A plant record

Wormseed (semen kontra)

Chenopodium ambrosioides

EnglishWormseed

Kreyòlsemen kontra

FrançaisFeuilles à vers

BotanicalChenopodium ambrosioides

Wormseed (semen kontra) — Chenopodium ambrosioides, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Intestinal worms, parasites, digestive issues, gas, stomach pain, menstrual disorders

Prepared as

Fresh or dried wormseed leaves are traditionally prepared as a tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of the herb in hot water (just below boiling, around 180-190°F) for 10-15 minutes, then strained. For parasitic worms, adults typically take 1/2 to 1 cup of this tea twice daily for 3-7 days, while children receive much smaller doses. The fresh leaves can also be crushed and mixed with honey or sugar to mask the bitter taste, particularly for children's doses.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Vè nan vant, parazit, pwoblèm vant, gaz, doulè vant, pwoblèm règ fanm yo

Français — Vers intestinaux, parasites, troubles digestifs, gaz, douleurs d'estomac, troubles 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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