Usage: The leaves and flowers of porterweed are utilized for food and medicine. The small blue to purple flowers is edible, make a beautiful addition to your salads and they taste like mushrooms! The name “porterweed” comes from the dark, foamy infusion of the leaves that can then be made into a beer (porter). Medicinally, porterweed is most often prepared as an infusion or decoction. The leaves and flowers of porterweed are cooling, with an affinity for the digestive, respiratory and integumentary systems. Irritated gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion, acid reflux, ulcers, constipation can be supported with an infusion of porterweed. This plant has been known to soothe an inflamed, hot respiratory system that is suffering from coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis and allergies. Topically, porterweed has shown antibacterial and antifungal properties, supporting the body’s infection-fighting abilities. Porterweed attracts many bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

*CONTRAINDICATED during pregnancy and cases of low-blood pressure

Porterweed - Florida School of Holistic Living (holisticlivingschool.org)