Oman coastal (Inula Crithmoide)

Other names: Limbarda crithmoides, golden samphire, golden samphire

Oman seaside (Inula crithmoide), alternatively known as Limbarda crithmoides, golden samphire or golden samphire, is a plant of the genus Oman, belonging to the star family. It is mainly found in coastal areas from Scotland to the Mediterranean and Iran. It is an annual to perennial succulent with a woody stem and needle-like leaves. The flowers are yellow in colour and arranged in compound umbels. It flowers from June to September.

Due to its pleasant taste and aroma, Oman seaside is often used in culinary and liquor making. The young shoots and leaves are used for salads and sauces, but also as a flavouring for many types of fish and seafood. It is typical of Mediterranean and Breton cuisine. In traditional medicine, this plant was used to treat skin diseases and respiratory problems. In the cosmetics industry, Oman sea is popular for its healing and regenerative properties, so it can be found in many creams, masks and skin balms. As it is a succulent plant, it is also popular as a decorative plant, especially in stone walls and rockeries.