Sneezeweed
Centipeda minima
Family: Asteraceae
What it is like
A herb. It often lies along the ground. It grows each year from seed. The stems can be erect or spreading from a single taproot. The leaves are alternate and broadly oval with teeth towards the end. The flower heads occur singly in the axils of leaves. They are white. The fruit is a dry.
It has medicinal properties against allergies and against bacteria.
Where it is found
It is a tropical and subtropical plant. It grows in wet places. It can be in shallow water and flowers as the water recedes. In Sichuan and Yunnan.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Fiji, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Northeastern India, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Russia, Samoa, SE Asia, Taiwan, Thailand
How it is used for food
The leaves are mixed with other vegetables and cooked and eaten. The leaves can be stored for 3-4 days.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Chay-sat, Hachuti, Hansia bon, Hansio bighang, Sat-cahy