A plant record

Velvetleaf (Pat chwal)

Cissampelos pareira

EnglishVelvetleaf

KreyòlPat chwal

FrançaisLiane molle

BotanicalCissampelos pareira

Velvetleaf (Pat chwal) — Cissampelos pareira, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Menstrual complaints, diuretic, digestive, colic, snakebite (traditional) — contains active alkaloids, use with caution

Prepared as

A decoction of the root or leaves is taken in small amounts for menstrual pain, sluggish digestion, and as a diuretic. Because the root contains potent alkaloids, only small, infrequent doses are used traditionally; it is flagged for review before being offered as a self-care preparation.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Pwoblèm règ, pou fè pipi, dijesyon, kolik, kout sèpan (tradisyonèl) — gen alkaloyid aktif, sèvi avè l ak anpil prekosyon

Français — Troubles menstruels, diurétique, digestif, coliques, morsures de serpent (traditionnel) — contient des alcaloïdes actifs, à utiliser avec prudence

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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