06/01/2026
Since the flu is going around I wanted to talk about a powerful native plant that can be helpful during times of widespread illness, Baccharis hamifolia, commonly known as manglier or groundsel bush. This hardy plant is native to Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, thriving in marshy, coastal, and brackish areas. Traditionally used by locals in south Louisiana and Indigenous communities, manglier has long been relied on for respiratory infections, fevers, and viral illnesses, often prepared as a strong tea or decoction despite its notoriously bitter and unpleasant taste. While it definitely isn’t enjoyable to drink, that bitterness reflects its potency. Groundsel bush has been valued for its powerful antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties, making it a traditional ally during flu season and for immune support during illnesses like COVID. This southern native is definitely one that we should conserve and utilize.
