Zygophyllum simplex, synonym Tetraena simplex,[1] commonly known as hureim or simple-leaved bean caper, is a halophytic flowering plant that is distributed in arid regions of the Western Asia and Africa. It is an annual and has a history of being used in Arabic folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory.[2]
Description
Zygophyllum simplex is a highly branched succulent plant that stands from 8 to 20 cm tall. It has fleshy, simple leaves that are oblong-cylindric in shape. It flowers from August to May and presents with yellow petals.[3]
Distribution and habitat
Zygophyllum simplex is distributed throughout West Asia and Africa. It can be found as far east as India.[3] The most common habitats are shrub-steppes and deserts and it grows best in salty conditions.[4] In Qatar, it is known locally as daa or hureim (also spelled harm) and is a frequent sight on rocky desert plains.[5]
References
- ^ a b "Zygophyllum simplex L." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2025-02-03.
- ^ Hossam Abdallah; Ahmed M. Esmat (2017). "Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the major phenolics from Zygophyllum simplex L.". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 205: 51–56. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2017.04.022. PMID 28465252. S2CID 4305115.
- ^ a b "Zygophyllum simplex". Flora of Pakistan. Retrieved 14 June 2019.
- ^ "Tetraena simplex (L.) Beier & Thulin". Flora of Israel Online. Retrieved 14 June 2019.
- ^ "Tetraena simplex (L.) Beier & Thulin". Flora of Qatar. Retrieved 14 June 2019.
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