Alcia

Alcia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Plants in the genus Alcia are typically herbaceous perennials or subshrubs. They are native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia. The leaves of Alcia species are usually simple and alternate, and the flowers are typically borne in capitula, which are characteristic of the Asteraceae family. The color of the petals can vary among species, often appearing in shades of yellow, white, or pink.

The genus Alcia contains several species, though taxonomic classifications can sometimes vary. Some well-known species include Alcia millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, which has been used in traditional medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Another species is Alcia ptarmica, also known as sneezewort, which has a history of use as a medicinal herb and in folk remedies. The plants are generally adapted to arid or semi-arid conditions and can be found growing in grasslands, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas. Their ecological role often involves providing food and habitat for various insects. Research into the chemical compounds found in Alcia species continues, with a focus on their potential pharmacological applications.