Swarnakshiri (Mexican Prickly Poppy)

The Mexican prickly poppy, also known as Argemone mexicana, is a plant species that belongs to the family Papaveraceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America, but can also be found in other regions of the world such as Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Mexican prickly poppy is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has spiny, lobed leaves that are gray-green in color and can be up to 25 cm long. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are about 6 cm in diameter and are yellow to orange in color. The flowers have a distinctive prickly seed capsule that gives the plant its common name.

The Mexican prickly poppy has been used for medicinal purposes for many years. The plant contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and other compounds that have been found to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments such as pain, fever, skin infections, and respiratory problems.

The plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow in a range of environments, including deserts, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand hot and dry conditions. Mexican prickly poppy can be propagated by seeds and can be grown in a variety of gardening settings, including rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. However, it is important to note that the plant is considered invasive in some areas and should be grown with caution.