Quince (Kwen)
Cydonia oblonga
Quince
Kwen
Cognassier
Cydonia oblonga
Traditionally used
Quince has been traditionally used to soothe coughs and sore throats due to its high mucilage content. The astringent properties of the fruit and seeds make it valuable for treating diarrhea and as a gentle digestive tonic.
Prepared as
The seeds are prepared as a decoction by simmering 1 teaspoon in 200ml water for 10-15 minutes, strained warm. Fresh quince fruit can be made into a syrup or the mucilaginous seed gel can be extracted with cold water.
In three languages
Kreyòl — Kwen yo itilize depi lontan pou kalme tous ak mal gòj akòz jan li gen anpil mucilage nan li. Pwopriyete astringen fwi ak grenn yo fè li enpòtan pou trete dyare ak kòm yon tonik dijèstif dou.
Français — Le cognassier est traditionnellement utilisé pour apaiser la toux et les maux de gorge grâce à sa forte teneur en mucilage. Les propriétés astringentes du fruit et des graines le rendent précieux pour traiter la diarrhée et comme tonique digestif doux.
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