ILLEA - Latin American Institute for Environmental Studies

St. Lucias herb

Commelina erecta, popularly known as blue spiderwort, is a herbaceous plant with diverse uses in traditional medicine and cooking.

Its uses and benefits include: Traditional medicine: The plant is used to treat respiratory problems, such as coughs and bronchitis.

It is also used to treat skin problems, such as wounds and inflammations.

It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Studies report that the plant has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action.

Culinary: The young leaves of the blue spiderwort can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach.

The flowers are also edible and can be used in salads and as a garnish for dishes.