Commonly found in ponds and slow streams in eastern North America. Newfoundland to Florida; Texas to Nebraska.
Warning
Large doses may be toxic.
CAUTION: Do not mistake the white pond lily (N. odorata) for the tuberous water lily (N. tuberosa), which can cause poisoning. The poisonous plant can be distinguished by its tuberous rootstock and odorless (or nearly so) flowers.
Both root and leaves are sometimes made into poultices for wounds, cuts, and bruises. Native Americans used root tea for coughs, tuberculosis (TB), inflamed glands, mouth sores, to stop bleeding. A folk tradition, a mixture of root and lemon juice was used to remove freckles and pimples.
A poultice made for painful swellings, boils, ulcers, wounds, and cuts. Apply the powdered root, combined with flaxseed, as a poultice. A tea made from the root makes a good gargle for irritation and/or inflammation in the mouth and throat, used as an eyewash, and a vaginal douche. As a lotion, it helps heal sores, makes skin soft and smooth.
Heals inflamed gums.
Other uses
irritations of the prostate
catarrh of the bladder
kidney troubles
bronchial troubles
dropsy
douche for leukorrhea
treats diarrhea
bowel complaints
scrofula
inflamed tissues in various parts of the body