used in European herbal medicine, regarded as having a restorative action on the kidneys, supporting and strengthening their function.

used as a glass cleaning material in the Land of Israel in the Middle Ages.
the silica content of the plant and the mild abrasive quality of the dry herb made it a practical glass and surface cleaner.

traditionally employed to alleviate kidney and bladder stones and other complaints of the urinary system such as uti's, cystitis and nephritis.

pancreatic lipase inhibition is the mechanism of the pharmaceutical weight loss drug orlistat (blocking fat absorption from the intestine). alpha-amylase inhibition reduces starch digestion and postprandial glucose spikes.

cytotoxic effect against HeLa cell line confirmed apoptosis induction.

leaves applied topically to reduce itching and inflammation for eczema and dermatitis. poultice from scalded leaves applied to skin inflammations, burns, and wounds to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

prevents the structural alteration of proteins that drives inflammatory damage in arthritic joints.

used to treat respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and hay fever. the demulcent mucilaginous fraction soothes bronchial irritation.

the plant can grow in almost any crack in stone or brick — making it a useful green wall-covering plant in urban environments with minimal soil.

pollen is one of the most significant airborne allergens in Mediterranean Europe, and people with respiratory allergies should completely avoid this plant.