Menyanthes trifoliata

Menyanthes trifoliata is an aquatic, rhizomatous perennial herb from the genus Menyanthes, in the family Gentianaceae, 20-30cm tall.

It is also referred to “heady grass” in the Compendium of Materia Medica. People from some provinces and cities in China have the habits of collecting Menyanthes trifoliata to make pickles, which make them feel sleepy after eating. Hence, it is named "sleeping vegetable". Its leaves taste a little bitter, which can treat insomnia and have the effect of tranquilizing, also can be used as a bitter agent for beer.

Menyanthes trifoliata is mainly distributed in northern China, western Sichuan and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. In Central China, only Dajiuhu Wetland has records of distribution in shallow water.