Birmingham Botanical Gardens BASE

  

  the interesting bits

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  Economic Plants

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     Sisal

Leaves yield a fibre used for string and rope. Now mostly replaced by nylon.

     Aloe vera

Long history of folk remedies, for burns and cuts of the skin. Bitter Aloes, are a deterrent to children biting their fingernails. Commercially used in cosmetics such as face creams and hair products.

     Agave

The sap is a soothing and restorative remedy for many digestive ailments. Tequila is a Mexican drink made by distilling the fermented sap.

     Opuntia cochenillifera

This plant is used to breed an insect called cochineal, which is harvested for its red colour, once used to colour lipstick.

     Prickly Pear

Grown for its fruits which help quench a thirst.

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