A plant record

Bogbean

Menyanthes trifoliata · Menyanthaceae

EnglishBogbean

FrançaisTrèfle d'eau

BotanicalMenyanthes trifoliata

FamilyMenyanthaceae

Bogbean — Menyanthes trifoliata, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Bogbean is a bracing bitter that wakes a tired digestion. Its bitter glycosides call up the flow of gastric and intestinal juices, so a cup of the infusion taken an hour before meals sharpens the appetite and steadies a weak or acid stomach. It answers well to chronic gastritis, dyspepsia, flatulence, and heartburn, and it settles readily into a bitter blend with mint and valerian.

In three languages

Français — Le trèfle d'eau est un amer tonique qui réveille une digestion fatiguée. Ses glucosides amers appellent l'écoulement des sucs gastriques et intestinaux ; une tasse d'infusion prise une heure avant les repas aiguise l'appétit et raffermit un estomac faible ou acide. Il convient bien aux gastrites chroniques, à la dyspepsie, aux flatulences et aux aigreurs, et s'intègre volontiers à un mélange amer avec la menthe et la valériane.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Sources & lineage

European phytotherapy / Commission E — bitter glycosides (menyanthin)

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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