Watercress
Nasturtium officinale · Brassicaceae
Watercress
Cresson
Nasturtium officinale
Brassicaceae
Traditionally used
Watercress — a sharp, mineral-rich green carrying a mustard-oil glycoside; a spring depurative, mild expectorant, and digestive tonic taken fresh or as juice. ⚠ In excess it inflames the stomach and gut; and gather only from clean water — wild watercress from grazed land can carry liver-fluke.
In three languages
Français — Cresson — verdure piquante et minérale portant un hétéroside sulfuré; dépuratif de printemps, expectorant léger et tonique digestif, pris frais ou en jus. ⚠ En excès, il irrite l'estomac et l'intestin; et ne récolter qu'en eau propre — le cresson sauvage de pâturage peut porter la douve du foie.
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.
Sources & lineage
European phytotherapy; food-safety (Fasciola / liver-fluke) note
Kept alongside