Graceful cattail (Eryngium campestre)

Graceful catnip, also known as toito, man's faith, windflower or royal cabbage, is a perennial plant that is most commonly found in dry grasslands, hillsides and fallow fields. This beautiful herb from the myrrh family blooms with blue flowers from July to September and can grow up to 70 centimetres tall. It is characterised by its open inflorescence structure and slightly prickly leaves that resemble those of thistles.

The plant is not only a beautiful ornamental plant, but also has many medicinal and food uses. It has been widely used in ancient folk medicine, especially for its diuretic and sweating effects. Infusions from the root of the spearmint were used in urinary tract diseases. The plant is also used in the cosmetic industry, where it is an ingredient in various natural creams, ointments, oils and shampoos that are designed for skin care. There are also interesting uses in the food industry. Although it is still little known here, in some countries, such as France, the young leaves of this plant are used to make a traditional spring soup.