Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski

Wedelia (Sphagneticola trilobata) is a creeping herb up to 45 cm tall of the Asteraceae family, native to Central America and the Caribbean islands, now spread throughout nearly all tropical regions. Besides being known for its diuretic properties, this plant is sometimes used in small amounts as a seasoning for fish and turtle meat. Traditionally, wedelia is also believed to relieve hepatitis, malaria, and muscle cramps.

Generally found in wet soil, sometimes in swamps and along coastlines, up to an elevation of 700 m above sea level. Grows well in regions with temperatures around 10-30°C, rainfall of 1,000-2,500 mm/year. Tolerant of high salt concentrations, moist and fertile soil at pH 5.5-7.5, loamy soil, well-drained, waterlogging, and drought. Requires full sun or moderate-intensity shade.

• Stem green, round, roots can grow at the plant's nodes.
• Leaves green, obovate, 4-9 cm long and 2-5 cm wide, toothed margins, opposite arrangement.
• Flowers solitary, bright yellow, emerging in the leaf axils, stalk 3-10 cm long.

Propagation can be done by offshoot separation and shoot cuttings.

Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, steroids, glycosides, tannins, phenols, amino acids, germacrene D, alpha-phellandrene, alpha-pinene, E-caryophyllene, bicyclogermacrene, limonene, alpha-humulene.

Promotes urination; treats hepatitis and malaria; reduces flu symptoms accompanied by a runny nose; eliminates muscle cramps, rheumatism, bruises, back pain, and headache.

Not Yet Available 

Saruni laut, Widelia (Java, Sunda), Cinga-cinga (Ternate), Widelia (Java).