Guizotia scabra, commonly known as niger or ramtil, is an annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to Ethiopia, it is widely cultivated in India and other parts of Asia for its oil-rich seeds. The plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters, with a branched stem and small yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and serrated with a rough texture.
The seeds of Guizotia scabra are small, measuring 2-3 mm, and are black or dark brown in color. They contain about 40% oil, which is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9). The oil has various industrial applications, including soap making, lubricant production, and biofuel production.
In traditional medicine practices across Africa and Asia, the leaves and seeds of Guizotia scabra have been used to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and diarrhea.
Overall, Guizotia scabra is an important crop due to its high yield potential and nutritional value.
Botanical profile.
- Genus
- Guizotia
- Family
- Asteraceae
Other names.
