Availability & Health Benefits:
Cayaponia espelina, commonly known as São Caetano melon, is a traditional Brazilian plant associated with various medicinal uses. It is traditionally used as a diuretic, for treating diarrhea and syphilis, and in managing blood sugar through tea made from its dried flowers. The powdered seeds are sometimes applied to the eye, and the roots are believed to act as an antidote to certain plant-based poisons.

Diuretic:
Believed to increase urine production, which may support conditions like fluid retention (edema) and urinary disorders.

Treatment for Diarrhea and Syphilis:
Used in folk medicine to relieve symptoms of diarrhea and as a traditional remedy for syphilis.

Laxative:
The plant’s leaves are considered to have laxative properties that may help with constipation.

Diabetes:
Dried flowers and buds are used as a tea substitute to assist in regulating blood sugar levels.

Eye Treatment:
Powdered seeds have been traditionally used topically for chronic purulent conjunctivitis.

Antidote Effect:
Roots are said to counteract certain plant-based toxins.

Other Traditional Uses:
Includes potential benefits for epilepsy, nervous conditions, and respiratory complaints such as bronchitis, catarrh, and whooping cough. Name: Sesuvium portulacastrum