Herniaria glabra (Herniaria glabra)

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The baldcypress, or also selenium, is an annual to perennial plant belonging to the honeysuckle family. It is native to Europe, where it occurs naturally in drier places such as sandhills, hillsides or roadsides. It can grow to a height of 5 to 15 centimetres and has thin, creeping stems covered with small, ovate leaves with entire margins. The flowers are small, yellow and form dense, sessile spikes. Selenium is known for its medicinal properties, especially in traditional folk medicine.

For example, selenium is a key ingredient in some herbal mixtures to promote detoxification of the body. It is also used in cosmetics, where its extract is a component of skin creams, emulsions for sensitive skin or products for problem skin care, where it helps reduce acne symptoms. Its active ingredients are also used in the production of ointments for eczema, ulcers or other skin problems. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, it can help to regenerate damaged skin and relieve allergy symptoms. Other uses of this herbal remedy are found in the field of homeopathy, where selenium is one of the important ingredients. It is also a valuable source of vitamin C and minerals. Although it is protected in the Czech Republic, it is also grown commercially for medicinal purposes.