By Umar Nsubuga
Evanice Manyiraho, an experienced herbal farmer from Kicwamba in Kabarole district, has spent years cultivating various medicinal plants.
Among these is the hydrocotyle plant, known for its valuable medicinal properties.
This herb, with its vibrant green, rounded leaves, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and today, its appeal is only growing.
Joining Manyiraho in discussing the intricacies of hydrocotyle farming is Dr Twaha Kakooza, a herbalist from Kayunga district. Together, they shed light on how to grow hydrocotyle successfully and the potential health benefits it offers.
Starting hydrocotyle farming
Hydrocotyle is a versatile herb, popular in traditional and alternative medicine for its various health benefits, which range from boosting skin health to reducing inflammation.
Cultivating hydrocotyle requires a specific environment to thrive.
According to Dr Kakooza, the herb grows best in a semi-shaded environment with plenty of moisture.
“Hydrocotyle prefers damp, slightly acidic soil that retains moisture but still has good drainage. It’s a plant that mimics nature’s wetland conditions,” he explains.
This means that farmers need to invest in proper soil preparation, ensuring it’s both rich and capable of holding water.
Dr Kakooza advises that planting should ideally begin at the start of the rainy season. This not only minimizes the need for frequent irrigation but also ensures young plants establish themselves well before the drier months.
Seedlings can be purchased from specialized herbal nurseries or grown from cuttings, which makes the process accessible for small-scale farmers.
“We recommend spacing the plants about 15-20 centimetres apart,” he notes, as this allows adequate airflow and prevents issues like mold growth.
Daily care and maintenance
Hydrocotyle farming, while rewarding, requires attentive care.
Manyiraho, who has years of hands-on experience, explains that the plants need frequent watering to maintain their preferred moisture levels.
“The soil should never completely dry out, especially in the early stages of growth,” she says.
However, overwatering can be harmful, as standing water may cause root rot, which can destroy entire sections of a crop. To strike a balance, Manyiraho uses a drip irrigation system that delivers consistent moisture without waterlogging the soil.
Weeding is another essential task in hydrocotyle farming. Because the plant thrives in a damp environment, it can easily be overtaken by weeds if left unchecked.
“Regular weeding is important,” says Manyiraho, adding that weed competition not only stunts growth but can also harbour pests and diseases.
She also advises using organic mulching, such as straw or leaves, to keep the soil moist and reduce weed growth. This natural approach aligns with her preference for sustainable farming methods, benefiting both the plants and the environment.
Benefits and market potential
Hydrocotyle is highly valued for its medicinal properties, which have drawn interest from both local and international markets.
Dr Kakooza points out that the herb is known for promoting skin health, treating minor infections, and improving blood circulation.
“In herbal medicine, hydrocotyle is used in tinctures, teas, and topical ointments,” he explains. It’s a popular ingredient in skincare, valued for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In Uganda, as well as across Africa and Asia, there is a growing demand for natural health remedies, including herbal plants like hydrocotyle. This demand presents an opportunity for farmers to enter a lucrative niche.
Manyiraho notes that by selling both fresh and dried hydrocotyle leaves, she has been able to meet various consumer preferences.
She also supplies to local herbalists and wellness centres ensuring that her harvest reaches a diverse clientele.
Challenges in hydrocotyle farming
Despite its potential, hydrocotyle farming is not without its challenges. One of the main issues is pest control, as the damp environment that hydrocotyle prefers can attract snails and other pests.
Manyiraho has found that organic pest control methods, such as manually removing snails and using neem oil, help keep pests under control without introducing harmful chemicals.
Another challenge is ensuring a reliable water source. Since hydrocotyle requires consistently moist soil, farmers need access to a steady water supply, particularly in dry seasons.
Dr Kakooza highlights the importance of planning for this, recommending water storage solutions, like tanks, to maintain irrigation when rainfall is low.
