Echinodorus macrophyllus (Kunth) Micheli

Echinodorus macrophyllus (Kunth) Micheli pertaining to Alismataceae family, is a perennial, rhizomatous and aquatic herb that also occurs in wetlands and flooding areas, in several countries of South America. In Brazil, it is known as chapeu-de-couro, cha-mineiro, erva-de-pântano, erva-de-bugre, congonha-do-brejo e erva-do-brejo. Other species of the genus, such as E. grandiflorus is also used in folk medicine, with very similar indications for use. E. macrophyllus leaves have been used in folk medicine in the form of decoction, infusion, or bottled, considered a reputed remedy for the treatment of infections, respiratory diseases, inflammatory conditions, kidney dysfunctions, diuretic, anti-hypertensive and against pains of the genito-urinary system. Although many studies have shown positive results in preclinical trials and this herb seems to be safe to human organism, it is important to be careful with its indiscriminate use to avoid side effects and health damage, as well as with collection practices. In Brazil, this species is still wild-crafted and extensively extracted. These are conditions that make it a high-priority species for conservation.