Ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus)
| Ulam raja | |
|---|---|
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| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | wild cosmos |
| Family: | Compositae |
| Binomial name | |
| Cosmos caudatus |
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Ulam raja, literally meaning "the King’s salad", was brought by the Spaniards from Latin America, via the Philippines, to the rest of Southeast Asia.[1] Ulam, a Malay word used to describe a preparation that combines food, medicine and beauty is the widely popular Malay herbal salad. As a Malaysian delight, it is served throughout the country from major hotels for tourists to buffet lunches or dinners for the locals.
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[edit] Description
Ulam Raja is an annual plant growing up 2 m in height. The leaves are soft and pungent while the stem is light green with a purplish hue and succulent. As night falls the leaves fold to close the terminal buds as the plant literally sleeps. The flowers can be found solitary or in a loose clusters and are produced on a single stalk on auxiliary heads.[2]
[edit] Traditional uses
The Malay people believe that the herb is good for health and contains anti-aging properties or awet muda, and that it tones up blood circulation, strengthens the bones and promotes fresh breath.[citation needed]
[edit] Notes
- ^ Bodeker, G. (2009). Health and Beauty from the Rainforest: Malaysian Traditions of Ramuan. Kuala Lumpur: Didier Millet. ISBN 978-981-4217-91-0
- ^ Hassan, Dr. W. E. (2006). Healing Herbs of Malaysia Kuala Lumpur: Federal Land Development Agency. ISBN 978-983-99544-2-5
[edit] References
- Hassan, Dr. W. E. (2006). Healing Herbs of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur: Federal Land Development Agency. ISBN 978-983-99544-2-5
- Bodeker, G. (2009). Health and Beauty from the Rainforest: Malaysian Traditions of Ramuan. Kuala Lumpur: Didier Millet. ISBN 978-981-4217-91-0
