Alternanthera brasiliana

Common Name(s):

Joyweed Brazilian, Alternanthera

Non-native

The genus name 'Alternathera' is a combination of the Latin word 'alternans' (meaning "alternating" and the Greek word 'anthera' (meaning anthers).

The specific epithet 'brasiliana' refers to the Brazilian origin of this plant's species.

The plant is said to contain components that could be used as an aphrodisiac - useful as an antiviral agent - and the leaf juice when dunk in vinegar can be used as an antidiarrheal infusion.