Shantapra (Sean-Top-Rah)

Hidden Jewel of the Heartland

Shantapra (Imperial Wythian: lit. "Tranquil Leaf"), also occasionally known as Utungaret, is an herbaceous evergreen shrub native to Meluvrata. With its year-round blossoms and requiring little in the way of maintenance, the herb is highly sought-after for both its extensive medicinal properties and as a sweet-smelling herb in the gardens of Lagonan Thakkura.

Description

Shantapra can be found throughout the foothills and shrublands of Meluvrata, where it grows in dense thickets reaching up to four feet high. Its dark green leaves are oblong and narrow, with a smooth, waxy texture not dissimilar to that of an apple. The roots of the Shantapra are woody and dense, forming vast networks beneath the plant that can stretch for dozens of yards. The root systems of multiple thickets have been found to intertwine far beneath the earth, calling into question whether large patches of Shantapra are individual plants or a single continuous specimen.

The plant bears small violet flowers year-round, making it a popular destination for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers are primarily responsible for the herb's pleasant fragrance, but also serve as a deterrent to would-be predators: they are incredibly bitter when consumed raw.

Properties & Effects

According to ancient Lagonic texts, Shantapra has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of ailments, including fever, infections, digestive disorders, and respiratory problems. It is said to have a cooling effect on the body, making it a valuable tool when attempting to reduce swelling and inflammation.

In traditional Lagonic medicine, Shantapra is prized for both its substantial healing properties and the calming effect it provides when ingested. The leaves are typically dried and ground into a powder, which can be mixed with water or honey to form a poultice or consumed as a tea. The leaves may also be dried, fermented, and rolled into a tight bundle, which is then burned so as to inhale the smoke. It is said that chewing Shantapra root boosts the body's natural defenses, increasing resilience to sickness and disease.

Etymology

Shantapra is a compound noun of Lagonan origin, consisting of the adjective shant ("peaceful, tranquil") paired with the noun apra ("leaf"). The lesser-known name for the herb, Utungaret, comes from the trade language of the Wstaar'si people, and loosely translates to "fragrant leaf".