Rose of Jericho

As a medicinal preparation, it is reconstituted in water and taken internally for colds, as an emmenagogue (to bring on menstruation), for epilepsy, uterine hemorrhage, and to bring pain relief and support for childbirth. In some places, it is burned as an incense during labor, made into a powder mixed with olive oil and honey, and as a liquid from fresh leaves is used as a treatment for conjunctivitis and other problems of the eye. It has also made its way to Europe where it is used in Christmas celebrations. It is also used medicinally in countries where it does not grow; in Malaysia, it is commonly used for childbirth, where many women purchase herbal preparations directly from traditional midwives.

Its constituents including alkaloids, anastatins, bioflavonoids, glucosinolates, saponins, sterols/triterpenes, and tannins. It also contains a number of elements useful for pregnancy and labor, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron; in particular, calcium and magnesium work together to coordinate and regulate smooth muscle contractions.