Scarlet milkweed (zèb madan Bouven)

Traditionally used

⚠ Whole plant is toxic — cardiac glycosides can disturb the heart and the latex irritates skin and eyes; never ingested without expert guidance. Used mostly externally for respiratory ailments, skin infections, intestinal worms, fever, wounds, digestive complaints, and inflammation.

Prepared as

The roots and leaves are typically prepared as a warm tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried plant material in hot water (not boiling, around 180°F) for 10-15 minutes, then strained and consumed in small doses of 1/4 to 1/2 cup twice daily. Fresh leaves may also be crushed and applied externally as a poultice for skin conditions, or the milky sap used sparingly on warts. Due to the plant's potent cardiac glycosides, preparations are used very cautiously and in minimal amounts, often combined with other gentler herbs to reduce toxicity.

In three languages

Kreyòl — ⚠ Tout plant lan toksik — glikozid kadyak yo kapab deranje kè a epi lèt la irite po ak je; pa janm vale l san konsèy yon ekspè. Itilize sitou sou po a pou pwoblèm respirasyon, enfeksyon po, vè nan vant, lafyèv, blesi, pwoblèm dijesyon, ak enflamasyon.

Français — ⚠ Toute la plante est toxique — les glycosides cardiaques peuvent perturber le cœur et le latex irrite la peau et les yeux ; jamais ingérée sans l'avis d'un expert. Utilisé surtout en externe pour les affections respiratoires, les infections cutanées, les vers intestinaux, la fièvre, les plaies, les troubles digestifs et l'inflammation.

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

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