Water Dropwort, Fineleaf waterdropwort

Oenanthe aquatica

Physical Characteristics

Oenanthe aquatica is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, though absent from the far north, to W. Asia.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antiperiodic Diaphoretic Diuretic Expectorant Homeopathy Narcotic Pectoral The fruit is antiperiodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant and pectoral. It is used in the treatment of chronic pectoral affections, dyspepsia, intermittent fevers, obstinate ulcers etc[4, 9, 21]. This plant should be used with great caution, and only under the supervision of an experienced practitioner. In overdose the fruits cause vertigo, intoxication and other narcotic effects. The roots have been used externally in the treatment of piles[4]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fruits. It is used in the treatment of bronchitis, coughs etc[9].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are poisonous[4, 9, 65, 76]. It is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].