Belonging to the Boraginaceae family, this annual or biennial plant measures between 20 and 60 cm. It has a stem with soft hairs which bears flowers in a funnel. Originating from Europe, it is nicknamed viper’s bugloss because its flowers resemble a viper’s open jaw. It is common in the Mediterranean region on wasteland and in hedgerows.

Traditions:

Echium was widely used against inflammatory fevers, pneumonia and eruptive diseases like measles, smallpox and scarlet fever.

Properties:

Viper’s bugloss possesses protective, antiradical and softening properties. Rich in Omega-3 fatty acid and stearidonic acid, it is used as an emollient on sensitive and irritated skins and produces a sensation of comfort and soothing.