Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Leaves.
Occasionally used as a vegetable. No further details are given but the flavour has been found to be less than desirable.
Medicinal Uses
Alterative; Antiscorbutic; Astringent; Depurative; Diuretic; Febrifuge; Homeopathy; Ophthalmic; Sedative; Skin.
The whole plant is alterative, antipruritic, antiscorbutic, astringent, depurative, diuretic, febrifuge and soporific. It is used in the treatment of colds, measles, oedema and difficulty in urination. It is applied externally in the treatment of skin diseases and is used as a wash for ophthalmia. It is good for cleansing the system, headaches, inflammation.
Other Uses
Repellent.
The dried plant repels mosquitoes.
Cultivation details
Requires a sunny position in still water that is rich in nitrates and lime. Makes an excellent addition to the compost heap.