Botanical Name(s): Abelmoschus Moschatus
Popular Name(s): Ambrette Seeds, Hibiscus Abelmoschus, Musk Mallow, Musk Okra, Ornamental Okra, Annual Hibiscus, Yorka Okra, Galu Gasturi, Bamia Moschata.
Parts Used: Seeds, Seeds Oil
Habitat: Tropical parts of India
Description: Abelmoschus Moschatus is a soft, herbaceous trailing plant to 2 metres in diameter with soft hairy stems. It has an underground tuber and dies back to this tuber in the dry season, emerging again with the first substantial rains of the wet season. It is a relative of the edible okra and tubers and foliage formed a source of food for aborigines.
Uses: Ambrette oil was formerly highly appreciated in perfumery, but has now been largely replaced by synthetic musks. The seeds have a strong aroma of musk. Used as a stimulant, relaxant and casting out the poison of snakes. Also used for giving flavor to the coffee of the Arabs.