What is Sirwali Beej (Plumed Cockscomb Seeds):

The scientific name for plumed cockscomb, celosia, comes from the Greek word for "burned." These airy, feather duster look-alikes bear the vibrant colors that aptly fit the name. The exotic plumes make superb dried specimens, retaining their color long after harvest.

Other Names: Plumed Cockscomb

Shades ranging from electric reds, yellows, pinks, and oranges to more subtle sand tones are available. Height ranges from 8 to 30 inches. Bloom lasts from June to October. The tall 21/2 foot celosias include Forest Fire with orange-scarlet plumes and Golden Triumph a golden-yellow. Just shorter is the award-winning Century Series with separate colors of scarlet red (with bronze foliage), rose yellow and cream as well as a mixture of all colors. Miniatures up to 10 inches are found in the Geisha Series and are especially fluorescent in carmine red orange scarlet yellow

Uses:

  • The seed of the plant are astringent, haemostatic, ophthalmic, parasiticide and poultice.
  • They are used in the treatment of bloody stool, haemorrhoid bleeding, uterine bleeding, leucorrhoea, dysentery and diarrhoea. As a parasiticide it is very effective against Trichomonas.
    • The seed is hypotensive and ophthalmic. It also has an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Pseudomonas.It is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, bloodshot eyes, blurring of vision, cataracts and hypertension but should not be used by people with glaucoma because it dilates the pupils. The seeds are widely used in India for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.