Kipshi

Kipshi (from Hapšâw'l kipši) is a type of flowering shrub common in the Dzeyya of Hapšâw. It's stem and leaves are covered in small hairs, which it uses to defend itself by injecting a numbing substance referred to as kipšil têmâl by the residents of the island.

Description

The kipshi bush grows to be around 80cm tall. It's leaves are large (about 6-8cm long and 4-5cm wide) and have the shape of a concave diamond. the stem is thick and wooden with many branches. Both the stem and leaves are covered in thin hairs, which it uses to inject a substance containing a mild neurotoxin into potential threats. the substance causes a tingling sensation, followed by numbness which lasts from 2 to 4 hours.

Uses

The leaves of the kipshi plant are collected by the Dzeyyal, as well as the Hapšâw'l who live in the Dzeyya. They are typically made into a cream which is used to dull the pain of insect bites and stings and other minor injuries. This cream is one of the main exports of the town of Hišl.