Cotton (Gossypium spp.) consists of shrubby plants with lobed leaves, large yellow or white flowers, and bolls that release white fibers around black seeds, containing the toxic compound gossypol.
Traditionally, cotton parts are used for reproductive, gastrointestinal, skin, and pain-related treatments, though their use requires caution due to gossypol’s serious toxicity and contraceptive effects.
Refined cottonseed oil is widely used for cooking, while properly processed seeds may be eaten, but unrefined seeds and products are toxic.
Cotton flowers and plant parts are used in traditional dye-making and spiritual healing practices in some cultures.
Cotton is grown from seed in warm climates on well-drained fertile soils and harvested by collecting mature bolls for fiber and seed processing.
