Water Pepper

Aka: marshpepper knotweed or smartweed

the young leaves, tips, and flower buds have a hot, peppery taste similar to chili, wasabi, or Sichuan pepper.

the leaves are finely chopped or made into a dipping sauce called "tade su" traditionally served with grilled fish like ayu.

often grown as a marginal aquatic or semi-aquatic stem plant in aquascaping and wet garden soils

used to ease diarrhea, dyspepsia (indigestion), and stomach aches.

acts as a styptic and astringent to help stop excessive menstrual bleeding, internal bleeding, and treat hemorrhoids. The plant contains rutin, which supports capillary strength.

applied as a poultice or wash to soothe itchy skin, rashes, wounds, and toothaches.