A plant record

Indian heliotrope (krèt kòk)

Heliotropium indicum

EnglishIndian heliotrope

Kreyòlkrèt kòk

FrançaisCrête de coq

BotanicalHeliotropium indicum

Indian heliotrope (krèt kòk) — Heliotropium indicum, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

⚠ Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that injure the liver — linked to veno-occlusive disease and liver cancer — and they absorb through skin as well as the gut, so even a poultice carries risk. Documented for recognition only — no use published.

Prepared as

Not prepared. Do not drink, poultice, or apply. Seek medical advice for any exposure.

In three languages

Kreyòl — ⚠ Li gen alkaloyid pirolizidin ki andomaje fwa a — yo lye ak maladi venn-okliziv ak kansè nan fwa — epi yo antre nan kò a atravè po menm jan ak nan vant, kidonk menm yon kataplas gen risk. Dokimante pou rekonèt li sèlman — pa gen itilizasyon ki pibliye.

Français — ⚠ Contient des alcaloïdes pyrrolizidiniques qui endommagent le foie — liés à la maladie veino-occlusive et au cancer du foie — et absorbés par la peau autant que par l'intestin, de sorte que même un cataplasme présente un risque. Documenté pour la reconnaissance uniquement — aucun usage publié.

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