A plant record

Bushy matgrass (melis)

Lippia alba

EnglishBushy matgrass

Kreyòlmelis

FrançaisMélisse

BotanicalLippia alba

Bushy matgrass (melis) — Lippia alba, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Fever, headache, respiratory, cough, pain, inflammation, calming

Prepared as

Tea: steep handful of fresh herb in hot water 10 minutes, drink 1 cup twice daily for fever, respiratory infections, and urinary complaints. Fresh herb poultice applied to wounds and inflamed skin. Root decoction: boil small piece 15 minutes, drink for digestive support. Leaf juice applied to skin infections. Use consistently for 2 weeks for fever and immune benefit.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Lafyèv, tèt ki fè mal, pwoblèm respirasyon, tous, doulè, enflamasyon, kalme kò a

Français — Fièvre, maux de tête, troubles respiratoires, toux, douleurs, inflammation, apaisant

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.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

More on Haitian plant medicine