Cinderweed

Cinderweed is a deep-rooted plant native to the Barren Wastes of Northern Elvara. Well suited to life in the ashy wasteland, the plant grows with little water or food, storing what nutrients it does have within it’s thick stem. When the Cinderweed senses danger, its leaves disintegrate, leaving nought but it’s bitter tasting stem behind.

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"Cinderweed is a curious plant, to say the least. In the presence of danger, it simply destroys itself rather than face any real threat. We believe there may be a simple reason for this. The crumbled ashy remains of the plant’s leaves and flowers contain both fertilised seeds and enough nutrients to feed a new stock of Cinderweed plants. Thus, in destroying itself, the plant is merely creating the conditions for a new generation of plants to grow in its place, ensuring the survival of the species."

— Linus Bamba - Botany Professor at the Malvarri Herbalist College.

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Appearance

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The plants comprise thick stems capable of storing vast amounts of food and nutrients. They have small round flower heads, and are deep-rooted in order to reach enough depth within the barren, ashy soil to provide the plant with the minerals needed to grow.

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Uses

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Only the desperate choose to eat the leaves of this foul, bitter tasting plant, as besides the ‘acquired taste’ it contains very little nutritional value.
However, the plant has other uses. For example, a paste made from the ashes can treat various skin conditions such as rashes, blotchiness, and dry skin.
Cinderweed root is thought to have a tooth whitening effect. When mixed with sage, camomile, liquorice root and peppermint, it can make a decent mouth and gum wash. Simply grind the ingredients into a thick paste and rub a pea-sized amount onto your teeth, gums and tongue. Leave for several minutes before rinsing and the job is done. Repeat daily for full benefits.

Geographic Distribution

• The Barren Wastes

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