs used for healing. The root of this plant is most often dried and ground into a powder, which is then used to make medicinal teas and drinks. According to traditional medicine, the herb has significant tonic effects and promotes liver and kidney health. Dipsacus Asper is thus sought after for the treatment of liver disease or arthritis and is also included in products to support immunity. In addition to medicine, this plant is also used in cosmetics, mainly due to its anti-ageing effect. It is a component of many anti-aging creams and other skin care products. Despite its sharp and rugged exterior, Dipsacus Asper actually has many benefits for human health and well-being.