Knobweed
StarHyptis capitata
Synonyms: Hyptis mariannarum, Hyptis macrochila, Mesosphaerum pittieri, Hyptis decurrens, Hyptis pittieri, Hyptis celebica, Hyptis capitata var. mexicana, Hyptis capitata var. vulgaris, Mesosphaerum capitatum, Hyptis capitata var. pilosa, Pycnanthemum decurrens, Mesosphaerum rhombodeum, Hyptis capitata var. mariannarum, Clinopodium capitatum, Hyptis rhomboidea
Western Herbalism Properties
Traditional Uses
Knobweed is widely used in folk medicine across the tropics. In the Philippines the Maranao and Agusan Manobo apply crushed leaves to wounds and cuts and use leaf decoctions for cough, gastrointestinal complaints, fever and cystitis (StuartXchange/Quisumbing). In tropical America it is used as a tonic and stimulant in Martinique and the Antilles, as a remedy for toothache and gastrointestinal upset in Costa Rica, and as a cough and cold medicine in French Guiana and Jamaica. In Indonesia the Anak Dalam tribe of Jambi use the leaves to treat external and internal wounds, and in Malaysia pounded young leaves are applied for stomach ache (Plant Science Today; StuartXchange). Reported as having no documented edible or culinary use.
Gallery
Botanical Description
Hyptis capitata, commonly called knobweed or buttonweed, is an erect annual or short-lived perennial herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), native to tropical America but now a pantropical weed of disturbed ground, roadsides, fallow fields and waste places throughout the warmer regions of the world. It grows to about one to two metres tall on a four-angled (square) stem typical of the family, bearing opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves with toothed margins and a faintly aromatic scent when crushed. The most distinctive feature is the inflorescence: numerous small white flowers are densely crowded into spherical, button- or knob-like heads (capitula) borne on long slender stalks from the upper leaf axils, giving rise to both common names. After flowering, the heads produce small nutlets. The plant is fast-growing and readily colonises open, moist tropical habitats, and is generally regarded as a weed of plantations and agricultural land.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
📝 Notes
Public notes from the community and your own private notes on Knobweed.
No notes yet.