Bidens Pilosa: A Weed with Medicinal Value

Origins and Distribution

Bidens pilosa, also known as black jack, is an herbaceous flowering plant found in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is an annual species widely distributed across temperate regions.

There are approximately 230 to 240 known Bidens species, with B. pilosa being a representative perennial herb.

Common Names

B. pilosa has numerous common names, including hitch hikers, black jack, and ajeran.

Medicinal Uses

In South Africa, B. pilosa has been traditionally used as an important medicinal plant.

Various cultural groups have employed it to treat a wide range of ailments.