A plant record

Yellow elder (chevalye)

Tecoma stans

EnglishYellow elder

Kreyòlchevalye

FrançaisChevalier

BotanicalTecoma stans

Yellow elder (chevalye) — Tecoma stans, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Immunity, antioxidant, cold, flu, fever, infection, antibacterial

Prepared as

Flower tea: steep 1 tbsp fresh or dried flowers in hot water 10 minutes, drink 1 cup twice daily for respiratory complaints. Syrup: simmer flowers with honey and water 20 minutes, strain, take 1 tablespoon for cough. Berry decoction: boil ripe berries 10 minutes, drink for immunity.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Pou renforsi kò a, kont radika lib yo, grip, refwidisman, lafyèv, enfeksyon, ak pou touye mikwòb yo

Français — Pour renforcer l'immunité, antioxydant, rhume, grippe, fièvre, infections, et propriétés antibactériennes

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

More on Haitian plant medicine