Paterson’s Curse
Paterson’s Curse or Purple Viper’s Bugloss (Echium plantagineum) is a type of plantago, originating in Western and Southern Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. It has been cultivated into Australia, South Africa, and USA as well, however, it is considered an unwanted invasive weed in these parts. Due to high concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, toxic to the liver, it is poisonous to grazing livestock, especially those with simple digestive systems, like horses. When taken in higher dosage, it causes weight loss and in extreme cases even death.
The dark green plant with up to 30 cm long leaves has stems that can grow up to 120 cm in length. Its purple blossoms grow in groups and in tubular shapes with five 2 to 5 cm long petals. With its alluring blossoms, it is also sold in cut flower arrangements, but carries many additional qualities within.
Paterson’s curse has been widely appreciated in Australia, South Africa, and Spain since early days as a honey-carrying plant, with blossoms that produce the nectar to stimulate new fertilization in the hive. Its honey is a of distinctive orange colour and a specific taste, however, according to the latest research, it is mixed with other types of honey, produced with the nectar of other types of viper’s bugloss, due to a high concentration of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Oils from the seeds of Paterson’s curse contain a unique proportion of the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and are a useful dietary complement. It is currently considered the best agricultural substitute for some oils, for example, fish oil; a Harvard study has shown they offer a similar effect in lowering the triglyceride levels in blood plasma and liver. It strengthens the immune system, reduces arterial clots, and helps prevent vasoconstriction. Most of all, these fats are essential to skin’s health, their absence causes eczemas, rough skin, and excessive dehydration.
Skin care is extremely important for it is the largest human organ, covering an area of almost 1,8 m2, has an effect of an active biological wall, actively preventing the loss of water, regulating body temperature, absorbing mechanical energy, protecting it from the UV light and provides an antimicrobial effect as a defence mechanism. Therefore, it is essential to nourish and protect it, a task for which Paterson’s curse is perfect for, due to its ingredients.
Namely, it also contains a high level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (14 % linoleic acid, 10 % gama-linolenic acid, 33 % alpha-linolenic acid and 14 % stearidonic acid), invaluable in skin care products. With active omega-3 acids it represents an attractive alternative to the classical oil producing methods.
It increases the skin’s collagen levels, which ensure the support for all tissues and cells, as well as hair, nails, bones, and muscles, by restoring the natural elasticity and flexibility. It stimulates skin’s barrier function and conductivity. With local use, it strengthens the structural proteins and consequently reduces small lines and wrinkles. Linoleic acid has a soothing effect on the flaky skin, hydrates it, prevents dehydration, and increases lipid synthesis. It reduces skin roughness and, in case of exposure to UV rays, its arachidonic acids regulate the process of the widening and differentiation within the epidermis. As an anti-inflammatory agent, it smooths and soothes the skin, and is suitable for healing skin infections. It does, however, not guarantee sun protection.