Menyanthes trifoliata
Menyanthes trifoliata
Menyanthes trifoliata
Plant Family
Menyanthaceae
Botanical Description
Bogbean is a perennial aquatic plant with trifoliate leaves on long stalks and spikes of white to pink flowers with fringed petals. Grows from creeping rhizomes in shallow water.
Cautions
Not during pregnancy or breastfeeding. May cause GI irritation. Not for inflammatory bowel conditions.
Habitat
Bogs, marshes, pond margins, wet meadows.
Geographic Distribution
Circumpolar in northern hemisphere including Iceland.
Growth Conditions
Shallow water or very wet conditions. Full sun to partial shade.
Plant Size
15-30 cm above water
Effects on the Body
Very bitter digestive stimulant. Traditional use for rheumatic complaints and to reduce fever. Stimulates appetite.
Active Constituents
Bitter iridoids (menyanthin, loganin), flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, alkaloids.
Safety Information
Pregnancy Safety: avoid
Breastfeeding Safety: avoid
Dosage
Tea: 0.5-1 g dried leaves, steep 10 minutes. Very bitter - take before meals.
Culinary Use
Historically used in brewing as a bitter agent before hops.
Folklore & Historical Use
Traditional remedy for rheumatism and scurvy in northern Europe.
Scientific Research
European Medicines Agency approves for loss of appetite and dyspeptic complaints. Contains bitter glycosides similar to gentian. German Commission E approves for loss of appetite.
Sveindis Benediktsdottir
