A plant record

Sugarcane (kann)

Saccharum officinarum

EnglishSugarcane

Kreyòlkann

FrançaisCanne à sucre

BotanicalSaccharum officinarum

Sugarcane (kann) — Saccharum officinarum, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Fever, cough, sore throat, kidney stones, urinary infections, jaundice

Prepared as

Fresh sugarcane stalks are peeled and chewed directly, or the juice is extracted by crushing and consumed immediately at room temperature for energy and to treat dehydration. For medicinal tea, dried sugarcane leaves are steeped in hot water (85-90°C) for 10-15 minutes, drinking 1-2 cups daily to support kidney function and reduce inflammation. The bagasse (pulp) can be boiled for 20-30 minutes to make a concentrated decoction, taken in small doses of 2-3 tablespoons twice daily for digestive ailments.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Lafyèv, tous, gòj ki fè mal, kalkil nan ren yo, enfeksyon pipi, jonis

Français — Fièvre, toux, maux de gorge, calculs rénaux, infections urinaires, jaunisse

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

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