A plant record

Four o'clock (bèl de nwi)

Mirabilis jalapa

EnglishFour o'clock

Kreyòlbèl de nwi

FrançaisBelle de nuit

BotanicalMirabilis jalapa

Four o'clock (bèl de nwi) — Mirabilis jalapa, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Inflammation, skin conditions, wounds, fever, digestive complaints, diuretic

Prepared as

Root decoction: boil small piece of root in 2 cups water 15 minutes, drink half cup twice daily for fever, inflammation, and urinary complaints. Leaf tea: boil handful 10 minutes for digestive support. Root powder mixed with coconut oil applied to painful joints and swellings. Flower infusion: steep 5 flowers in hot water 10 minutes, drink for sleep and anxiety.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Enflamasyon, maladi po, blese, lafyèv, pwoblèm vant, fè pipi pi fasil

Français — Inflammations, affections cutanées, plaies, fièvre, troubles digestifs, diurétique

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