Family Name: Scrophulariaceae
Botanical Name(s): Chelone glabra
Popular Name(s): Snake-head, Turtle-head, Turtle-bloom,
Shellflower, Bitter Herb, Chelone Obliqua, White Chelone, The
Hummingbird Tree
Parts Used: The complete herb
Habitat: Balmony is found in the eastern United States and
Canada.
Description: Balmony is an herbaceous perennial plant which
grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet. The plant bears opposite, oblong, dark
green, pointed leaves. Its flowers bloom from July to September and are
generally white in colour. The plant bears fruits which are in the form
of ovoid capsule.
Uses: Balmony is used as a cholagogue, hepatic, anti-emetic,
stimulant, laxative, antheimintic substance. It is used to cure
indigestion, general debility, constipation and liver. Externally, the
herb is used to cure sores and eczema.
