Water chestnut (Trapa natans)

The main feature of the water chestnut is that it breeds in the water. In the mud, sticky mud that is at the bottom of the water is creeping, while the surface is able to swim and float. It is here shown a diamond-shaped leaves, which in turn form a rosette. These leaves have teeth but unevenly distributed. The nipples that sustain them are inflated and make floats. In part that is under the water appear on stem leaves that seem roots and are at odds. The water chestnut grows in stagnant water areas. It is a plant much more prevalent in Europe than in our country. Located in the Baix Emporda and gaps in the waters east of Mallorca.

FLOWERING

The water chestnut blooms in the months of June and July. Flowers appear in the axils of the leaves that are floating in the water, the corolla has four white petals and cup also has four sepals. These, over time, are becoming larger and become spines surrounding the fruit. The fruit is black and has a very strong shell and its size and flavor reminiscent of a chestnut. It mainly collects the seed, but can use other parts of the plant.

APPLICATIONS

The seeds of water chestnut are composed of at least 20% crude protein and over 50% of starch. In countries where this plant is very abundant is used as food. Its main virtues are that combat diarrhea and provides energy and strength to the person who is weak from illness or otherwise. This plant was once used as a good remedy against inflammation. Also mixed with honey and healed all the wounds that appeared in the mouth. Other virtues were attributed as being useful against Pidras and serve as an eye medicine.

ADMINISTRATION

Powder. You take the seeds and grind them until they are pulverized farinaceous. It is used against diarrhea and as an energizer.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Malvaceae
HABITAT: Standing water
FLOWERING: June and July
PART USED: Seeds
CASTILIAN: Tribulo acuático
CATALAN: Pota de bou

USES

Antidiarrheal Moderate, Mild Astringent, Remineralizing Leve.