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Uses of Water Hyacinth
- Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes, enceng gondok) is a free-floating aquatic plant that is native to South America. In many tropical lakes and rivers, including in Asia, it has become an invasive weed that spreads quickly and covers the water surface.
- The plant takes up nutrients and also pollutants from the water. This is why it is studied for water cleaning (phytoremediation). It also means that plants from polluted water are not suitable as food or for medicinal use.
- In many countries the harvested plants are used as compost and organic fertilizer, as a raw material for biogas, for woven handicrafts such as baskets and mats, and sometimes as feed for livestock.
- Medical claims for water hyacinth that can be found on the internet are often confused with the hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus), which is a different plant. We make no health claims for water hyacinth.
Please note: The information on this page is provided for general interest and education only. Statements about nutrition, traditional use and research do not mean that a plant or product treats, cures or prevents any disease, and they are not medical advice. Our plant products are foods and herbal teas, not medicines. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, take medication or have a health condition, please ask a doctor before using any plant for health purposes.