Cough High in Vitamin C, Watercress is used as a general tonic, and its bitter taste is thought to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion. In Italy, compresses made from Watercress are used to treat arthritis. Homeopathic practitioners prescribe it for nervous conditions, constipation, and liver disorders. Only as a remedy for cough and bronchitis, however, has it been conclusively found effective. The plant is found almost all over the world and is grown commercially in many regions.
Watercress contains mustard oil, a compound that flushes excess water from the body.
Researchers have also shown that the herb kills bacteria. Not for children under 4. At routine dosage levels, Watercress poses no problems. However, eating large quantities of freshly-harvested Watercress can irritate the stomach and intestines due to its mustard oil content. No interactions have been reported.