A plant record

Watermelon (melon dlo)

Citrullus lanatus

EnglishWatermelon

Kreyòlmelon dlo

FrançaisMelon d'eau

BotanicalCitrullus lanatus

Watermelon (melon dlo) — Citrullus lanatus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Kidney stones, urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, edema, fever

Prepared as

The seeds are dried and ground into powder, then steeped in hot water (not boiling) at 160-180°F for 10-15 minutes to make a tea for kidney cleansing, taking 1 cup twice daily. Fresh watermelon rind is boiled with other herbs like soursop leaves in warm water for 20 minutes to create a cooling drink for hypertension, consumed 3-4 times weekly. The red flesh is also juiced fresh and mixed with lime and a pinch of sea salt, drinking 8 ounces daily for natural hydration and blood purification.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Kalkil nan ren yo, enfeksyon nan kanal pipi a, tansyon wo, anfleman nan kò a, lafyèv

Français — Calculs rénaux, infections des voies urinaires, hypertension artérielle, œdème, fièvre

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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