Stone Flower (Dagad Phool)दगड़ फूल / पत्थर फूल
Properties
Stone Flower (Parmelia perlata), known as Dagad Phool in Marathi or Kalpasi in Tamil, is not a flower but a perennial lichen that grows on rocks and trees. It has absolutely no smell when raw or dried. However, when roasted in hot oil, it releases an incredibly complex, earthy, woody, and intensely savory mushroom-like aroma. It is the secret defining ingredient in authentic Maharashtrian Goda Masala and Chettinad curries.
Reported Health Benefits
Note: The following benefits are reported when taken in moderation.
Renal Calculi (Kidney Stones) Support
Highly regarded in Ayurveda as a diuretic that assists in breaking down and flushing out kidney stones and managing UTIs.
Source: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govWound Healing & Antimicrobial
Rich in usnic acid, the lichen exhibits strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically or consumed.
Source: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govReported Health Issues if Excess
Use caution and consult a healthcare professional.
Hepatotoxicity Risk (Usnic Acid)
While culinary amounts are safe, highly concentrated isolated extracts of usnic acid have been definitively linked to severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity).
Source: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govRegions Produced & Seasons
India
Harvested from tree bark and rocks in high-altitude, humid regions like the Himalayas and Western Ghats, primarily post-monsoon.
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