A plant record

Tomato (tomat)

Lycopersicon esculentum

EnglishTomato

Kreyòltomat

FrançaisTomate

BotanicalLycopersicon esculentum

Tomato (tomat) — Lycopersicon esculentum, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Skin conditions, wounds, burns, inflammation, digestive issues, fever, headaches, infections

Prepared as

The leaves are prepared as a warm tea by steeping 1-2 fresh leaves in hot water (not boiling) for 10-15 minutes, taken 2-3 times daily for digestive issues and headaches. Fresh tomato juice mixed with lime and a pinch of salt is consumed daily as a blood cleanser and for hypertension. Crushed green tomatoes are applied as a cool poultice directly to wounds, skin infections, and insect bites for their healing properties.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Maladi po a, blesi, boule, anflamasyon, pwoblèm vant, lafyèv, tèt fè mal, enfeksyon

Français — Affections cutanées, plaies, brûlures, inflammations, troubles digestifs, fièvre, maux de tête, infections

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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