Bromeliad (Crypanthus spp)
Folk Names: Chameleon Star, Earth Star, Pineapple
Description: Bromeliads are members of a plant family Bromeliaceae, containing over 2700 species in approximately 56 genera. The most well known bromeliad is of course the pineapple (Ananas comosus or cosmos), but the family contains a wide range of plants including some very un-pineapple like members such as Spanish Moss. Other members resemble aloes or yuccas while still others look like green, leafy grasses. Some even trap and eat insects. Many bromeliads collect water in a central cup or in separate leaf axils. The small bodies of water function as ecosystems for aquatic organisms and are called phytotelmata. The animals and other organisms that live in them are not pests of bromeliads, but a few, such as mosquitoes, cause problems for people.
Effects: strong
Planet: Sun
Element: air
Associated Deities:
Traditions:
Magic:
Bromeliads are grown in the home for protection, money, and luxury.
Known Combinations:
none known
Medical Indications: (Caution: juice may cause dermatitis in some people.) Parts used: enzyme
The enzyme in fresh pineapple is used to treat painful arthritis.
Nutrition:
Tender, young pineapple shoots and terminal buds (inflorescences) are eaten in salads or cooked in Africa and Guatemala. Pineapple stems are a source of the protein-digesting enzyme bromelain, used as a meat tenderizer and for pain reduction. Because fresh pineapple also contains bromelain, it cannot be used in gelatin molds since the enzyme breaks down the congealing proteins.
Mercantile Uses:
Within the last hundred years, bromeliads have become more widely used as ornamental plants. Although the pineapple is the only member of the family cultivated for food, several species including Caroa (Neoglaziovia variegata) are cultivated as a source of fiber. Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides) contains a tough, wiry core that was once used as a material for stuffing upholstery. Bromelain stabilizes latex paint and is useful in tanning leather.