Keanekaragaman Hayati Sekitar Kita: Bribli (Galinsoga parviflora)

Abstract

Galinsonga parviflora (Cav.) is one of underutilized vegetables possessing medicinal and dietary benefits. It is commonly known as Gallant soldier in Britain, Quickweed,Waterweed, and Piphe in Central America. Bribli (Galinsoga parviflora), a shrub belonging to the Aster family (Asteraceae), grows 20-70 cm tall. Its branches grow opposite each other, and the leaves are 3-5.5 cm long and 1.5-3.5 cm wide, green, with serrated edges and pointed tips, and may be hairy or not. The small flowers typically have 5 petals (3-8) that are white, with the petal tips being 3-lobed. The center is yellow. It is distinguished from its close relative (Galinsoga quadriradiata) by the absence of glandular hairs. Native to Central America and Mexico, it has spread worldwide and naturalized in various tropical regions, including Indonesia. In Colombia, the leaves are used as a soup seasoning and salad mix. In East Africa, the stems, leaves, and flowers are eaten fresh or dried as a soup seasoning. The entire plant is ground and applied to the body to address various skin inflammations and wounds (aiding in blood clotting). A decoction of the plant is used as a diuretic, and for treating diabetes and high blood pressure. The plant has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and astringent properties.