A plant record

Velvet leaf (fèy kè)

Cissampelos pariera

EnglishVelvet leaf

Kreyòlfèy kè

FrançaisFeuille à coeur

BotanicalCissampelos pariera

Velvet leaf (fèy kè) — Cissampelos pariera, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Kidney stones, urinary infections, fever, snakebites, digestive issues, menstrual problems

Prepared as

The leaves are typically prepared as a decoction by boiling 1-2 tablespoons of fresh or dried leaves in 2 cups of water for 15-20 minutes over medium heat. The tea is strained while warm and consumed 1/4 to 1/2 cup three times daily for digestive issues, kidney problems, or as a blood purifier. For external use, the leaves may be crushed fresh and applied directly to wounds or skin conditions, or the cooled decoction used as a wash.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Kalkil nan ren, enfeksyon pipi, lafyèv, mòdi koulèv, pwoblèm vant ak dijestyon, pwoblèm règ fanm yo

Français — Calculs rénaux, infections urinaires, fièvre, morsures de serpent, troubles digestifs, problèmes menstruels

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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