Glabrous bulbous herb, 20- 40cm. high, possessing a strong pungent aromatic odour. Leaves cylindrical, hollow, linear, oblong- acuminate at the apex. Inflorescence on the top of a long stalk in umbel forming a large globular head; flowers small, white. Capsule with numerous seeds, minute, trigonal, black

     Extensively cultivate as a spice herb throughout the country

The bulbs contain essential oil. The constituents of the crude oil are allyl propyl disulfide, diallyl disulfide and sulfur compounds.

He whole plants, especially the bulbs, possess neurostimulant, stomachic and antibacterial properties. They are effective in the treatment of coryza, influenza, headache, fever, dyspepsia, intestinal infections, rheumatism, toothache, furunculosis and dysuria. The daily dose is 30 to 60g of fresh herb, in the form of a decoction, extracted juice or hot gruel. A poultice of pounded fresh bulbs is effective in treating furunculosis, especially axillary and inguinal boils. Inhalation of the vapour from a boiling decoction is active on coryza, influenza and fever.