Chew stick (Lyann savon)
Gouania lupuloides
Chew stick
Lyann savon
Liane savon
Gouania lupuloides
Traditionally used
Dental hygiene, gum health, bad breath, mouth sores, sore throat
Prepared as
A piece of the woody stem is chewed at one end until it frays into a soft brush, then used to clean the teeth and firm the gums; the slightly bitter, foaming sap freshens the mouth. A decoction of the stem can be used as a gargle for sore gums and throat.
In three languages
Kreyòl — Pou bwose dan, sante jansiv, move alèn, malt nan bouch, gòj fè mal
Français — Hygiène dentaire, santé des gencives, mauvaise haleine, aphtes, maux de gorge
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