The two most commonly harvested cattail plants are Tyhpa angustifolia and T. latifolia. T. angustifolia is slightly smaller in size than T. latifolia.  Both plants have similar structures and properties.

Here are Five Important Uses For Cattail:

1. Cattails, especially the pollen, are rich in protein.
2. The leaves have been used to weave shoes, mats, and baskets.  The ashes of the burned leaves can be used to help stop bleeding and heal wounds.
3. The jelly or sap that grows between the young leaves has antiseptic properties useful for treating wounds, boils, and skin infections.
4. In China, there is a famous soup called “milk soup of cattail” (Nai Tang Pu Cai).  Its popularity dates back to the Ming Dynasty. With its milky white color, crisp texture, and refreshing light flavor, it is a dish often served at important meals and festivals.
5. Cattails grown in poisoned arsenic water have reduced the poisonous level by 89%.

Find out more about cattail and how to use it.