About Ixeridium dentatum (Thunb.) Tzvelev
Ixeridium dentatum (Thunb.) Tzvelev is commonly found along roadsides and in wild areas across Japan, Korea, and parts of China. It grows to a height of 20 to 40 centimeters, and produces yellow flowers that typically have five petals, which bloom in spring. This species has a short rhizome, a thin upright stem that branches near the top, and broad, lanceolate leaves. It prefers growing in partial shade. In Japan, this plant is called "nigana", which translates directly to "bitter greens" in English. This common name is not specific to Ixeridium dentatum, however, as other species in the same genus are also called nigana in Japanese. In Japan, Ixeridium dentatum is used as a folk medicine that is said to relieve indigestion and reduce inflammation. The entire plant, including the roots, is used for this remedy. The plant is harvested during its flowering period, then washed and dried before use.
