A plant record

Red vine / Grape vine leaf (Viy wouj)

Vitis vinifera

EnglishRed vine / Grape vine leaf

KreyòlViy wouj

FrançaisVigne rouge

BotanicalVitis vinifera

Red vine / Grape vine leaf (Viy wouj) — Vitis vinifera, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Chronic venous insufficiency (heavy legs, varicose veins, edema). Antioxidant (OPCs from seeds). Hemorrhoids. Menopausal hot flashes (leaves).

Prepared as

Leaves, grape seeds (OPC extract)

Chemistry

Anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins (OPCs) — capillary protective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, venotonic. Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol). Grape seed OPCs are among the most potent antioxidants studied.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Ensifizans veinèz kwonik (janm lou, vars, édèm). Antioxidan (OPC grenn). Emowoyid. Chalè menapòz. Viy wouj (rezen wouj) kòn nan Karayib ak nan diaspora ayisyen kòm sipò pou sirkilasyon vennez. Kèk medsin fèy rekòmande li pou janm lou ak venn varikèz.

Français — Insuffisance veineuse chronique (jambes lourdes, varices, œdèmes). Antioxydant (OPC des pépins). Hémorroïdes. Bouffées de chaleur ménopausiques (feuilles). La vigne rouge est connue dans les Caraïbes et la diaspora haïtienne comme soutien veineux; certains praticiens traditionnels la recommandent pour les jambes lourdes et les varices.

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