The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs: A Guide to Understanding and Using Herbal Medicinals [Paperback ed.] 0757001440, 9780757001444

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A Guide

Understanding and Using Herbai Medicinais to

(Boston (PuBCic LiSrary ^Funded By JIL^/Walj^reen’s grant, 2006

iosteij E’lilic

Library

The

HEALING POWER of

Rainforest

HERBS A Guide

Understanding and Using Herbal Medicinals to

LESLIE TAYLOR, nd

RHONE SQUAPUBLISHERS

This book

is

not intended to provide medical advice and

is

sold with the under-

standing that the publisher and the author are not liable for the misconception or misuse of information provided. The author and Square One Publishers shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any

damage, or injury caused or alleged

be caused directly or indirectly by the information contained in this book, or the use of any substances mentioned. Readers should always check with a qualified health practitioner before beginning any herbal medicine treatment. loss,

to

Cover Designers: Phaedra Mastrocola and Jacqueline Michelus In-House Editor: Elaine Weiser Typesetter: Gary A. Rosenberg

Square One Publishers 115 Herricks

Road

Garden City Park, (877)

900-BOOK

NY 11040 (516) 535-2010

•

www.squareonepublishers.com

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Taylor, Leslie.

The healing power

of rainforest herbs

:

a guide to

understanding and using

herbal medicinals / Leslie Taylor, p.

cm.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN 0-7570-0144-0 1.

Rain forest plants

—Therapeutic use.

2.

Herbs

—Therapeutic use.

I.

Title.

RM666.H33T388 2005 615'.321—dc22 2004022843

Copyright

© 2005 by

Leslie Taylor

No

may

be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission All rights reserved.

part of this publication

of the cc^pyright owner.

Printed in the United States of America 10

987654

3

21

Contents 1.

2.

Introduction,

1

3. 4.

How

to

Use This Book, 7

Rainforest Destruction and Survival, 13

PART ONE

5.

6.

Rainforest Herbal Primer 7.

Differences and Similarities of Drugs

and Medicinal

Methods

Plants, 35

of Preparing Herbal Remedies, 47

Rainforest Remedies and Recipes, 57

PAR r lAVO

Quick Guides

to Medicinal Plants

of the

Amazon

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants, 65

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders, 93 Plant Data

Summary,

111

PART THREE Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

Abuta, 152

Clavo Huasca, 248

Manaca, 348

Acerola, 156

Copaiba, 250

Muira Puama, 353

Amargo, 158

Curare, 255

Mulateiro, 357

Amor

Damiana, 259

Mullaca, 359

Embauba, 262

Mulungu, 363

Andiroba, 171

Epazote, 267

Mutamba, 367

Annatto, 175

Erva Tostao, 272

Nettle, 371

Artichoke, 178

Espinheira Santa, 276

Passionflower, 377

Aveloz, 182

Eedegoso, 279

Pata de Vaca, 380

Avenca, 185

Gervao, 283

Pau d'Arco, 383

Balsam, 189

Graviola, 288

Pedra

Guacatonga, 295

Picao Preto, 392

Boldo, 196

Guaco, 299

Quinine, 397

Brazil Nut, 201

Guarana, 303

Samambaia, 402

Brazilian Peppertree, 204

Guava, 308

Sangre de Grado, 407

Camu-Camu, 208

Iporuru, 313

Sarsaparilla, 412

Carqueja, 210

Jaborandi, 316

Scarlet Bush, 417

Cashew, 214

Jatoba, 320

Simarouba, 420

Cat's Claw, 217

Jergon Sacha, 324

Stevia, 424

Catuaba, 224

Juazeiro, 328

Suma, 429

Cha de Bugre, 227

Jurubeba, 331

Tayuya, 434

Chanca

Kalanchoe, 334

Vassourinha, 437

Chuchuhuasi, 239

Maca, 338

Velvet Bean, 442

Cipo Cabeludo, 242

Macela, 345

Yerba Mate, 446

Seco, 162

Anamu,

Bitter

166

Melon, 192

Piedra, 229

Clavillia,

245

Conclusion, 453 Rainforest Resources, 461

References for Part Three, 471 Index, 513

Hume Caa,

389

To the Indigenous Peoples of the

Amazon

WE, THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES, have been an

Amazon

Biosphere for millennia.

We

that biosphere with respect, because

Rainforest.

integral part of the

used and cared for the resources of

it is

our home, and because we know

our survival and that of our future generations depend on it. Our accumulated knowledge about the ecology of our home, our models for that

Amazonian Biosphere, our reverence and respect for forest and its other inhabitants, both plant and animal, are

living within the the tropical

the keys to guaranteeing the future of the

our peoples, but also for

Our that

Basin, not only for

humanity.

experience, especially during the past 100 years, has taught us

when

politicians

capable of destroying

and

all

Amazon

and developers it

take charge of our

home, they are

because of their short-sightedness, their ignorance,

their greed.

We

are concerned that the

Amazon

the Indigenous Peoples, have been

left

peoples,

and

in particular

out of the environmentalists'

Amazonian Biosphere. The focus of concern of the environmental community has typically been the preservation of the tropical forests and its plant and animal inhabitants. Little concern has been shown for its human inhabitants who are also part of that biosphere. We are concerned that the Indigenous Peoples and their representative vision of the

organizations have been

left

out of the political process, which

is

determuiing the future of our homeland. The environmentalist community has at times lobbied on our behalf; it has spoken out and zvritten in the

Amazonian Indiaiis. While we appreciate these efforts, it should be made clear that we never delegated this power to the environmentalist community nor to any individual or organization

name

of the

zvithin that

community.

The most recognition

effective defense of the

and defense

Amazonian Biosphere

the

of the territories of the region's Indigejums

Peoples and the promotion of their models for living biosphere and for

is

managing

its

zvithiji that

resources in a sustainable zvay.

Coordinating Body for the Indigenous Organizations of the Amazon Basin (COICA), adapted from COICA's "To the Community of Concerned Environmentalists" (1989)

Digitized by the Internet Archive in

2016 with funding from

China-America

Digital

Academic

Library

(CADAL)

https://archive.org/details/healingpowerofraOOtayl

"To the center of the world yon have taken

Great Spirit and showed

and the only

me

the goodness

and

me

the beauty

the strangeness of the greening earth,

mother

—and

there the spirit shapes of things,

as they should be,

and

I

you have shown me

have seen."

—Susan Seddon Boulet From her book. Shaman

npiPiMWTOTTtriiif

Introduction

tall,

fair-skinned blonde

woman

River and into the remote areas of the

oddity of

sorts.

However,

for

down the Amazon Amazon rainforest is an

traveling

most

of

my

life I've

been told that

I'm odd. Admittedly, trekking through jungles, studying the plant knowl-

edge of indigenous Indian shamans and South American herbal healers, getting harassed in airport customs with a suitcase full of strange-looking

murky

the process, to just

and roots, and running a large corporation in pretty unusual. However, it never really was a goal of mine

liquids, bark, leaves, is

be "usual."

Most people who

first

a profession like this?"

meet

me

often ask:

Looking back,

my

"How

a series of

did you ever get into

journeys seems to have

and shaped it into what it is today. have to go back about twenty years to my most memorable journey, which started me onto this odd path where find myself today. first became interested in herbal medicine and alternative health redirected the course of

life

1

1

1

my

was diagnosed with acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML). Conventional medicine gave up on me after two years of traditional chemotherapy and cancer treatments and sent me home to die. was twenty-four years old and was told wouldn't see my twenty-fifth when,

in

mid-twenties,

I

1

1

birthday. But being the odd, determined, stubborn, rebellious individual

most people described me as even back then, didn't give up. Twenty years ago it was even harder than it is now to access accurate information on herbs and alternative therapies. But you might say that had a "dying need to know," and began studying alternative health with that

I

1

I

The Healing Power of

2

a vengeance.

With

a

combination of herbal medicine,

other natural healing modalities,

was diagnosed

I

Rainforest

Herbs

diet, nutrition,

and

as cancer-free eighteen

months later. Not only was my cancer gone, but the extensive damage that was done to my body and internal organs from the conventional cancer treatments was healed or on the mend. Another real oddity, I was told. My

who scoffed at anything herbal or unconventional, believes that was simply too stubborn to die. know there is sonae truth in that statement, but also believe that herbal medicine went a long way in curing my

oncologist, 1

1

I

cancer and healing

What

my body.

didn't understand then (or now, really)

I

is

why

they

call

chemotherapy and today's modern medicine "conventional medicine" and refer to herbal

that herbal

medicine as "alternative."

medicine was

much more

My personal journey showed me

conventional.

It

dates back literally

centuries in time, with the less-than-1 00-year-old pharmaceutical industry offering the "alternatives" to the plant medicines we've used since before

human

beings even learned

herbal medicine

was much more

medicine offered

tional

how

After winning this

to chronicle their uses.

At

least for

effective than the "alternatives"

my personal battle with cancer. battle, continued on in my business

me

me,

conven-

in

I

career in

and selling them when became bored with their day-to-day management. In business I was considered "successful," and that success resulted in a ballistic, workaholic lifestyle. I continued studying herbal medicine and alternative health as a hobby, choosing to use herbs and natural health rather than drugs for my and my family's health. They thought I was pretty odd too, but they accepted the strange herbal potions and nutritional remedies I gave them when they were sick. Then, in 1989, 1 took a much-needed vacation that changed the course of my life yet again. Maybe it was just the first time I had taken a breath or Texas, starting companies in several different industries I

a break in

many years, but a journey

nected

me

make

change

to the land, nature,

and

to the

wilds of Africa

wildlife.

It

showed me

somehow that

I

recon-

needed

to

had created, which was involved in the ego of success and the power of money and which wasn't really personally fulfilling. So, when I returned from Africa, I sold my companies, bought a ranch in the hill country of Texas, and "retired." a

—

There

in a conventional, sort of

north of Austin to the local

in the hectic, harried life

—

I

I

backwards, rural Texas community

quickly became "the odd

at

Clear Creek Ranch"

grew weird plants, herbs, and vegetables, teenage boys and exotic animals (which hard-

farmers and ranchers.

raised a motley menagerie of

woman

1

Introduction

3

had too much land that was '"unproductive," and was obviously in dire need of a husband to make her do things right. Leastwise, that's what the local farmers and ranchers would tell you. That didn't keep them from dropping by to tell me about their aches and pains to see what kind of odd concoction of plants 1 might pick out of the gardens and give them, and which somehow mysteriously worked. Often, they'd just drop by to see what odd thing 1 was up to that day. Wanting to give something back (and a bit bored with farm life), 1 start-

ly

ever acted like they were supposed

to),

ed a small consulting company there on the ranch. The company (me)

AIDS

researched and collected information on cancer and

were being used

how

world and taught cancer patients

in other places in the

they could access them.

My

was

personal mission

make

research on alternative therapies and to

same

therapies that

to

compile

the

all

the information available to

had once confronted. It had been a great source of frustration and a committed struggle for me to try to access this type of information when I had cancer, especially at a time when I had little enough energy to just get through a day. It was during this research that I came across an herbal extract that was those faced with the

struggle that

I

AIDS patients, with some was a simple extract of a nat-

sold as an herbal drug in Europe for cancer and interesting results.

When

1

determined that

it

supplement

ural plant that could be sold here as an herbal

money

than the European

company was

source where the plant grew.

My

charging),

decided to go to the

I

mission then was to try to import the

The plant was

plant into the United States.

(for a lot less

called cat's claw (Uticnrin tomen-

and the source was the Amazon rainforest in Peru. This new journey the Amazon rainforest changed the course of my life yet again.

tosa),

into

On

that first journey into the rainforest,

I

fell in

the jungle, the people, the culture, the lifestyle trees, the incredible rivers ... all of I

also saw,

happening

on

in

Amazon. saw that it smoke and be wiped off

in

my lifetime.

I

Waiting for

I

want

to start a

new company

help stop the destruction of the

how

then, but

I

knew

that

that the

and

rainforest.

was

whole thing

the face of the Earth, conceivably

Lima airport

the

in the States to I

love with

destruction that

and excited and decided

derful plant called cat's claw but that to

fell in

attitude, the plants

amount of was possible

my flight home in

there sunburned, bug-bit, tired,

I

which make up the Amazon

that first trip, the incredible

in the

could go up

and

love.

also

Amazon

had

in Peru,

1

sat

that not only did

begin importing this wonto try to

rainforest.

I

make

a difference

didn't quite

know

an odd, determined, stubborn, rebellious sort of

person such as myself had as good a chance as anyone else did.

The Healing Power of

4

That was the beginning of a group of companies that thoughts sitting in the Lima airport, and Texas.

I

came out

officially

Rainforest Herbs

I

two days

founded

in

my

later in Austin,

and began importing cat's claw into the Through my ongoing work with the company and the many subsequent trips to the Amazon, I learned more and more

of "retirement"

United States shortly thereafter.

about the other medicinal plants that

were used as natural medicines by the indigenous peoples in the rainforest and began importing those as well. My company quickly outgrew Clear Creek Ranch and it was time to sell it and move back into the city as the journey, which now seemed to have a life of its own, continued forward. In

Xingu River

Amazon

in

the

rainforest

outside of Altamira, Brazil.

my work

with the Raintree

group of companies which I founded in 1995, I have been setting up plant harvesting programs with Indian tribes and rural Amazon communities, that are today, sustainably harvesting more than sixty medicinal plants from Peru, Brazil, Ecuador,

and Colombia.

me

My

ongoing research on medicinal

where I work side by side with indigenous tribal shamans and medicine men, rural village herbalists and local "doctors" called curanderos, as well as North and South American herbalists, plant chemists, and universities. Traveling through the remote areas of the Amazon where medicines, hospitals, and doctors are virtually non-existent has brought an opportunity to learn as a practitioner how to treat illnesses and diseases that I malaria, diphtheria, yellow would never encounter in the United States fever, typhoid, and leprosy, just to name a few (not to mention the incredible bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections I've seen!). As a practitioner or healer in the jungle, I am called "jaguar-woman," white witch, shaman, an Indian phrase that translates to "big mother in charge," or curandera (healer) by the remote villages and Indians I visit and work with. I use their ancient knowledge of their plants and combine it with western research and science, so my "potions" are different, yet familiar, to their shamans and healers. Again, they think Tm pretty odd too, but many have never seen a very tall blonde woman with blue eyes and freckles (which many shamans have tried to cure me of!). As a board certified naturopath here in plants continues to take

into the heart of the rainforest,

.

.

.

Introduction

the States,

I

5

enjoy working on the

who have

people

exhausted

unusual jungle remedy for

some

their cure. I

seems my life has come full circle find myself helping many cancer

It

now

my practice, when it was once me that was faced with this dead-

patients in

ly disease so

many

Oddly enough, career, this is the ket,

cases that get referred to me-

other therapies and are willing to try

all

twenty years, and

in the last

many hard

make work,

years ago. of

all

the businesses

I

have founded and managed

my

in

only one that I've never had to determinedly push, mar-

or direct. Since they were created,

I

have

literally

ning behind them trying to keep up. They seem to have a

life,

been runpath,

and

own; and I have never worked so hard, had so much fun and adventure, and been as personally fulfilled as I am today. It has certainly been a grand adventure. However odd it is, I feel I am truly blessed to be on the path I find myself on today. purpose of

their

My journey has just recently been redirected yet again:

—

Tve moved myself and company lock, stock, and barrel to Carson City, Nevada. It seems that it was time for me to focus on helping some North American Indian tribes, much in the same manner that I've been assisting the South American Indians over the years. If this new venture/adventure is successful, my next book may well be on North American Indian medicinal plants and the need to put our own Native Americans back onto their ancestral lands (now owned and controlled by our government's this year,

—

forestry agencies) as caretakers of the land in sustainable

plant harvesting programs. that will be! Believe

—

once

in the last

it

What an adventurous journey

or not,

I

haven't been bored

nine years; that doesn't look like

changing any time soon,

it

— not

will

be

either!

became known as "the white witch of the Amazon," was (and am) a businesswoman first and foremost. When first arrived in the Amazon, approached the rainforest and rainforest conservation in a business-like manner and began to look for business solutions to rainforest destruction. This was odd to the activists and conservationists came across, but again, was used to being believed then and now that, wherever you are in the world, called odd. basic business strategies still apply. Greed is greed and profits are profits, even in the remote jungles. If you want someone to do something, make it Before

I

I

I

I

1

I

I

profitable for

them

to

do and

it's

not so hard to convince them. So

1

set

A

cloud forest in the high elevations of the Peruvian jungle.

The Healing Power of

6

about showing people in the rainforest

how

Rainforest

Herbs

make more money

they could

sustainably harvesting medicinal plants like cat's claw than they could

make

timber harvesting, grazing livestock, agriculture, or subsistence

at

cropping but

—practices that destroy the

and it works. The only component left to make it's

forest.

It

effective

the market

demand

this

business strategy

alternative health

growing

at

work

for these sustainable forest resources so that

in profits for those participating. That's not as

is

sounds almost too simple,

hard as

and natural /herbal products industry

an unprecedented

rate.

Recent

statistics

it

sounds

it

in the

show

is

to create

can result

either.

The

United States

that

consumers

have spent more out-of-pocket funds on alternative health and alternative health products and supplements than they

have

for conventional

few years.

And

medicine over the past

the rainforest does provide a

wealth of beneficial natural products and highly effective

medicinal plants for that industry.

This book represents almost ten years of

my

personal research and documentation on

these important medicinal plants in the

Ama-

zon rainforest during my journeys into the South American jungles and in my journey with Raintree.

The author with shaman Don Antonio Monteviero, assistant,

Meija, director of

ACEER research center.

firmly believe that medicinal

plants, such as those discussed in this book, are the true wealth of the rainforest

and the means by which

it

can be saved from destruction. They have

his

and Yvone

I

and well-being

of the inhabitants

their sustainable harvesting, they

can and will pos-

for centuries positively affected the health

of the forest.

Through

itively affect the health, well-being, It is

my

sincere

hope

and continuance

of the rainforest

itself.

that you, the reader of this book, will learn an

appreciation of the rainforest and

why it is

so important to be saved; learn

more about the wealth of beneficial medicinal plants it provides us; and learn how you can take part in positively affecting your health and the health of the rainforest with these wonderful plants.

May your own

journeys and adventures be prosperous!

Yours in health, Leslie Taylor,

ND

How TO

Book

This

his

book

is

Use

divided into three main sections. The

first

vides an introductory discussion on the rainforest, the forest in particular,

and the

issues involved in

its

chapter pro-

Amazon rain-

destruction and

preservation. Part One: Rainforest Herbal Primer provides information on

herbal medicine principles in general, the similarities and differences

between using herbs and drugs, methods of preparing herbal remedies, and some recipes for rainforest remedies. Part Two: Quick Guides to Medicinal Plants of the tial

Amazon

includes helpful at-a-glance references to essen-

information on rainforest herbs.

If

you are

interested in finding the best

— for example, stimulating the laxative effect — turn to Properties and

herbs to take for producing a desired effect

immune system

or producing a

Actions of Rainforest Plants. This table includes the technical terms and definitions of the functions

the plants

and actions

that are attributed to various herbs;

most widely used by herbalists

for achieving

such

results; a list

have been researched and scientifically validated; and those that have been traditionally used by indigenous peoples. If you are searching for the plants to use for the treatment of a specific disorder, go to Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders, which matches an of those plants that

extensive

list

of various diseases with the rainforest plants used as treat-

ment. The Plant Data

Summary

is

a section that offers a quick look at each

of the rainforest herbs discussed in this book. Essential information

is list-

main actions of the herb; its primary preparation method; its main uses; which actions have been documented by scientific research or traditionally used; and any cautions to using the herb. This summary.

ed, such as the

The Healing Power of

8

Rainforest

which has been conveniently condensed, guides the reader as

to

Herbs

which

plants to read about in greater detail in Part Three: Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon. on seventy-four medicinal

Part Three provides extensive information

You will find the following information on each plant: family, genus, and species; common names; parts used; properties and actions; main text on the plant; worldwide uses of the herb; and plant chemical information. The main text provides wellplants, trees, vines,

and herbs of the

rainforest.

referenced information about each plant. This information includes: •

what the plant looks

•

where and how

•

the history of

•

its

chemicals and their properties

•

its

biological activities

•

its

current practical uses

•

the traditional preparation

•

its

its

it

like

grows

uses by rainforest inhabitants and in herbal medicine

and

clinical research

methods

for

remedies and dosages

Rainforest plant clavo huasca.

contraindications and possible drug interactions

PLANT CHEMICAL INFORMATION Often, the plant's effective uses or actions are closely tied to specific chemicals

to

found

have

in the plant,

chemicals that have been tested and documented

specific biological activities. In other

why

words, knowledge of the

works for certain disorders. It can also help determine if a plant may have any contraindications, drug interactions, or other cautions. Many readers will just skim over this sort of information, especially the list of chemicals. However, it is very difficult to access this information, and many medical professionals, pharmacists, botanists, researchers, scientists, and alternative health profeschemicals in the plants can help explain

the plant

sionals will value this information.

The plant chemical data provided is a summary of chemicals that have been documented to exist in the plant. It does not include every known chemical in the plant, and no distinction has been made as to which chemicals are found in the different parts of the plant (leaves, fruit, bark, and so on). Therefore, the chemical data may or may not be all-inclusive or complete. It is provided as a general reference for the more experienced reader.

How

to Use This

Book

9

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES AND CLINICAL RESEARCH An overview

of scientific laboratory research

about each plant

is

and

clinical

data or research

provided. Complete citations of the studies that are

ref-

erenced in the text are found in the References section in the back of the book. You also will see the distinction as to whether the research was per-

formed formed

in vivo

in

or

in vitro. In vivo

studies refer to research that has been per-

animals or humans to determine the effects of a particular

chemical/herb/drug.

conducted "in the

In vitro studies refer to research

test tube."

Studies performed to determine antibacterial activity provide good

examples of the differences between the two terms. In an

would be placed some form of extract

bacteria

in a test tube or a petri dish,

(or

of the plant) to determine

extract kills the bacteria or stops

its

growth. In an

in vitro

study,

along with a plant

if

and/or study, an ani-

the plant

in vivo

mal would be inoculated with bacteria and then administered the plant or extract to determine infection,

and

at

if

the plant

what dosage.

effective in treating the bacterial

is

Clearly, in vivo studies are

effective in verifying a plant's uses

and how they might

much more

affect a specific

disease or you. Yet, this is just a point of reference as well: rat or

mouse does not always

relate to

how

it

how

a plant

will affect

might

affect a

humans. Readers

no manner standardized, and different results will be demonstrated based on the methods employed by the researcher. As stated earlier, wherever possible, the summary of research provided will differentiate whether the study was performed in vitro or in vivo and will give information on the types of methods should also understand that

scientific research is in

or extracts that were used.

TRADITIONAL PREPARATIONS amounts

have been included in the plant information, provided in Part Three, for a reason. These dosage amounts are based on the long history of the plant's use and should be followed within reason. They've been calculated for an average-weight adult person of 120 to 150 pounds and should be generally adjusted up or down based on body weight. Take less if you weigh under 120 pounds and more if you

Traditional dosage

for plants

weigh more than 150 pounds (up to double the recommended dosage if you weigh 300 pounds or more). If you plan on taking more than one and one-half times the dosages indicated for your weight, it is best to check with

The Healing Power of

10

who has experience with

a qualified herbalist, naturopath, or physician

particular plant

you

Rainforest Herbs

the

are choosing to take.

CONTRAINDICATIONS AND DRUG INTERACTIONS Some

of the plants featured in this

for most, there is little data

combination with the

book

are not without side effects,

and

about their suitability and contraindications in

many pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed in the

The history of the medicinal uses of these plants mostly comes from South America and Third World countries that typically do not United

States.

have access ed

States.

to the types of prescription

drugs commonly used

For this reason, the information that

is

in the Unit-

provided for contraindi-

and drug interactions is not all-inclusive or complete. Also, as discussed in Chapter 2, much of the data provided in this book on contraindications and drug interactions is based on the plants' chemistry (and documented effects of those chemicals), rather than on funded human clinical studies proving a drug interaction or a medical contraindication. Drug interaction studies just aren't performed on most medicinal plants anywhere. If you are taking any prescription drug, always check with your doctor first before taking herbal supplements or using any of the cations

plants featured in this book.

WORLDWIDE ETHNOMEDICAL USES TABLE Ethnic uses of medicinal plants can be very important.

used

way

in a specific

for a specific

purpose

different geographical areas, there certainly effective.

research

It is

this

first anci

for

is

many

If

years and in

a reason for

what

to

study them

for.

documented ethnic uses conditions and illnesses It

table

many

probably

for

documentasummarizes all the this

which the plant has been used by people

includes tribal or indigenous uses, as well as current

plants are employed, without distinction. table should only be

our plant-

of the plant. This information includes specific

uses in herbal medicine. This information summarizes

used as a reference,

should be reviewed for more

in

is

In fact, the majority of

The Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses

around the world.

it: it

been

information that helps scientists target which plants to

based drugs or pharmaceuticals were discovered through tion process.

a plant has

how

all

parts of the

The information shown in the and the main body of the text

detail.

You must be observant when reviewing the documentation provided this table. Although a plant may be documented to be anti-inflammato-

— How to

ry,

Use This Book

the ethnic use

may be as a

topical

inflammatory aid for something such

as skin rashes, rather than as an anti-inflammatory taken internally for arthritis or

stomach inflammation. Or, many

and employed by indigenous people in

tribal

remedies documented

call for a specific

bath water for a "bathing remedy," rather than taken internally Other

times, a disease or condition like herpes or malaria

and

listed in the

may

reveal that

symptoms such ial

plant to be placed

may

be documented

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses table; the text, however, the specific plant has been employed as an aid to treat

as fever or lesions rather than as an antiviral or antimalar-

aid to directly affect the illness. For these

reasons,

it is

important to read the main text

on the plant and use the table only as a general reference.

Please torical

remember

this

information

account about

how

is

an

his-

these tropical

employed as natural South American and Third

rainforest plants are

remedies in

—

World countries. This as well as all of the information found in this book is not a medical claim or recommendation to use herbs in place of proper medical care.

—

Please always check with a qualified health

any herbal medicine program on your own you are taking prescription drugs or have (or think you may

practitioner before beginning

especially

if

have) a serious medical disorder or disease.

At the end of

this

book, you will find the Rainforest Resources section.

Here, you will find valuable information, including: sources for obtaining sustainable rainforest products, nonprofit rainforest organizations, sug-

gested reading on sustainability and rainforest conservation issues, and online resources about rainforest plants and rainforest conservation.

Leaves and flowers of rainforest plant

sangre de grado.

CHAPTER

1

Rainforest Destruction AND Survival ^

he beauty, majesty, and timelessness of a primary rainforest are indeimpossible to capture on film, to describe in words,

\ scribable. It is

^or

to explain to those

who have

never had the awe-inspiring expe-

rience of standing in the heart of a primary rainforest.

Rainforests have evolved over millions of years to turn into the incred-

complex environments they are today. Rainforests represent a store of living and breathing renewable natural resources that for eons, by virtue of their richness in both animal and plant species, have contributed a wealth of resources for the survival and well-being of humankind. These ibly

resources have included basic food supplies, clothing, shelter, fuel, spices, industrial

raw

majesty of the is

and medicine for all those who have lived in the However, the inner dynamics of a tropical rainforest

materials, forest.

an intricate and fragile system. Everything

is

so interdependent that

unknown damage or even destruction of the only a century of human intervention to destroy

upsetting one part can lead to

whole. Sadly,

it

has taken

what nature designed

to last forever.

THE PROBLEM The scale of human pressures on ecosystems everywhere has increased enormously in the last few decades. Since 1980 the global economy has tripled in size and the world population has increased by 30 percent. Consumption of everything on the planet has risen at a cost to our ecosystems. In 2001, The World Resources Institute estimated that the demand for

—

The Healing Power of

14

rice,

wheat, and corn

being

destroyed at an estimated rate of 20,000 square

miles a year.

If

done to curb the entire

nothing

this trend,

Amazon

be gone within

is

fifty

expected to grow by 40 percent by 2020, increasing

demands bv 50 percent or more. The the demand for wood could double bv the

Institute further

reported that

year 2050; unfor-

it is still

the world's is

the tropical forests of the world that supply the bulk of

demand

for

wood.

about 15 percent of the Earth's land surface was covered by rainforest. Today, more than half has already gone up in smoke. In fewer In 1950,

fifty

years,

more than

en victim

to fire

and the chain

than

erating. Unbelievably,

could

every day. That

is

years.

78 million acres

lost

tion continues.

It is

have

half of the world's tropical’rainforests sa\v,

and the

more than 200,000

more than

rate of destruction

150 acres lost e\ ery minute of

and much more

is

If

nothing

Amazon

burned every day, and

Amazon

done

is

to

is

curb

vanishing

-

soil erosion,

rain-

at a rate

this trend, the entire

could well be O iione within fift\' years. Massive deforestation brings with it many ugly consequences

water pollution,

accel-

severely threatened as the destruc-

estimated that the .Amazon alone

of 20,000 square miles a year.

is still

fall-

acres of rainforest are

every year! More than 20 percent of the

forest is already gone,

—

air

and

malaria epidemics, the release of carbon diox-

ide into the atmosphere, the e\ iction

and decimation

of indige-

and the loss of biodiversity through extinction of plants and animals. Fewer rainforests mean less rain, less oxygen for us to breathe, and an increased threat from global warming. But who is really to blame? Consider what we industrialized Americans ha\ e done to our own homeland. We converted 90 percent of North America's \ irgin forests into firewood, shingles, furniture, railroad ties, and paper. Other industrialized countries have done no better. Malaysia, Indonesia, Brazil, and other tropical countries with rainforests are often branded as "envinous Indian

Loggers transporting Amazon timber down the river.

Herbs

irrigation water

tunately,

The Amazon

is

Rainforest

tribes,

ronmental villains" of the world, mainh’ because of

their reported levels

of destruction of their rainforests. But despite the levels of deforestation,

up

to 60 percent of their territory

In fact, today,

much

is still

of the pressures

from servicing the needs and markets

covered bv natural tropical

on

their

for

remaining rainforests come

\vood products in industrialized

countries that have already depleted their

own

natural resources. Indus-

hardwoods and timber had we not cut down our own trees long ago, nor would poachers in the Amazon jungle be slaughtering jaguar, ocelot, caiman, and otter if we did not provide lucrative markets for their skins in Berlin, Paris, and Tokyo. trial

countries

would not be buying

forests.

rainforest

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

15

THE BIODIVERSITY OF THE RAINFOREST Why

should the loss of tropical forests be of any concern

to

us in light of

our ou^n poor management of natural resources? The loss of tropical rain-

profound and devastating impact on the world because

forests has a

forests are so biologically diverse,

temperate

forests)

Europe's rivers.

A 25-acre plot of rainforest in Borneo may contain more than 700 species of trees

•

facts:

A single pond in Brazil can sustain a greater variety of fish than is found in all of

•

(e.g.,

on Earth.

Consider these •

more so than other ecosystems

rain-

—a number equal

to the total tree diversity of

A single rainforest reserve in Peru

is

home

to

more

North America.

species of birds than

are found in the entire United States. •

One

single tree in Peru

of ants

—a

total that

was found

to

harbor forty-three different species

approximates the entire number of ant species

in the

British Isles. •

The number

of species of fish in the

in the entire Atlantic

The biodiversity 1

percent of

its

is lost,

exceeds the number found

Ocean.

of the tropical rainforest

is

so

immense

that less than

millions of species have been studied by scientists for their

active constituents forest

Amazon

and

their possible uses.

the impact on the

their possible uses

is

When

an acre of tropical rain-

number of plant and animal

staggering. Scientists estimate that

species lost and

we are losing more

than 137 species of plants and animals every single day because of rainforest deforestation.

Surprisingly, scientists have a better understanding of

there are in the galaxy than they have of

how many

how many

stars

species there are on

Earth. Estimates vary from 2 million to 100 million species, with a best esti-

somewhere near 10 million; only 1.4 million of these species have actually been named. Today, rainforests occupy only 2 percent of the entire mate

of

and 6 percent of the world's land surface, yet these remaining lush rainforests support over half of our planet's wild plants and trees and one-half of the world's wildlife. Hundreds of thousands of these rainforest species are being extinguished before they have even been identified, much less catalogued and studied. The magnitude of this loss to the world Earth's surface

Some

scientists believe

that there are

between

10 million and 30 million

yet-to-be-discovered insect species living

rainforest

canopy

in

trees.

The Healing Power of

16

was

by Harvard's Edward O. Wilson over a decade ago:

naost poignantly described

ogist

Rainforest Herbs

Pulitzer Prize-winning biol-

The worst thing that can happen during the 1980s is not energy depletion, economic collapses, limited nuclear war, or conquest by a totalitarian government. As terrible as these catastrophes would be for us, they can be repaired within a few generations. The one process ongoing in the 1980s that will take millions of years to correct is the loss of genetic

of natural habitats. This likely to forgive

Yet

still

us

and species diversity by the destruction

is

the folly that our descendants are least

for.

the destruction continues.

rates, scientists estimate nearly

If

deforestation continues at current

80 to 90 percent of tropical rainforest ecosys-

tems will be destroyed by the year 2020. This destruction

is

the

main

force

driving a species extinction rate unmatched in 65 million years.

THE AMAZON RAINFOREST THE LAST FRONTIER ON EARTH .

The Amazon

Rainforest

has been described as the “lungs of our planet”

because

it

provides the

essential service of

continuously recycling

carbon dioxide into oxygen.

If

Amazonia were

Amazon

a country,

it

.

would be

rainforest, the world's greatest

.

remaining natural resource,

most powerful and bioactively diverse natural phenomenon on the has been described as the "lungs of our planet" because tial

The

the ninth largest in the world.

it

is

the

planet.

It

provides the essen-

service of continuously recycling carbon dioxide into oxygen.

It is

esti-

more than 20 percent of Earth's oxygen is produced in this area. The Amazon covers more than 1.2 billion acres, representing two-fifths of the enormous South American continent, and is found in nine South American countries: Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname. With 2.5 million square miles of mated

that

rainforest, the

forests left

Amazon

rainforest represents 54 percent of the total rain-

on Earth.

The Amazon River The

life

force of the

Amazon rainforest is the mighty Amazon River.

It

starts

snow-capped Andes Mountains and flows more than 4,000 miles across the South American continent until it enters the Atlantic Ocean at Belem, Brazil, where it is 200 to 300 miles across, depending on the season. Even 1,000 miles inland it is still 7 miles wide. The river is so deep that ocean liners can travel up its length to 2,300 miles inland. as a trickle high in the

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

17

The Amazon River flows through the center of the rainforest and is fed by 1,100 tributaries, seventeen of which are more than 1,000 miles long. The Amazon is by far the largest watershed and largest river system in the world, occupying over 6 million square kilometers. Over two-thirds of all the fresh water found on Earth is in the Amazon Basin's rivers, streams, and tributaries. With so much water it is not unusual that the main mode of transportation throughout the area is by boat. The smallest and most common boats used today are still made out of hollowed tree trunks, whether they are powered by outboard motors or more often by human-powered paddles. Almost 14,000 miles of Amazon waterway are navigable, and several million miles through swamps and forests are penetrable by canoe. The enormous Amazon River carries massive amounts of silt from runoff from the rainforest floor. Massive amounts of silt deposited at the mouth of the Amazon River has created the largest river island in the world Marajo Island, which is roughly the size of Switzerland. With this massive freshwater system, it is not unusual that life beneath the water is as abundant and diverse as the surrounding rainforest's plant and animal species. More than 2,000 species more species than in the of fish have been identified in the Amazon Basin

—

Children of the Peruvian Amazon paddling to school.

—

entire Atlantic Ocean.

Over

Largest Collection of Plant

Earth

The Amazon Basin was formed in the Paleozoic period, somewhere between 500 million and 200 million years ago. The extreme age of the region in geologic terms has much to do with the relative infertility of the rainforest soil and the richness and unique diversity of the plant and animal life. There are more fertile areas in the Amazon River's flood plain, where the river deposits richer soil brought from the Andes, which only

zon rainforest

is

(2.47 acres) of

Amazon

the highest

on Earth.

It is

living plant in the

Ama-

estimated that a single hectare

rainforest contains about 900 tons of living plants,

including more than 750 types of trees and 1,500 other plants. The Andean mountain range and the Amazon jungle are home to more than half of the

world's species of flora and fauna;

world

live in the rainforests of the

in fact,

one

in five of all the birds in the

Amazon. To

date,

all

the fresh water found on

and Animal Species

formed 20 million years ago. The Amazon rainforest contains the largest collection of and animal species in the world. The diversity of plant species

two-thirds of

some 438,000

species

is

in

the

Amazon

Basin’s rivers, streams,

and

tributaries.

The Healing Power of

18

of plants of

economic and

and many more have yet

have been registered

social interest to

Rainforest Herbs

in the region,

be catalogued or even discovered.

Scarring and Loss of Diversity

Once a vast sea of tropical forest, the Amazon rainforest today is scarred by roads, farms, ranches, and dams. Brazil is gifted with a full third of the world's remaining rainforests; unfortunately,

it is

great rainforest destroyers, burning or felling

more than

each year. More than 20 percent of rainforest in the

and

is

gone

forever. This

the land

is

it.

2.7 million acres

Amazon has been razed

ocean of green, nearly as large as Australia,

the last great rainforest in the like the others before

one of the world's

also

known

Why?

universe and

it is

is

being decimated

Like other rainforests already lost forever,

being cleared for logging timber, large-scale cattle ranching,

mining operations, government road building and hydroelectric schemes, military operations, less settlers.

Sadder

and the subsistence agriculture still,

in

many

of peasants

and land-

places the rainforests are burnt simply to

provide charcoal to power industrial plants in the area.

THE DRIVING FORCES OF DESTRUCTION Commercial logging is the single both directly and indirectly. Other

largest cause of rainforest destruction, activities also

destroy the rainforest, in-

cluding clearing land for grazing animals and subsistence farming. The simple fact

is

that people are destroying the

Amazon

rainforest

and the

rest of

the rainforests of the world because "they can't see the forest for the trees."

Logging for Tropical Hardwoods Logging

tropical

ber for furniture,

hardwoods

mahogany, rosewood, and other timbuilding materials, charcoal, and other wood products is like teak,

big business and big profits. Several species of tropical

imported by developed counties, including the United coffins that are then buried or burned.

The demand,

hardwoods

are

States, just to build

extraction,

and con-

sumption of tropical hardwoods has been so massive that some countries that have been traditional exporters of tropical hardwoods are now importing

them because they have already exhausted

their

native rainforests in slash-and-burn operations. Philippines, Malaysia, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria,

low, as

all

It is

is

anticipated that the

and Thailand

these countries will run out of rainforest

export within five years. Japan

supply by destroying

soon

fol-

hardwood timber

for

will

the largest importer of tropical woods.

—

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

19

Despite recent reductions, Japan's average tropical timber import of

11 mil-

The demand for tropical hardwood timber is damaging to the ecological, biological, and social fabric of tropical lands and is clearly unsustainable for any length of time. Behind the hardwood logger come others down the same roads which were built to transport the timber. The cardboard packing and the wood chipboard industries use 15-ton machines that gobble up the rain-

lion cubic meters annually

forest

is still

gluttonous.

with 8-foot cutting discs that have eight blades revolving 320 times

a minute.

These machines that cut entire

trees into chips half the size of a

matchbox can consume more than 200 species of trees in mere minutes. Logging rainforest timber is a large economic source, and in many cases, the main source of revenue for servicing the national debt of these developing countries. Logging profits are real to those countries that must attend to their debts, but they are fleeting. Governments are selling their assets too cheaply, and once the rainforest is gone, their source of income will also be gone. Sadly, most of the real profits of the timber trade are made not by the developing countries, but by multinational companies and industrialists of the Northern Hemisphere. These huge, profit-driven companies pay governments a fraction of the timber's worth for large logging concessions on immense tracts of rainforest land and reap huge profits by harvesting the timber in the most economical manner feasible with little regard to the destruction left in their wake.

—

Logging concessions

in the

Amazon

are sold for as

as $2 per acre,

little

with logging companies felling timber worth thousands of dollars per acre.

Governments

are selling their natural resources,

hawking

resources that soon will be worth billions of dollars.

Some

for

pennies

of these gov-

ernment concessions and land deals made with industrialists make the sale of Manhattan for $24 worth of trinkets look shrewd. In 1986, a huge industrial timber corporation bought thousands of acres in the Borneo rainforest by giving 2,000 Malaysian dollars

sum amounted

to the price of

to

two

twelve longhouses of local

bottles of beer for each

tribes.

member

This

of the

community. Since then, this company and others have managed to extract and destroy about a third of the Borneo rainforest about 6.9 million acres and the local tribes have been evicted from the area or forced to

—

—

work

for the logging

Fuel

Wood and

In addition to

companies

at slave

wages.

the Paper Industry

being logged for exportation, rainforest

wood

oping countries for fuel wood and charcoal. One single

stays in devel-

steel plant in Brazil

The Healing Power of

20

making

steel for

Japanese cars needs millions of tons of

produce charcoal that can be used is

wood

manufacture of

in the

Rainforest

Herbs

each year to

steel.

Then, there

the paper industry.

One pulpwood

Amazon

project in the Brazilian

power plant and pulp

To

mill.

up

set

consists of a Japanese

this single plant operation, 5,600

square miles of Amazon rainforest were burned to the ground and replant-

ed with pulpwood

This single manufacturing plant consumes 2,000

trees.

tons of surrounding rainforest

estimated that the

paper industry alone

consume 4 rainforest

billion

wood

will

tons of

annually

by the year 2020.

every day to produce 55 megawatts

which has been in operation since 1978, produces more than 750 tons of pulp for paper every twenty-four hours, worth approximately $500,000, and has built 2,800 miles of roads through the Amazon rainforest to be used by its 700 vehicles. In addition, the world's biggest pulp mill is the Aracruz mill in Brazil. Its two units produce 1 million tons of pulp a year, harvesting the rainforest to keep the plant in business and displacing thousands of indigenous tribes. Where does all this pulp go? Aracruz's biggest customers are the United States, Belgium, Great Britain, and Japan. More and more rainforest is destroyed to meet the demands of the developed world's paper industry, which

The

of electricity to run the plant.

It is

wood

plant,

requires a staggering 200 million tons of paper.

If

the present rate continues,

it is

alone will consume 4 billion tons of

Once an chance

it

tem nature devised timber

grow

is

each year simply

wood

can never become what is lost

forever.

canopy manages

Only

to

make

estimated that the paper industry

annually by the year 2020.

area of rainforest has been logged, even

to regrow,

rainforest

wood

1

if it is

given the rare

once was. The intricate ecosys-

it

to 2 percent of light at the top of a

to reach the forest floor below.

Most times when

harvested, trees and other plants that have evolved over centuries to

humid environment below

in the dark,

the

canopy simply cannot

live

out in the open, and as a result, the plants and animals (that depend on the plants) of the original forest

become

extinct.

Even

if

only sections of land

throughout an area are destroyed, these remnants change

drastically. Birds

and other animals cannot cross from one remnant of land

to

another in the

canopy, so plants are not pollinated, seeds are not dispersed by the animals,

and the plants around the edges are not surrounded by the high jungle humidity

they need to

degraded and

grow

die.

As a result, the remnants slowly become Rains come and wash away the thin topsoil that was preproperly.

viously protected by the canopy, and this barren, infertile land to erosion.

Sometimes the land

more because grass planted on ations; other times

is

is

vulnerable

replanted in African grasses for cattle oper-

virgin rainforest

is

destroyed for cattle operations

recently burned land has a better chance to grow.

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

21

Grazing Land As the demand in the Western world for cheap meat increases, more and more rainforests are destroyed to provide grazing land for animals. In an estimated 220 million head of

Brazil alone, there are

cattle,

20 million

and 700 million chickens. Most of Central and Latin America's tropical and temperate rainforests have been lost to cattle operations to meet the world's demand, and still they continue to move southward into the heart of the South American rainforests. To graze one steer in Amazonia takes two full acres. Most of the ranchers in the Amazon opergoats, 60 million pigs,

ate at a loss, yielding only paper profits purely as tax shelters. Ranchers'

fortunes are

aways.

made only when ranching

supported by government give-

is

A banker or rich landowner in Brazil can slash and burn a huge tract

of land in the

Amazon

rainforest, seed

it

with grass for

cattle,

and

realize

millions of dollars worth of government-subsidized loans, tax credits, write-offs in return for developing the land. These

opment schemes

make

rarely

beef to industrialized nations.

owned by

Bank and one

British Barclays

government devel-

a profit, as they are actually selling

One single cattle ranch

and

cheap

was cofamilies was

in Brazil that

of Brazil's wealthiest

responsible for the destruction of almost 500,000 acres of virgin rainforest.

The

cattle

tered est

operation never

huge

profits

owned by

the

earned

same

made

off of

a profit, but

government

write-offs shel-

logging other land in the Brazilian rainfor-

investors.

These generous tax and credit incentives have created more than 29 million acres of large cattle ranches in the Brazilian Amazon, even though the typical ranch could cover less than half

its

costs without these subsi-

Even these grazing lands do not last forever. Soon the lack of nutrients in the soil and overgrazing degrade them, and they are abandoned for newly cleared land. In Brazil alone, more than 63,000 square miles of land dies.

has reportedly been abandoned in this way.

Subsistence Farming This type of government-driven destruction of rainforest land

by

a

common

attitude

tude that the forest

development of

is

among governments an economic resource

their countries.

colonization of our

own

The same

frontier are

is

promoted

in rainforest regions,

to

be harnessed

an

atti-

to aid in the

accompanied the Brazil and other coun-

attitudes that

found today

in

with wild and unharnessed rainforest wilderness. These beliefs are exemplified by one Brazilian official's public statement that "not until all tries

Millions of acres of

rainforests have lost to cattle

to

been

operations

meet the world’s

demand

for cheap meat.

The Healing Power of

22

Amazonas

is

colonized by real Brazilians, not Indians, can

Rainforest

we

Herbs

truly say

we

Were we Americans any different with our own colonization, decimating the North American Indian tribes? Like Brazil, we sent out a call to all the world that America had land for the landless in an effort to

own

it."

increase colonization of our country at the expense of our indigenous Indi-

an

tribes.

est really

And

like the first

American

colonists, colonization in the rainfor-

means subsistence farming.

Subsistence farming has for centuries been a driving force in the loss of rainforest land.

And

South America and the Far East, tion,

World countries in the impact has been profound. By tradi-

as populations explode in Third

wildlands and unsettled lands in the rainforest are free to those

clear the forest

and

till

hungry people show

the

little

soil.

"Squatter's rights"

enthusiasm

for

ging companies

when

These landless peasants and

down

prevail,

and poor,

arguments about the value of

biodiversity or the plight of endangered species to feed their families.

still

who

they struggle daily

settlers

follow the log-

the roads they have built to extract timber into

untouched rainforest lands, burning

off

whatever the logging companies

leave behind.

The present approach

to rainforest cultivation

a few, but only for a short time,

because farming burned-off

Amazon rainforest seldom works for long. zonian

soils are suitable for

produces wealth for tracts of

Less than 10 percent of Ama-

sustained conventional agriculture.

How-

ever lush they look, rainforests often flourish on such nutrient-poor However lush they

look,

rainforests often flourish

on such nutrient-poor soils that

essentially

they are

“wet deserts,"

easier to

damage and

harder to cultivate than any other

soil.

soils that

they are essentially "wet deserts," easier to

er to cultivate than

any other

soil.

Most

damage and hard-

by the time they the thousands of home-

are exhausted

have produced three or four crops. Many of steaders who migrated from Brazil's cities to the wilds of the rainforest, responding to the government's call of "land without men for men without land," have already had to abandon their depleted farms and move on, leaving behind fields of baked clay dotted with stagnant pools of polluted water.

Experts agree that the path to conservation begins with helping these local residents meet their

own

daily needs. Because of the infertil-

and the lack of knowledge of sustainable cultivation practices, this type of agriculture strips the soil of nutrients within a few harvests, and the farmers continue to move farther into the rainforest in search of new land. They must be helped and educated to break free of the need to continually clear rainforest in search of fresh, fertile land if ity of the soil,

the rainforest

is

to

be saved.

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

23

Leading the Threat: Governments and indirectly, the leading threats to rainforest ecosystems are governments and their unbridled, unplanned, and uncoordinated development of natural resources. The 2000-2001 World Resources Report put out by the United Nations reported that governments worldwide spend $700 billion dollars a year supporting and subsidizing environmentally unsound practices in the use of water, agriculture, energy, and transportation. In the Amazon, rainforest timber exports and large-scale development projects go a long way in servicing national debt in many developing countries, which is why governments and international aidlending institutions like the World Bank subsidize them. In the tropics, governments own or control nearly 80 percent of tropical forests, so these forests stand or fall according to government policy; and in many countries, government policies lie behind the wastage of forest resources. Besides the tax incentives and credit subsidies that guarantee large profits to private investors who convert forests to pastures and farms, governments allow private concessionaires to log the national forests on terms that induce uneconomic or wasteful uses of the public domain. Massive public expenditures on highways, dams, plantations, and agricultural settlements, too often supported by multilateral development Directly

lending, convert or destroy large areas of forest for projects of questionable economic worth. Tropical countries are

alone spends 40 percent of

among its

the poorest countries

annual income simply servicing

the per capita income of Brazil's people

these

gling

is

is

one of the richer countries

Amazonian

and valuable

countries must also

forests

in

its

Brazil

loans,

and

than $2,000 annually. Sadly,

less

numbers do not even represent an accurate

because Brazil

on Earth.

picture in the

Amazon

South America. These strug-

manage

the most complex, delicate,

remaining on the planet, and the economic and tech-

nological resources available to

them are

limited.

They must

also

endure

a

dramatic social and economic situation, as well as deeply adverse terms of

Under such conreaching sustainable models of development

trade and financial relationships with industrial countries. ditions, the possibility of their

alone

is

virtually

There

is

nil.

a clear

need

ly assist the tropics in a

opment

if

for industrial countries to sincerely

these developing countries need help in

effective-

management and develto be saved. The governments of learning how to manage and pro-

quest for sustainable forest

the remaining rainforests are

and

The Healing Power of

24

resources for long-term profits, while

tect their natural

reduce their debts, and they must be given the incentives

Programs

Rainforest

Herbs

managing to and tools to do so. still

to redefine the timber concessions so there are greater incentives

and programs to revive and expand community-based forestry schemes, which ensure more rational use of forests and a better life for the people who live near them, must be to

guard the long-term health of the

forest

developed. First- World capital

izations that

tainable

must seek out opportunities

have the technical expertise

to

to partner

with organ-

guide these programs of sus-

economic development. In addition, programs teaching techniques

for sustainable harvesting practices

and identifying

profitable, yet sus-

developing countries to improve the

tainable, forest products can enable

standard of living for their people, reduce national debt, and contribute

meaningfully

to

land-use planning and conservation of natural resources.

RAINFORESTS, PHARMACY TO THE It is

estimated that nearly half of the world's approximate 10 million species

of plants, animals, Rainforest plants are

complex chemical storehouses that contain

many undiscovered compounds with unrealized potential for

use

in

modern

medicine.

WORLD

and microorganisms

will be destroyed or severely

threatened over the next quarter-century due to rainforest deforestation.

Edward O. Wilson cies

estimates that

we

are losing 137 plant

every single day. That's 50,000 species a year! Again,

in the

and animal spe-

why

should

we

United States be concerned about the destruction of distant tropical

complex chemical storehouses contain many undiscovered biodynamic compounds with unrealized

rainforests? Because rainforest plants are that

potential for use in als

only

if

we

modern medicine. We can gain

access to these materi-

study and conserve the species that contain them.

Key to Tomorrow's Cures? Rainforests currently provide sources for one-fourth of today's medicines,

and 70 percent of the plants found to have anti-cancer properties are found only in the rainforest. The rainforest and its immense undiscovered biodiversity hold the key to unlocking tomorrow's cures for devastating diseases. How many cures for devastating disease have we already lost? Two drugs obtained from a rainforest plant known as the Madagascar periwinkle,

now

car rainforest,

extinct in the wild

to deforestation of the

have increased the chances of survival

leukemia from 20 percent children are

due

now

to 80 percent.

Think about

Madagas-

for children

it:

with

eight out of ten

saved, rather than eight of ten children dying from

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

leukemia.

25

How many children have been spared

and how many more

continue to be spared because of this single rainforest plant?

had

failed to discover this

human

activities

had led

are gone, the rare plants

to

What

will

if

we

one important plant among millions before its extinction? When our remaining rainforests

and animals

will

be

lost forever

—and so will the

possible cures for diseases like cancer they can provide.

No

one can challenge the

fact that

we

are

still

largely

dependent on

plants for treating our ailments. Almost 90 percent of people in developing

on traditional medicine, based largely on different species of plants and animals, for their primary health care. In the United States, some 25 percent of prescriptions are filled with drugs whose active ingredients are extracted or derived from plants. By 1980 sales of these plant-based drugs in the United States amounted to some $4.5 billion annually. Worldwide sales of these plant-based drugs were estimated at $40 billion in 1990. Currently, 121 prescription drugs sold worldwide come from plant-derived sources from only ninety species of plants. Still more drugs are derived from animals and microorganisms. countries

still

rely

More than 25 percent of the active ingredients in today's cancer-fighting drugs come from organisms found only in the rainforest. The U.S. National Cancer Institute has identified more than 3,000 plants that are and 70 percent of these plants are found only in the rainforest. In the thousands of species of rainforest plants that have not been analyzed are many more thousands of unknown plant chemicals, many of which have evolved to protect the plants from diseases. These active against cancer cells,

plant chemicals

may

well help us in our

own ongoing

stantly evolving pathogens, including bacteria, viruses,

struggle with con-

and fungi

mutating against our mainstream drugs and becoming resistant

These pathogens cause serious diseases, including tuberculosis,

Experts

now

and HIV,

all

believe that

probably be found

if

of

hepatitis,

which are becoming more

there

is

a cure for cancer

that are to

them.

pneumonia,

difficult to treat.

and even AIDS,

it

will

in the rainforest.

Bioprospecting were no U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturers involved in research programs to discover new drugs or cures from plants. Today, more In 1983, there

than 100 pharmaceutical companies, including giants like Merck, Abbott, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly, Monsanto, Smith-Kline Beecham, as well as several branches of the U.S. government, including the National Cancer

The

U.S. National

Cancer

Institute has identified

nnore than 3,000 plants that are active against

cancer

cells,

and 70

percent of these plants are found only rainforest.

in

the

The Healing Power of

26

Institute, are

engaged

Rainforest Herbs

in plant-based research projects trying to find possi-

ble drugs to treat infections, cancer,

this research is cur-

rently taking place in

and AIDS. Most of the rainforest in an industry

that

"bioprospecting." This

new

is

now

called

pharmacological industry draws together an

unlikely confederacy: plant collectors and anthropologists; ecologists and conservationists; natural product

manufacturers;

AIDS and

companies and nutritional supplement

cancer researchers; executives in the world's

drug companies; and native indigenous shamans. They are part of

largest

a radical experiment: to preserve the world's rainforests

much more

valuable they are standing than cut down.

against a clock it is

the

whose every

also a race that pits first

tick

means another

by showing how

And

it is

a race

acre of charred forest. Yet,

one explorer against another,

for those

who

score

big hit in chemical bioprospecting will secure wealth and a piece

of scientific immortality. In

November

1991,

landmark agreement

to

Merck Pharmaceutical Company announced a obtain samples of wild plants and animals for

drug-screening purposes from Costa Rica's National Biodiversity

program

Insti-

ongoing today. Spurred by this and other biodiversity prospecting ventures, interest in the commercial value of plant genetic and biochemical resources is burgeoning today. While the tute (INBio); the

is still

Merck-INBio agreement provides a fascinating example of a private partnership that contributes to rural economic development, rainforest conservation, and technology transfer, virtually no precedent exists for national policies and legislation to govern and regulate what amounts to a brand new industry. Since wealth and technology are as concentrated in most of the North as biodiversity and poverty are in much of the South, the question of equity

is

particularly hard to

a stake in the

not the

many

same

of

species

in

ways

that satisfy

everyone with

outcome. The interests of bioprospecting corporations are as those of people

whom

who

live in a biodiversity "hot spot,"

As

the search for wild

new medicines and

better crops gathers

are barely eking out a living.

whose genes can

momentum,

answer

yield

these rich habitats also sport

more and more bioprospectors.

Like the nineteenth-century California gold rush or

its

present-day coun-

wreak havoc on ecosystems and the people living in or near them. If it is done properly, however, bioprospecting can bolster both economic and conservation goals while underpinning the medical and agricultural advances needed to combat disease and sustain growing populations. terpart in Brazil, this "gene rush" could

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

The majority

27

of our current plant-derived drugs

were discovered by

examining the traditional use of plants by the indigenous people who lived where the plants grew and flourished. History has shown that the

and bioprospectors now are working side by side with rainforest tribal shamans and herbal healers to learn the wealth of their plant knowledge, and about the many uses of

situation with the rainforest

is

no

different,

indigenous plants.

UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF THE RAINFOREST After the Amerindians discovered America, about twenty millennia before

Columbus,

and

were derived from the forests. Those millennia gave the Indians time to discover and learn empirically the virtues and vices of the thousands of edible and medicinal species in the rainforest. More than 80 percent of the developed world's diet originated in the rainforest and from this indigenous knowledge of the all their

wealth of edible fruits

found

clothing, food, medicine,

fruits,

vegetables,

in the rainforest,

and

nuts.

Of

shelter

the estimated 3,000 edible

only 200 are cultivated for use today, despite

the fact that the Indians have used

more than

1,500.

Many

is

now

thought by

many

to

be the Amazon's

Long regard-

indigenous peoples

new

gold. Their

use of the plants provides the bioprospector with the clues necessary to

tar-

get specific species to research in the race for time before the species are lost

More often, the race is defined as being the first pharmacompany to patent a new drug utilizing a newly discovered rain-

to deforestation.

ceutical forest

phytochemical

—and, of course,

to

garner the

profits.

Indigenous People, A Valuable Resource Laboratory synthesis of

new medicines

is

increasingly costly and not as

words of one major drug company executive, "Scientists may be able to make any molecule they can imagine on a computer, but Mother Nature ... is an infinitely more ingenious and exciting chemist." Scientists have developed new technologies to assess the chemical makeup of plants, and they realize that using medicinal plants identified by Indians makes research more efficient and less fruitful as

companies would

expensive. With these

new

to its roots: traditional

like. In

the

drug development has actually returned medicine. It is now understood by bioprospectors trends,

hocus-pocus by science, the empirical plant

ed as hocus-pocus by science, the empirical plant knowledge of the indige-

nous peoples

as

and and

secrets

untold treasures about the medicinal plants used by shamans, healers, the indigenous people of the rainforest tribes await discovery.

Long regarded

knowledge of the

now

thought by many

to be the

new

is

gold.

Amazon’s

The Healing Power of

28

that the tribal peoples of the rainforest represent the

useful tropical forest plants.

A single Amazonian may use more

tribe

than 200

species of plants for medicinal purposes alone.

The degree

key

to finding

Amazonian

for medicinal

tribe of Indians

Herbs

new and

which these indigenous people

to

uncierstand and are able to use this diversity sustainably single

Rainforest

may use more

is

astounding.

A

than 200 species of plants

purposes alone.

Of the 121 pharmaceutical drugs that are plant-derived today, 74 percent were discovered through follow-up research to verify the authenticity of information concerning the medical uses of the plant by indigenous peoples. Nevertheless, to this day, very few rainforest tribes have been subjected to a complete ethnobotanical analysis. Robert Goodland of the World Bank wrote, "Indigenous knowledge is essential for the use, identification and cataloguing of the [tropicall biota. As tribal groups disappear, their knowledge vanishes with them. The preservation of these groups

is

a significant economic opportunity for the [develop-

ing! nation, not a luxury."

Amazonian Indians

Since

are often the only ones

who

and how they can best be used, their knowledge is now considered an essential component of all efforts to conserve and develop the rainforest. Since failure to document this lore would represent a tremendous economic and scientific loss to the industrialized world, the bioprospectors are now working side by side with the rainforest tribal shamans and herbal healers to learn the wealth of their

know both

Kayapo woman and

tribal

the properties of these plants

knowledge being used by bio-

plant knowledge. But bioprospecting has a dark side. Indian

child,

resisted the pressure of "modernization"

prospectors who, like threaten to

companies and loggers destroying the leave no benefits behind them.

Few Benefits It is

is

oil

forests,

for the Indigenous People

a noble idea

— the ethnobotanist working with the Indians seeking a

cure for cancer or even AIDS, like Sean Connery in the movie Medicine Man. Yet behind this lurks a system that, at

its

worst, steals the Indian knowl-

CEOs, stockholders, and academic

and reputations. The real goal of these powerful bioprospectors is to target novel and active phytochemicals for medical applications, synthesize them in a laboratory, and have them patented for subsequent drug manufacture and resulting profits. In this process, many active and beneficial plants have been found in the shaman's medicine chest, only to be ciiscarded when it was found edge

to benefit

careers

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

29

that the active ingredients of the plant

numbered

tively synthesized into a patentable drug.

beneficial the plant

is

or

how

(FDA) process might take not capitalize on

to

It

too

many

to

does not matter

be cost

how

covered benefits. The

active or

long the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

approve the new drug;

if

the bioprospector can

the public will rarely hear about a plant's

it,

effec-

money

newly

dis-

an

article

published in Economic Botany, Dr. Robert Mendelsohn, an economist

at Yale

University,

Botany

and

at the

Dr.

New

fact is there is a lot of

Michael

J.

at stake. In

Balick, director of the Institute of

York Botanical Gardens, estimate the

Economic

minimum num-

ber of pharmaceutical drugs potentially remaining to be extracted from the rainforests.

drugs that

It is

still

They estimate

staggering!

that there are at least 328

new

await discovery in the rainforest, with a potential value of

$3 billion to $4 billion to a private pharmaceutical

company and

as

much

As corporations rush to patent indigenous

medicinal knowledge, the originating indigenous

communities receive few, if

any, benefits.

as $147 billion to society as a whole.

While the indigenous Indian shamans go about for the well-being of their tribe, the

tested, synthesized, patented,

their daily lives caring

shaman's rainforest medicines are being

and submitted

for

FDA approval

in U.S. lab-

oratories thousands of miles away. Soon, children with viral infections,

many others throughout the world may benefit from new medicines from the Amazon rainforest. But what will the indigenous tribes see of these wonderful new medicines? As cor-

adults with herpes, cancer patients, and

porations rush to patent indigenous medicinal knowledge, the originating

indigenous communities receive few,

if

any, benefits.

LOSING THE KNOWLEDGE The destruction ural land

and natural world peoples as resources

wilderness as is

of the rainforest has followed the pattern of approaching nat-

idle,

to

be used, and seeing

empty, and unproductive. Destruction of our rainforests

not only causing the extinction of plant and animal species,

out indigenous peoples

who

live in the rainforest.

it is

also

wiping

Obviously, rainforests are

not idle land, nor are they uninhabited. Indigenous peoples have developed

technologies and resource systems that have allowed them to live on the land, farming, hunting,

with

the forest.

But

In 1500, there

and gathering

when

in a

do the indigenous peoples.

were an estimated 6 million

were drawn to comprehension and

Brazil's

artifacts

When

to 9 million

indigenous peo-

Western and European cul-

hopes of finding riches beyond from civilizations that have expired with the

Amazon

Arawete woman and child

rainforests die, so

ple inhabiting the rainforests in Brazil. tures

complex sustainable relationship

in the

—their tribe uses

annatto to paint their bodies and color clothing.

The Healing Power of

30

passage of time, they

left

behind decimated cultures

wake. By 1900, there were only

Amazon. Although

many

1

Rainforest Herbs

in their

million indigenous people

ravenous

left in Brazil's

was never discovered, away by the more success-

the fabled Fountain of Youth

and gems were spirited ful invaders of the day, and the indigenous inhabitants of the rainforest bore the brunt of these marauding explorers and conquistadors. Today there are fewer than 250,000 indigenous people of Brazil surviving this catastrophe, and still the destruction continues. These surviving indigenous people demonstrate the remarkable diversity of the rainforest because they comprise 215 ethnic groups with 170 different languages. Nationwide, they live in 526 territories, which together compose an area of 190 million acres twice the size of California. About 188 miltreasures in gold

.

lion acres of this land

is

.

.

Amazon,

inside the Brazilian

in the states of Acre,

Amapa, Amazonas, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Para, Rondonia, Roraima, and Tocantins. There may also be fifty or more indigenous groups still living in the depths of the rainforest that have never had contact with the

outside world.

to

Throughout the rainforest, people whose age-old traditions allow them live in and off the forest without destroying it are losing out to cattle

ranching, logging, hydroelectric projects, large-scale farms, mining, and colonization schemes.

About

half of the original

Amazonian

tribes

have

already been completely destroyed. The greatest threat to Brazil's remaining tribal people, most of

whom live in

Amazon

the

rainforest,

is

the inva-

sion of their territory by ranchers, miners,

The

greatest threat to

Brazil’s

remaining

people, most of live in

rainforest,

the

is

and land speculators and the conflicts that follow. Thousands of peasants, rubber tappers, and indigenous tribes have been killed in Amazonia in the past decade in violent conflicts over forest resources and land. As their homelands continue to be invaded and destroyed, rainforest people and their cultures are disappearing. When these indigenous peoples

tribal

whom

Amazon

the invasion

of their territory by ranchers, miners, and land speculators.

are lost forever,

gone too

centuries of accumulated

animal species

will

be

knowledge

in the rainforest.

knowledge representing medicinal value of plant and

their practical

of the

Very few

complete ethnobotanical analysis of

tribes

their plant

have been subjected

to a

knowledge, and most med-

men and shamans remaining in the rainforests today are seventy years or more. When a medicine man dies without passing his arts on to

icine

old

the next generation, the tribe

and the world

lose

thousands of years of

irre-

placeable knowledge about medicinal plants. Each time a rainforest medicine

man

dies,

it is

as

if

a library has

burned down.

Rainforest Destruction and Survival

THE SOLUTION: PROFITS WITHOUT PLUNDER The problem and the solution of the destruction of the rainforest are both economic. Governments need money to service their debts, squatters and settlers need money to feed their families, and companies need to make profits. The simple fact is that the rainforest is being destroyed for the income and profits it yields, however fleeting. Money still makes the world go round even in South America and even in the rainforest. But this also means that if landowners, governments, and those living in the rainforest today were given a viable economic reason not to destroy the rainforest, it could and would be saved. And this viable economic alternative does exist, and it is working today. Many organizations have demonstrated that if the medicinal plants, fruits, nuts, oils, and other resources like rubber, chocolate, and chicle (used to make chewing gums) are harvested sustainably, rainforest land has much more economic value today and more long-term income and profits for the future than if just timber is harvested or burned

—

down

for cattle or

farming operations.

In fact, the latest statistics tle

prove that rainforest land converted

operations yields the landowner $60 per acre;

if

timber

is

to cat-

harvested, the

worth $400 per acre. However, if medicinal plants, fruits, nuts, rubber, chocolate, and other renewable and sustainable resources are harvested, the land will yield the landowner $2,400 per acre. This value provides land

is

an income not only today, but year tainable resources

This

is

after year, for generations.

These sus-

— not the trees—are the true wealth of the rainforest.

no longer

a theory.

It is

a fact,

and

it

is

being implemented today.

Just as important, to wild-harvest the wealth of sustainable rainforest

resources effectively, local people and indigenous tribes must be employed.

Today, entire communities and tribes earn five to ten times more wild-harvesting medicinal plants,

by chopping down the

fruits, nuts,

and

oils

money

in

than they can earn

forest for subsistence crops. This

much-needed

income source creates the awareness and economic incentive for this population in the rainforest to protect and preserve the forests for long-term profits for themselves and their children, and is an important solution in saving the rainforest from destruction.

When

the timber

is

harvested for short-term gain and profits, the

and other important sustainable resources that thrive in this delicate ecosystem are destroyed. The real solution to saving the rainforest is to make its inhabitants see the forest and the trees by cremedicinal plants, nuts,

ating a

oils,

consumer demand and consumer markets

for these sustainable

The Healing Power of

32

rainforest products ical

elders gathering

will give

profits, rather is

than short-term gain.

the only solution that

makes

Each and every person

a real impact,

in the

and

it

can

make

United States can take part

a in

consumer market and demand for sustainable rainforest products. By purchasing renewable and sustainable rainforest products and resources and demanding sustainable harvesting tribes of the of these resources using ^ ^ local communities and indigenous rainforests, we all can be part of the solution, and the rainforests of the j and their people can u be saved. i

roots and plants.

companies do, markets that

term

this solution

Tribs-I Indi3.n

in their pockets

the economic incentive to protect their sustainable resources for long-

real difference.

,

coffers as the timber

much money

them

This

.

—markets that are larger and louder than today's trop-

timber market, markets that will put as

and government

Rainforest Herbs

i

i

by helping

•

i

to create this

PART

ONE

Rainforest Herbal Primer here are currently more than one hundred substances derived from

and active plants can have widespread effects when consumed, it people understand the differences and similarities

plants in use as drugs throughout the world. Since drugs

chemicals in is

important that

between drugs and medicinal

plants. Part

One: Rainforest Herbal Primer

discusses the use of herbs in health care, pointing out the differences and similarities

between drugs and medicinal plants and the need

be well informed about the herbs they use (Chapter

2).

about methods for preparing herbal remedies (Chapter rainforest remedies

and recipes (Chapter

3)

for users to

Basic information

and

details

4) are also discussed.

about

'lift'..

CHAPTER 2

and of Drugs

Differences Similarities

AND Medicinal Plants ^ oday,

there are at least 120 distinct chemical substances derived from

plants that are considered important drugs in

one or more countries

in the world.

and are currently

Some

in

use

of these drugs are sim-

ply a chemical or chemicals extracted from plant materials and put into a capsule, tablet, or liquid.

One such example

is

the plant chemical called

which occurs naturally in the common artichoke plant. In Germany, a cynarin drug is manufactured and sold to treat hypertension, liver disorders, and high cholesterol levels. The drug is simply this single chemical, or an artichoke liquid extract, that has been concentrated and chemicynarin,

cally

manipulated

to contain a specific

a preparation is called a

amount

of this

one chemical; such

standardized extract. This drug

by pharmaceutical companies and sold

in

pharmacies

in

is

manufactured

Germany with

a

doctor's prescription.

However, ural products

Some

in the

United States, artichoke extracts are available as nat-

and sold

in health

U.S. artichoke products are

amount

of cynarin, yet they can

food stores as "dietary supplements."

even standardized

still

to contain a specific

be purchased here as a natural prod-

money than

Germany). There may be little to no difference between the cynarin drug produced in Germany and the artichoke standardized herbal supplement made in uct without a prescription (and for a lot less

the United States considering that the delivered, dose for dose.

same amount

in

of cynarin

is

being

— The Healing Power of

36

Rainforest Herbs

NEED FOR CONSUMER EDUCATION ABOUT HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS AND DRUGS While American consumers do have more access to less-expensive natural products, such as cynarin-standardized artichoke products, regulations here prohibit the manufacturers to

make any

claims as to what the prod-

good for, since they must be sold as "foods," not "medicines." Unfortunately, someone looking through the shelves in a health food store for something to help them manage their high blood pressure or high cholesterol might pass by an artichoke extract totally unaware of its status, the research about it, and its uses in Germany and other European countries. Therefore, even though American consumers may have freer access to these less-expensive natural products, they must make an effort to educate themselves about the properties and uses of these herbal substances in order to find the most appropriate natural remedy to meet ucts might treat or even be

their needs.

Many American consumers find it very frustrating

to sort

through a

lot

ambiguous information put out by natural product manufacturers who cannot legally label their goods with condition-specific information (and stop them in their tracks in the aisles at the health food store saying, 'Hey, look at me, if you have high cholesterol!'). But, there is another way to look at it. Would you rather pay the much higher price to go to the doctor for the convenience of being told what to take and then spend more money on a prescription, as in Germany? Or would you rather do a little research yourself, skip the doctor's visit (anci cost), and purchase a less-expensive of

Get prepared to

do some

research,

take responsibility for

your

own

health and

wellness, and educate

yourself about which natural remedies

and products might be helpful for you.

natural product at the health food store that the a prescription for

German

physician writes

anyway? Unfortunately, you can not have

it

both ways

not unless you find a highly knowledgeable naturopath, herbalist, or natural health practitioner

who

will just

tell

you

what to buy at the might take some research

(for free)

health food store (and finding such a practitioner

do some research, take responsibility for your own health and wellness, and educate yourself about which natural remedies and products might be helpful for you. Another well-known example of how similar a plant and drug can be effort too!).

So get prepared

(but a bit different) cal (an alkaloid)

is

was

to

quinine. For well over 100 years, the quinine chemi-

extracted from the natural bark of Cinchona trees and

sold as a prescription drug to treat malaria.

vated to try to copy this chemical in

when

the world's

main

tropical tree

American

were motithe laboratory during World War 11

farms

fell

scientists

into the

hands of the Japan-

’*1

Differences and Similarities of Drugs and Medicinal Plants

37

—

and the natural bark was in short supply during which time American troops in the tropics were dropping like flies to malaria. Scientists were able to make an exact copy of the chemical in the laboratory without using any natural bark to start with, and a synthesized drug was created. Because it was a chemical occurring in nature and not a new one, it could not be patented by any one drug company. Several pharmaceutical companies worldwide began producing and selling synthesized quinine drugs, as they still do today. While natural quinine-containing bark can be sold in the United States as a natural product, quinine drugs still require a prescription here. In many European countries, even the natural bark is regulated as a drug since it contains naturally occurring and very active quinine alkaloids that are regulated as drugs. This also means that Americans using the bark as a natural remedy should treat it with knowledge and respect due to its very powerful and active ingredient quinine, which is not without welldocumented acute toxicity and side effects. This is yet another reason American consumers need to educate themselves on the properties and actions of plants and their naturally occurring chemicals prior to using ese

—

them. (Or find a qualified professional to guide them.)

More

Not Always Better: Be Careful About Dosage Amounts is

Too many Americans today buy into the idea that herbal products and medicinal plants are like food and are more or less benign and/or safe at any dosage. This is partly a result of legal restrictions stating that these products must be sold as "food supplements" in the United States. Also at play is that old American philosophy of excess: "if some is good, more is better." This idea is also somewhat prevalent in the food and dietary supplements market. While plements,

it

is

this

may

be true for some foods and dietary sup-

certainly not true for

many

of the biologically active

medicinal plants that are sold here as herbal supplements. for

many

It is

also not true

of the rainforest plants discussed in this book.

Traditional dosage

amounts

for herbal

remedies have been included

the plant information provided in Part Three of this

book

in

for a reason.

These dosage amounts are based on the long history of the plant's use and should be followed within reason. They have been calculated for an average-weight adult person of 120 to 150 pounds and should be generally adjusted

up

or

down

based on body weight. Take

less

if

you weigh under

Consumers need to understand that

medicinal plants have active plant chemicals

which may have therapeutic actions

but also have side effects

and

toxicity

at high dosages.

—

The Healing Power of

38

Rainforest Herbs

you weigh more than 150 pounds (up to double the recommended dosage if you weigh 300 pounds or more). If you plan on taking more than one and one-half times the dosage that is indicated for your weight, it is best to check with a qualified herbalist, naturopath, or physician who has experience with the particular plant you are choosing 120 pounds, and more

if

to take at higher dosages. % N

Possible Contraindications and Interactions Another good reason plant before taking

Coumahn

is

a very

active plant chemical

found is

in

many plants

that

almost identical to a

widely sold prescription

blood thinning drug.

An

there

is

it is

example of

excellent

coumarin

more about an herbal product or medicinal possible contraindications and drug interactions.

to learn

—found

in

this possible

many

plants

problem

is

a very active chemical

and herbal supplements. Unfortunately,

not enough consumer awareness of this potential interaction yet.

Coumarin is a natural plant chemical found in many species of plants in varying amounts from trace amounts to highly significant amounts. One

—

coumarin-containing plant tain

up

is

It

can con-

coumarin was a highly

effective

the rainforest plant called guaco.

coumarin.

to 10 percent

In the 1940s, scientists discovered that

blood thinner and went into the laboratory chemical and turn

enough

it

to synthesize or

into a prescription drug.

copy the plant

They changed

the chemical

by adding a type of salt molecule to the natural plant chemical) and renamed it coumadin. Today, coumadin is the eleventh most-prescribed medication in the United States, with annual

just

sales of

to patent

it

(basically

approximately $500 million in the United States alone. Even though

the patent

on

this

blood-thinning drug ran out years ago,

it is still

produced

by just one company (a bit of a controversy) and sold in the United States under the brand name. Warfarin®. (It is manufactured by other companies in other countries and sold at a much cheaper price as coumadin or ''generic warfarin.")

The coumadin and coumarin chemicals are very

much so that ical.

similar in structure, so

they are often tested in the laboratory as being the

same chem-

When Americans began taking many types of herbal supplements over

the last decade, conventional practitioners patients to discontinue

any and

all

and surgeons began

telling their

herbal supplements prior to and

fol-

lowing surgical procedures because of the prevalence of natural coumarin in plants. Since so

many

plants contained natural coumarin (and

such an effective blood thinner), the solution was discontinue everything.

No one was

really sure

it

was

to just tell patients to

which plants contained

Differences and Similarities of Drugs and Medicinal Plants

enough coumarin

to increase the risk of bleeding

39

problems during or

after

a surgical procedure.

This example illustrates yet another reason consumers should be

knowledgeable about what type of medicinal plants and herbal products they choose to take and should obtain information and facts from practitioners before launching

especially

if

any self-treatment program with medicinal

they routinely take prescription drugs.

plants,

Someone already

tak-

ing the prescription drug Warfarin® should be informed that the blood-

thinning effects of the drug must be carefully monitored (using blood as excessive thinning of the blood

is

sometimes associated with

tests),

fatal bleed-

ing complications, including strokes and hemorrhages in the gastrointestinal tract.

More

importantly, they should be informed that taking plants

high in natural coumarin

may

increase the blood-thinning effects of the

drug and complications could be much more research dollars available to

common

likely.

As

there are not

document herb and drug

enough

interactions,

many

plants that contain natural coumarin have never been officially

studied as "blood thinners" in ate Warfarin® drugs."

No

human

studies or

warnings are

documented

officially

"to potenti-

published for

many

of

these plants.

So when an interaction between Warfarin® and some herbal product happens, who's at fault? Is it the herbal supplement manufacturer who can not legally

make a statement on

the label of guaco (or other coumarin-con-

taining plants) that the plant can thin the blood or label the product that

it

someone taking Warfarin® in the absence of proven clinical research for that particular plant? Or is it the fault of the drug company that produces Warfarin® since it didn't do research on all the possible interactions between the drug and natural plants (not a legal requirement today)? The doctor who prescribed the Warfarin® drug and didn't ask the patient what herbal supplements he or she was taking or tell the patient which ones to avoid (because the doctor didn't know either)? Or, does the fault lie with the consumer who begins taking herbal supplements without knowing what natural chemicals the supplement contains and fails to is

contraindicated in

check with his or her doctor over by

trial

first?

This will probably be a question fought

lawyers for years to come, but

it

will ultimately

be the con-

sumer who always pays the price. Consumers are the ones experiencing the side effects and health problems, and they ultimately pay the price for litigation through higher insurance and product liability rates. This is also the reason why so many conventional doctors refuse to advdse their patients about herbal supple-

Consumers need to take extra care

when supplementing with medicinal plants if

they routinely take

prescription drugs.

The Healing Power of

40

Rainforest Herbs

and many just discourage their use altogether. They simply don't know enough about them, don't have the time to educate themselves properly, and don't want to be in the legal-liability loop for any negative side effect or drug interaction with the drugs they do prescribe and the many herbal supplements available to patients today. merits

For these reasons, in Part Three, information about contraindications

and drug

interaction

is

provided for each plant;

this

information may, or

may not, be officially substantiated by human clinical research. The guaco plant is still a great example. No one has funded any human clinical research to prove that the plant can thin the blood, or that

it

will potenti-

coumadin drugs, but it has regularly been tested and found to contain highly significant amounts of coumarin. Programs in Brazil are even underway to extract the natural coumarin from this particular plant for the manufacture of Brazilian-made coumadin drugs. Therefore, warnings about contraindications and possible drug interactions with Warfarin® and other coumadin drugs have been provided in ate Warfarin® or

the guaco plant data (and for other rainforest plants that contain natural

coumarin)

in Part Three,

based solely on the chemical contents of the

While many nonprofessionals may just skim over the chemical information that has been provided for each plant, the information has been recorded and provided to help explain not only why a plant might have a specific biological activity, but also to help you and your healthplant.

care provider

drug

—determine

—

if

there

may

be possible contraindications or

interactions.

In fact,

much of the data provided

in this

book on contraindications and

drug interactions are based on the plants' chemistry or traditional uses in herbal medicine, rather than on funded human clinical studies proving a

drug interaction or

a

medical contraindication.

Human

studies of this

nature are very expensive and just aren't performed on most medicinal plants anywhere. There are too

enough money

to

the data that

provided

is

sive or complete.

study

It's

all

many

plants, too

drugs, and not

the possible interactions. This also

in this

means

book should not be considered

important to note that

much

medicinal uses of the plants discussed in this book tropical Third

many

that

all-inclu-

of the history of the is

mainly recorded

in

World countries where the plants grow. The populations of

people using plant-based herbal remedies don't regularly take the amount or types of prescription drugs Americans do, and the history of side effects or contraindications

when combining

virtually nonexistent.

If

the plants with the drugs

we

use

is

you are taking prescription drugs, please always

Differences and

Sinnilarities

of Drugs and Medicinal Plants

4

check with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements or medicinal plants, including those

you

learn about in this book.

NEED FOR CARE IN SELF-MEDICATING WITH HERBAL PRODUCTS This brings us to yet another

common and growing problem

been termed the "self-medicating herbal product industry" States.

What about the person who is tired

in

what has

in the

United

of paying the high price for

War-

pharmacy and wants to try a plant like guaco to replace it? The majority of patients making up the $500 million-a-year market for this particular drug is over 60 years old and lives on a fixed income, so ideas such farin® at the

as this are not so

uncommon.

with problems, especially in

Unfortunately, this practice

this particular instance.

is

also fraught

Warfarin® should be

taken in very specific dosages, which have been tested to be effective and safe for each patient (dosages can vary

from patient

to patient)

and an

indi-

vidual patient's needs can change over time as his or her medical condition

improves or deteriorates. Taking too much or too

results.

Regular blood

tests are

little

can have drastic

administered to ensure the dosage

is

cor-

and continues to be correct for each patient. The coumarin content in guaco (and any plant) can change and fluctuate due to where it was grown, how and when it was harvested, climate changes in the growing environment/season, and other natural phenomena. The coumarin content can be 10 percent in one harvest of guaco plants, and as low as 5 percent the following year, even when the same plants are harvested again only a year later. So, in this case, it just would not be a good idea to try to replace the drug with an herbal supplement. Even if one rect

found a "standardized" herbal guaco supplement with a guaranteed potency or content of coumarin, it should only be used under a doctor's supervision, in order to establish the correct

dosage

for the particular patient

would require the doctor's ongoing supervision and periodic testing. In most instances, ideally, conventional medicine and traditional medicine should play complementary roles in (with an obvious medical need) and

health care, and one should not replace the other.

PROBLEM OF ONE VS SEVERAL CHEMICALS While many drugs have originated from biologically active plant chemi-

and many plants' medicinal uses can be attributed to various active chemicals found in them, there is a distinct difference between using a

cals,

Since chemical contents in

plants can vary,

it is

difficult

to determine

the potency of an herbal supplement.

The Healing Power of

42

medicinal plant and a chemical drug. The difference

is

Rainforest Herbs

one that scares most

conventionally trained doctors with no training in plants. Drugs usually consist of a single chemical, Ideally,

conventional

medicine and traditional

medicine should play

complementary

roles

health care, and

in

one

should not replace the other.

more chemicals.

It's

whereas medicinal plants can contain 400 or

relatively easy to figure out the activity

and side

effects

no way scientists can map all the complex interactions and synergies that might be taking place between all the various chemicals found in a plant, or a traditionally prepared crude plant extract, containing all these chemicals. It is not unusual for a plant to contain a single documented cancer-causing chemical and also maybe five other chemicals that are anticancerous and which may counteract the one "bad" chemical. Overall, the plant extract may even provide some type of

of a single chemical, but there

anticancerous In

some

is

just

effect.

instances, a particular plant chemical's activity

when

is

enhanced or

combined with another chemical or chemicals that occur naturally in the plant. An example of this is the rainforest plant cat's claw. First, the crude extract of cat's claw was shown to boost immune function. Then, specific alkaloid chemicals in the plant were scientifically documented (and patented) to be the "active constituents" that provided this effect. However, scientists discovered much later that if they extracted just the alkaloids, these alkaloids were less potent at stimulating immune cells than they were when combined with other chemicals (called catechin tannins) that the plant contains. Adding the tannin chemicals to the alkaloids increased the immune-stimulating effect of the alkaloids by almost 40 percent. In this instance, a drug made using only the alkaloids would probaincreased

it

is

bly be less effective than a crude extract of the plant that contained both

and tannins. The drug industry often misses the boat

alkaloids

However, their motivations are different. Crude plant extracts cannot be patented or approved as drugs. The drug researcher's goal is to come up with a single chemical with good biological activity one that can be changed in in this regard.

—

some way (without

losing activity) so that

it

can be patented as a novel

chemical and then be synthetically manufactured into a

new

patented

drug. Sometimes the isolated chemical might not be quite as effective as the crude extract in

which

more

it

was found, but

the researchers have the abil-

by increasing the dosage of the single chemical. Sometimes, they can even improve on the activity of the plant chemical by modifying it in some way, which also makes it patentable. Even if patents were not an issue, the drug company still would not be able to provide enough scientific ciata on how so ity to deliver

of the chemical therapeutically

Differences and Similarities of Drugs and Medicinal Plants

many in

naturally occurring plant chemicals

combination with one another,

to get a

work

43

individually,

much

less

crude plant extract approved as

drug under our current drug regulations.

a

ple gle

The quinine tree and its quinine alkaloid are again a wonderful examof some of the limitations in this regard. Scientists selected just one sinalkaloid from the crude bark extract, the chemical that evidenced the

highest antimalarial ally

had

effect, to

turn into a drug. But the crude extract actu-

unique chemicals which were individually found

at least fifteen

be antimalarial. The crude extract also contained other chemicals that

to

had

reduced fever (one of the main symptoms of

a different activity: they

malaria). Yet even other chemicals

were found

Crude

plant extracts

and medicinal plants cannot be patented or

approved

Under

as drugs.

U.S. laws these

natural plants cannot

be marketed as a treatment or remedy

to

be effective regulators of for any disease or

the heart and could be used to treat arrhythmia. (Sometimes very high

No wonder

fevers cause irregular heartbeat or increase the heart rate.)

crude bark extract was used for hundreds, indigenous people to

treat malaria.

and

it

in the

meantime,

treated the

It

if

condition either.

the

not thousands, of years by the

killed the

symptoms

bug

that caused the disease,

the disease

was

causing! But

similar to the guaco vine, the content of the active chemicals in the quinine tree

main antimalarial a

doctor

to

Some

can fluctuate.

know

if

alkaloids, while others

a

from extract

have up

1

percent of the

to 7 percent.

How would

crude extract contained enough of these main chemicals

be therapeutic or

ied

species of quinine trees can have

how to prescribe proper dosages if these chemicals var-

to extract?

For years, this alone has justified the use of the

synthesized drug over the natural crude bark extract.

POSSIBLE ANSWER TO

DRUG RESISTANCE

happened with the quinine tree, the c]uinine drug, and malaria, however. Since we've used this single synthesized

Something

really interesting has

drug against malaria

for so

Plas7uodiuni protozoa) has it.

Today,

we have

resistant to

mutated

years, the malaria-causing to create a defense

(WHO)

.

.

(a

several different strains of malaria that are completely

back to the crude

is

organism

mechanism against

our time-honored synthetic quinine drug. Back

board? Nope. zation

many

now

extract!

to the

drawing

Even the World Health Organi-

revisiting the idea of going

back

to treating malaria

Third World countries with quinine bark extracts. Preliminary test-tube and animal studies indicate that natural bark extracts can effectively treat in

the

new

antimalarial chemicals in the is

Remember those other fourteen crude bark extract? Do we know which one

drug-resistant strains of malaria.

doing the

trick

—or does

it

matter?

The Healing Power of

44

Many

organisms have

developed resistance to our mainstream single chemical drugs

and

Another very interesting concept

disease-causing

scientists are

now

looking at the value of multi-chemical natural plant extracts.

is

that

many

Rainforest Herbs

disease-causing organ-

isms can easily adapt and mutate to become resistant to a single chemical,

would be much harder and take much more time for the organisms to create a defense mechanism against fifteen different chemicals simultaneously. Even more interesting: will throwing fifteen different active chemicals against the disease simultaneously speed up the treatment process? Only time will tell, and only if we somehow come up with the money to fund expensive large-scale human studies on unpatentable crude extracts. The pharmaceutical companies can't justify spending these research dollars on a crude plant-based medicine they cannot patent or sell. In this particular case, the WHO and/or large government public health agencies are more likely candidates to come up with the needed research dollars. Worldwide, more than one million people still die every year from malaria, and, unfortunately, this trend is likely to increase as more resistance to our main

but

it

synthetic quinine drug develops.

The organism causing malaria is not the only evolving disease-causing bug we need to worry about. Bacteria can readily develop defense mechanisms against antibacterial drugs and become drug resistant. Many already have. The common staph bacteria {Staphylococcus) has gone through so many mutations over the last thirty years that many different strains have evolved that are

now

completely resistant

drugs that were once effective against

it.

major antibiotic

to the eight

Could plants again hold the

answer? Very possibly!

SHOTGUN APPROACH, NOT SINGLE BULLET? A few years back, scientists evaluated a jungle shaman's dy."

It

was

a crude plant extract that contained seven plants.

must remember, dysentery An

indigenous healer

usually selects four to

seven plants to combine into a

remedy

instead

of just one. This usually

if

in the

Amazon

can be attributed to

ber of different bacteria, amebas, and parasites

commonly shared samples

common

Now, one any num-

in the area (and

communal living environments of indigeshaman doesn't have the ability to send blood or

in the close

nous groups). The Indian stool

"dysentery reme-

to a laboratory to find

out which specific organism

ing the dysentery in his village, but he

Maybe

must

why

still

is

caus-

select the appropriate

shaman usually

means hundreds,

plants to treat his patients.

not thousands of

handful of plants (about four to seven) to brew into a remedy, instead of

different chemicals are

contained

in his

crude

plant extract.

this is

a

selects a

just one.

When

the seven different plants in the dysentery

lyzed, at least twelve different

remedy were ana-

known antibiotic chemicals, five anti-amebic

Differences and Similarities of Drugs and Medicinal Plants

45

chemicals, and seven antiparasitic chemicals were found between plants in the shaman's formula.

were found

in the extract

ways

The twelve

the

all

different antibiotic chemicals

to kill bacteria in at least five different

ways; these

pathways of action. The shaman didn't really need to know which "bad bug" was the culprit, in what mainstream medicine would call his "shotgun" are called biological

approach. But does this really matter either? This particular

remedy, containing a

total of several

thousand individual plant

chemicals, had at least thirty-one active chemicals that hit the

top ten or so main bugs that might cause dysentery. (And, yes,

you'd think your doctor was completely nuts

home with

thirty-one prescriptions, so

if

he sent you

maybe "shotgun"

is

an

appropriate analogy within your doctor's limitations.)

But

let's

go back

to the interesting

concept mentioned ear-

bug was an easily-mutating bacteria would it be that this one organism could

lier. If

the dysentery

like

staph,

how

sur-

likely

vive long enough to create a defense against twelve different antibacterial chemicals

coming

ways simultaneously? These are certainly more prevalent single-chemical antibiotics

at

in at least five different

it

drug-resistant strains of bacteria

which are regularly employed than in poor in First

World nations

in

countries in which mainly plant-based remedies are used. a

tropical

Maybe it will

take

broadly scattering shotgun to fight these tricky and quickly mutating

Shaman

Jose Cabberrea,

age 87, on his way out to gather medicinal plants.

organisms, instead of a single chemical bullet. Food for thought, for sure!

As more

of our gold-standard single-bullet drugs

become

less effective

against newly developing strains of drug-resistant bacteria, viruses, fungi,

and

parasites,

we

will

probably see more interest and research on medici-

nal plants, herb-based drugs,

and

the world are, and will continue to be, of great

main areas where

The rainforests of importance and one of the

traditional remedies.

this research will likely take place. Rainforests

hold the

number of novel chemicals on the planet. more species of plants and animals, and yes,

highest biodiversity and sheer

Acre for

acre, they contain

even bacteria, mold, fungi, and virus species than anywhere

else

on

earth.

Rainforest plants contain

so

many potent and

active chemicals since the

PLANT'S SURVIVAL INSTINCTS HELPING HUMANKIND It's

also very important to note that

instincts.

It is

all

living things

literally part of the cellular

highly mobile species like

humans and

makeup

of

plants are

in

battle for survival in an

have inbred survival

environment

species on earth. In

teeming with

all

other animals, the main survival

a constant

literally life

that

constantly evolving.

is

—

46

The Healing Power of

Rainforest

Herbs

and mechanism is ''flee, fight, or hide." Even bacteria and virus species have learned to flee or hide from immune cells and chemical agents attacking them, as well as to fight them by mutating or changing their own physical structure to defend against them. With stationary plants rooted to the ground and incapable of physically fleeing from danger, their survival instinct is controlled by wonderfully complex and rich chemical defense mechanisms that have evolved over eons. Plants have either created a defense mechanism against what might harm them, or they have succumbed and become extinct. instinct

many

In the species-rich rainforest, there are fungi, mold, bacteria, viruses, parasites,

and so

kill plants. It is

many

of

is

wonder

that rainforest plants contain

an environment

constantly evolving.

From

literally

life

out of huge canopy

of insects devouring

teeming with

life

soil-borne root rot (a virus) that

attacks tender herbaceous plants, to the fungi

ing the

insects that attack

potent and active chemicals: the plants are in a constant

battle for survival in

that

little

and

species of

and mold smother-

trees, or to the incredible

any defenseless

number

leaf in the forest, rainforest

plants have learned to adapt, create chemical defenses against

Capuchin monkey just one example of the

Amazon’s

attack,

and survive. Within

this rich arsenal of

defensive chemicals are anti-

and insecticidal the mechanism the plants use

bacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-mold,

chemicals with tested potent actions. This

is

diversity.

to survive,

grow, and flourish as well as to fight the

organisms that attack them.

It is

many

disease-causing

likely that within these diverse

chemicals

more will be harvested and put to use protecting humans and animals from the same created to protect the plants from disease, at least a handful or

types of disease-causing organisms.

and value rainforest plants as very active potent herbal remedies and to protect them against humankind's destruction (against which the plants have no defense mechanism). Please respect them and please help to protect them. This

is

yet another reason to respect

—

CHAPTER 3

Methods of Preparing Herbal Remedies

traditional herbal medicine systems, herbal remedies are prepared j^

^^in several rather standardized

ways, which vary based on the plant

^ used and, sometimes, on what condition

is

being treated. These meth-

ods include infusions (hot teas), decoctions (boiled teas), tinctures (alcohol and water extracts), and macerations (cold-soaking), each of which is described in more detail later in this chapter. In indigenous tribal medi-

Amazon, medicine men,

cine systems in the

these

same methods

preparing plants inhalation of

in

or shamans, generally use

few others. Other methods include which the patient is soaked or bathed),

in addition to a

hot baths

(in

powdered plants

(like snuff),

steam inhalation of various

and even aromatherapy (inhaling fragrant essential oils of plants). A well-trained herbalist will always thoroughly review the time-honored method in which a plant has been tradiaromatic plants boiled

tionally prepared, since

in hot water,

it

holds important information about preparing an

effective herbal remedy.

VARIOUS METHODS FOR DIFFERENT PLANTS AND CONDITIONS The

biological or therapeutic activity of a medicinal plant

is

closely related

chemicals in the plant. These chemicals can be classified into major groups such as essential oils, alkaloids, acids, steroids, tannins, saponins, to the

and so forth. For each method of extraction

of these classes of chemicals, there

may be a

preferred

that facilitates getting the chemicals out of the plant

The Healing Power of

48

and

Rainforest Herbs

remedy being prepared. For example, some

into the herbal

active

chemicals found in plants are not soluble in water; therefore preparing a hot tea with the plant or boiling the plant in hot water won't extract these

chemicals into the resulting water extract/ tea remedy. Generally, The manner

in

which

a plant has traditionally

been

prepared

holds important

information about preparing an effective

remedy.

chemicals aren't soluble in water, they won't be broken

down

help

either. If the active

in the diges-

chemicals aren't in the prepared remedy,

they probably won't provide any of the benefits attributed to them. ever, these

same chemicals may be

the time-honored

way

the

form won't be

tive process either, so taking the plant in capsule or tablet

much

if

of preparing

soluble in alcohol,

them

as a

and

How-

for this reason,

remedy has been

a tincture,

or alcohol extract. Interestingly, this

one manner

to treat

is

one

also the reason

why some

specific condition

and

plants are prepared in

in a different

way

to treat a

completely different condition. For example, preparing an infusion /tea of a plant

might extract a delicate group of water-soluble anti-inflammatory

plant steroids to treat arthritis (and leave behind other non-water soluble chemicals). Yet

when the same plant is prepared in alcohol as a tincture, the

delicate steroids are

degraded or burned up, and antibacterial alkaloids

that are only soluble in alcohol are extracted instead. This a specific plant

may be

used as a

tea to treat arthritis

may explain why

and inflammation but

as a tincture to treat various bacterial infections.

The

shamans or rural herbal healers are not trained chemists with high-tech machines and scientific instruments at their disposal to isolate and study plant chemicals. Their knowledge about the best way to prerainforest

pare medicinal plants into effective herbal remedies has been built over

and error, human experimentation, and even serendipity passed down from generation to generation. Yet, more often than not, plant chemists and scientists generally get around to

decades of empirical knowledge from

trial

maneuvered through complex chemical differences, reactions, and interactions, and different types of chemicals "unwittingly" developing the most efficient manner to extract and utilize the biological activity of the chemicals. It is usually the shaman's knowledge that the really smart scientists start with; this gives them specific clues as to which types of chemicals might be present. verifying that these so-called "uneducated" herbal healers have

Rather than enrolling in some organic chemistry class to understand the to

book and how the traditional manner in

complex chemical makeup of the plants discussed

prepare or use them, simply pay attention to

in this

which they have been prepared. Information about how each plant is concocted when it is used for various conditions and remedies is provided in

Methods of Preparing Herbal Remedies

Part Three of this book. a tea to treat

there

is

If

49

the information states that a plant

one condition but as a tincture

probably a reason for

to treat

is

prepared as

something

different,

it.

CHOOSING PRODUCTS Many

of the plants discussed in this

book

are available in the retail market

raw form and/or in manufactured products as capsules, tinctures, extracts, etc. The smart consumer should be prepared to notice whether product manufacturers have followed the traditional preparation methods because the method of preparation makes a difference in the quality of the product and in the results one can expect from use. A good example is the rainforest plant muira puama. Over the last five years, this plant has become popular in the retail market as a male aphrodisiac and libido stimin dried

ulant, following

its

long history of use in the

remedy

function and as a natural

many

Amazon

for impotency.

As

male sexual dys-

for

such,

it

is

showing up

and male sexual health-formulas sold in health food stores. The well-informed consumer would know that most of the chemicals that provide this benefit are soluble only in alcohol, and

as an ingredient in

The smart consumer should be prepared to notice

manufacturers have followed the traditional preparation methods

because the method of

libido-

preparation makes a difference in

would pass by

the products

on the

shelf that just put

sule or tablet (and there are quite a few out there!),

muira puama

and choose

a

in a cap-

prepared

alcohol tincture instead. It

is

hard to say

capitalizing

if

herbal manufacturers are uninformed or just

on the market created

for a

popular herb

when

they ignore

tra-

Many herbal companies use only one extracproduct in their line, regardless of the many

ditional preparation methods.

method

tion

for

every

medicinal plants they work with and their unique chemical contents. This usually results in

some products being

effective,

while others are not,

depending on which active chemicals actually got extracted by the company's one standardized manufacturing method. Unfortunately, it is usually consumers' dollars that determine which are effective. Sadder still, the value

and

efficacy of the medicinal plants themselves are often

judged

by these poorly manufactured products. There are many men out there today who claim muira puama just didn't deliver the results (or the value for their money) because they chose some bark capsule product, when, in fact,

the plant properly prepared as an alcohol tincture

is

one of the best

natural products available today for male sexual function. So, as with

most

whether product

industries, the old saying of "let the

buyer beware"

certainly has a place in the herbal products industry. Before purchasing

in

quality

and

the results one can

expect from use.

The Healing Power of

Rainforest Herbs

manufactured herbal prociucts, do some research and pay close attention to traditional

and

methods. Capsules and tablets are certainly more convenient

easier to take,

and they don't

taste bad,

but sometimes they just won't

be as effective as a foul-tasting herbal decoction or

some

adaptations, however.

As

a general rule of

tincture.

There can be

thumb, many plants that

and cold macerations have active chemicals that are soluble in water. This means that the plant can probably be taken in a tablet or capsule form since the chemicals will be broken down and dissolved in the digestive tract. However, that preparation method will not be recorded as a "traditional" method since herbal healers in the Amazon don't have ready access to tablets and capsules, or the equipment needed to make them. There are a few exceptions, however. Generally, aromatic plants that need heat to are traditionally prepared as infusions

when

release the aromatic essential oils are inhaled

the tea

remedy

is

sipped and better absorbed in the mouth and throat. These adaptations are

noted in Chapter

7,

the plant

or preparing a remedy,

mation in

in Part

summary

it is still

PREPARING YOUR bit

remedies products.

always best

to refer to the

Three about the plant, since there

methods based on the type

While a

reference guide. But before buying

more

of

OWN

remedy wanted

may

complete infor-

be some differences

for a specific condition.

REMEDIES

trouble and time consuming,

making your own natural

much more economical than purchasing manufactured The remedies can also be much more effective when prepared

is

usually

properly by following time-honored traditional preparation methods.

The

first

step

plant materials

America

is

finding a good source for the

raw plant

materials.

coming from the Amazon region and other parts

will only

Most

of South

be available in a dried state in either a cut herb or ground

powder form. Find

a reputable supplier

who

exports regularly from the

region and please ask questions about their harvesting practices.

Many South

American plants are harvested unsustainably, causing more rainforest destruction, rather than helping to preserve it. Again, do the research required to find a good supplier, ask questions, and make sure you are obtaining the and one that has been sustainably harvested. If you don't plan on using the plant immediately, it is best to keep it unopened, in its original packaging, and away from direct sunlight (just put it in a closed cupboard /cabinet). Many plants will absorb moisture and humidity from the air, so if they are opened, reseal them tightly, or put correct species of plant,

Methods of Preparing Herbal Kennedies

them

51

Most keep them at

into a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (avoid metal containers).

plant materials

do not require

refrigeration or freezing; just

average room temperature (70° to 80° stored properly, the shelf

life

for

F).

Generally,

optimum

if

the plant material

is

freshness will be

about a year for dried leaves, or two years for dried barks and roots.

If

you

warm, high-humidity

live in a

area,

it

may

be

impossible to keep moisture out of regularly opened and closed

and the plants may become moldy. If this happens, discard them and purchase fresh ones. Next time, store them in paper lunch bags so they can "breathe" (although this glass containers,

will

reduce the shelf It is

life significantly).

not always necessary to find a tea-cut plant to prepare a

ground powders can be used to make teas, tinctures, and decoctions just as well. A finely ground plant usually makes a stronger remedy, as more surface area of the plant is available to tea;

extract in the liquid. Extra time filtering

when working with

plant powders, but

is

normally required

many

herbalists prefer

working with powders instead of bulky cut herbs, since they make stronger extracts. It is also recommended that you use distilled

or purified water

when

extracting medicinal plants. Regular tap water

can contain chlorine and other chemicals that might have an interaction or chain reaction with one or more of the

many

Local market in Iquitos,

Peru

selling cat’s claw.

chemicals found in plants.

main preparation methods used throughout this the reference guides and in the main plant section are detailed

Instructions for the

book

in

below.

Infusions Infusions are typically used for delicate herbs, leaves, and fresh tender plants. Preparing

brought

just to a boil

is

much

like

making

a

and then poured over an herb

cup of (or

tea.

Water

is

combination of

Do

the research required

so.

to find a

good

infusion can be prepared in a drinking cup (by just pouring the heated

supplier.

Ask questions

herbs), covered,

An

an infusion

and allowed

water over the herb

in the

to sit/steep for ten to fifteen

cup) or by dropping the herb into the pot

stores; these

an

an infusion

iron.

If

bags can be is

use a ceramic pot with a

prepared lid

in the

tea

heating pan or pot,

it

is

best to

(avoid metal pots). Stir the preparation a few

times while steeping, especially infusion covered.

filled

in

bags are even available at with herbs and then sealed with

which the water was heated. Empty gauze

some herb

minutes or

if

you are using cut herbs, and keep the

herbal

and make sure you are obtaining the correct species of plant, and

one

that has

been

sustainably harvested.

The Healing Power of

52

The

Rainforest Herbs

herb to water varies depending on the remedy, the plant,

ratio of

and whether cut herb or powdered herb is used. Generally using 1 teaspoon of powdered herb or 2 teaspoons of more bulky cut herb in a 6-to-8ounce cup of water is sufficient. If you are using a powdered herb, stir once halfway through the steeping time and let the powder settle to the bottom An

herbal infusion

much

like

a

is

preparing

cup of

tea.

of the cup. Then, drink the infusion off the top (leaving the sediment in the

bottom of the cup).

If

you

are using a cut herb, strain the infusion with a

tea strainer after steeping.

An infusion is best prepared as needed and taken the same day it is prepared.

It

can be taken hot, warm, or cold. Standard dosages of infusions

are generally

1

teacup (6-8 ounces), two or three times

daily.

The

entire

day's dosage can be prepared in the morning (2-3 cups at one time), and the remainder refrigerated until ready to use.

aromatic plants with active essential

oils;

The exceptions are the more

these are best prepared in single

dosages (by the cupful) as needed and taken immediately while

still

hot /warm.

Decoctions Decoctions are usually the method of choice

and more fibrous cals. is

plants, barks,

and roots

when working with tougher

that

have water-soluble chemi-

Instead of just steeping the plant part in hot water, the plant material

boiled for a longer period of time to soften the harder

and allow it to release its active constituents. To prepare a decoction, select a ceramic pot with Measure the amount of herb needed usually the same

—

woody

material

a snug-fitting lid. ratio of

1

teaspoon

—

powdered herb or 2 teaspoons of cut herb per 8 ounces of water into the pot and add the proper amount of cold water, ciepending on how many cups of the decoction you wish to prepare. Turn the heat to medium high and bring to a rolling boil. Place the lid on the pot and reduce the heat to medium or medium-low so that the mixture stays at a good simmer. Simmer it and keep covered for twenty minutes. If you can see steam escaping or smell the aroma of the herb, your lid is not tight enough and valuable essential oils are escaping.

After twenty minutes, If

you are using cut herbs,

teacup.

When

straining,

strainer to get as

are using

much

powdered

remove

the pot from the heat

strain the mixture

make

and cool

slightly.

through a tea strainer into a

sure to press on the cut herb pieces in the

liquid /decoction out of the herb as possible.

herb, allow the

powder

to settle to the

If

you

bottom of the

Methods of Preparing Herbal Remedies

53

pot and then pour off the decoction from the top into a teacup (any sedi-

ment missed

will settle to the

bottom of the teacup).

Standard dosages for decoction are generally V2 to 1 cup, two or three times daily. Again, the entire day's dosage can be prepared in the morning (2-3 cups at one time),

and the remainder refrigerated

until

ready

to

use

later in the day.

Strong Decoctions

Depending on the type of plant material used, strong decoctions are prepared in two general ways. The first involves boiling the mixture longer. This is usually indicated when working with larger woody pieces of bark. Longer boiling time, up to two hours or more, is sometimes necessary to break down, soften, and extract the chemicals from the larger pieces. When smaller woody pieces are used but yet a stronger remedy is wanted, the decoction is prepared as above (boiling twenty minutes) and then allowed to sit /soak overnight before the

make

herb

is

strained out.

When straining, again

sure to press on the cut herb pieces in the strainer to get as

much

moisture/decoction out of the herb pieces as possible.

Tinctures

A

tincture

is

an alcohol and water extract that

is

used when plants have

prepared for

and/or when a larger convenience and wanted for longer-

Many properly prepared

plant tinctures can last several years

active chemicals that are not very soluble in water

quantity of the

term storage.

remedy

is

The percentage of alcohol usually helps determine the tincture's shelf life: the more alcohol used, the longer the shelf life. Sometimes the percentage of alcohol and water is unique to the herbs that are used, as some active ingredients are more soluble in alcohol and others more soluble in water. The type of alcohol can vary vodka, or

more without

losing potency.

—

rum, or 90-

to 180-proof grain alcohol that

is

sold as "everclear" in liquor

sometimes cheaper than vodka. Vodka is fine, but remember if it says 40 proof, it is 20 percent alcohol and the rest is water. In the Amazon, a sugar-cane alcohol resembling rum and called aguardiente is often

stores

and

is

40 percent to 50 percent alcohol. To prepare a tincture with a shelf life of at least one year, plan on using a minimum of 40 percent alcohol and the balance distilled water, unless otherwise noted in the plant information in Part Three. Use a clean glass

used

to

prepare plant tinctures;

it is

bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid or cork.

Use

a dark-colored bottle (like

When

a plant

prepared it is

in

is

alcohol,

called a tincture.

The Healing Power of

54

Rainforest Herbs

wine bottle) or plan on storing the bottle out of the working with dried plants, use 2 ounces of plant material

a recycled green/ amber

sunlight.

When

powder) for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of liquid. Since many cut herbs can be bulky, measure the amount of cut herb by weight and not volume (most cooks would tell you 2 tablespoons of butter is 1 ounce; however, a lightweight bulky leaf is not as heavy as butter in the same volume or by the tablespoon). A ''standard 4:1 tincture" usually means 1 part herb to 4 parts liquid (or as above, 1 ounce herb to 4 ounces of liquid). To prepare approximately 1 cup of tincture (some of the liquid will be absorbed by the dry plant material), place 2 ounces of the herb (cut up or powdered) into your clean glass container. Pour V2 cup (4 ounces) of distilled water and V2 cup (4 ounces) of 90-proof alcohol into the container (or just use 1 cup of straight 40-proof vodka and no water). Seal the container and store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Shake the bottle/jar at least once daily. Allow the tincture to soak/ extract for at least two weeks (larger woody cut herb pieces may need to soak for four weeks). At the end of two weeks, filter the tincture through a strainer to remove the plant parts (pressing hard on the plant material to get as much liquid out as possible) and pour into a fresh clean glass container and seal. Some people like to pour it through cheesecloth and then use the cheesecloth to more easily wring out the liquid from the plant material. If using a powdered plant for the tincture, stop shaking for three days and the powder will settle to the bottom. Pour the tincture off the top through a piece of cheese(cut or

Virtually

any type of

alcohol can be used to

prepare a tincture.

cloth to filter

it.

method uses

and helps concentrate the chemicals through the use of alcohol, dosages needed for tinctures are usually much less than those for infusions and decoctions. Average dosages for tinctures are about 1-2 milliliters (about 30 to 60 drops) two to three times daily. The tincture can be placed directly in the mouth for immediate absorption, or it can be placed in a small amount of water or juice. If you dislike the alcohol content (or want to give the remedy to a child), place the dosage in about 1-2 ounces of very hot water and most of the alcohol will evaporate in the hot water in a minute or two. (Let cool before taking.) Store the tincture at room temperature and away from Since this

a higher ratio of plant to liquid

direct sunlight.

Macerations This method of preparation material

is

simply covered

is

certainly the easiest.

in cool

The

fresh or dried plant

water and soaked overnight. The herb

is

Methods of Preparing Herbal Remedies

55

and the liquid is taken. Normally this is used for very tender plants and/or fresh plants or those with delicate chemicals that might be harmed by heating, or which might be degraded in strong alcohol. This is also the easiest method to adapt to Western methods, since tablets or capsules can be used instead. Alternatively, just stir the ground plant powder into juice, water, or smoothies and drink.

strained out

Macerations are prepared

when

the plant chemicals

are sensitive to heat or easily extracted in water.

Poultices

Many

and Compresses

herbal remedies are applied directly to the skin as poultices, usual-

on rashes and wounds and as topical pain-relieving remedies. Poultices are prepared in various ways from the jungle shaman chewing up fresh leaves or roots and spitting them out onto the skin, to mashing up fresh leaves or roots by hand or with a mortar and pestle. Sometimes just enough hot water is poured over dried or fresh plant material to soften them. Then, the wet herbs are placed directly on the skin or between two pieces of cloth and laid on the skin. A light cotton bandage to bind the poultice to the area ly

—

is

generally used. (Or in the jungle, a nice large flexible leaf

employed and

tied

with a

is

commonly

bit of twine.)

To make a compress, simply soak a cloth

in a

prepared infusion,

tinc-

and place the cloth onto the affected part of the body/ skin. Since most American readers of this book will only have access to dried plant materials to work with, using compresses instead of poulture, or decoction

tices will suffice for

More

many

of the described indigenous poultice remedies.

and directions are found in Part Three under 'Traditional Preparation" where it might say to apply an infusion or decocspecific adaptations

tion topically.

Baths and Bathing Remedies Quite a few popular jungle remedies that have been used for thousands of years in the Amazon are prepared as vapor baths in which medicinal plants are

added

to

bath water and the patient

is

soaked

in

it.

This method

dermal delivery systems being employed in conventional medicine for drug absorption. The skin is a wonderful organ capable of absorbing chemicals directly and into the is

not unlike

some

of the currently evolving

underlying fat tissue, and then into the bloodstream. Since fresh plants are generally used for bathing remedies (chopped or crushed first before bath water), modifications are not always possible when only dried plant materials are available, as in most of the Western world.

adding

to the

The

Indian’s bathing

remedies are not unlike

more complex

skin-

delivery systems

employed with some dermal patch drugs.

The Healing Power of

56

An

adding 20 to 30 ounces of a strong decoction the bath water and having the patient soak in it for at least

alternative approach

or infusion to

Rainforest Herbs

is

ten minutes.

While some readers might think preparing these instructions rather daunting,

it

their

own herbal remedies using

really isn't all that difficult

once one

The most important aspect to remember is to purchase quality herbal ingredients to work with. The remedy prepared will only be as good as the herb that was used. Choose a good source to purchase from and expect to pay a little more for good quality and remember to always ask about sustainability issues such as where and how the plant was harvested. To learn more about how some of the rainforest plants featured in this book are combined into specific formulas for specific conditions, continue on to Chapter 4, where recipes are provided that utilize the preparation methods discussed in this chapter. learns the basic concepts.

—

Curanderos set up shop at local markets to dispense herbal remedies.

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CHAPTER 4

Rainforest Remedies

AND

Recipes

prepare and ^ he following natural remedies are not complicated than the prepare more or can be adjusted you want you ^ amounts shown. The quantities shown are dried

^ .

to

easily

i

less

to

if

for

^

are lucky

enough

to

be able

to obtain freshly

plants.

If

picked plants, then double the

powdered herbs can be used. The amounts shown below are for powdered herbs, which are more widely available for these plants and more easily measured in a standard manquantities given below. Either cut herbs or

ner.

If

using cut-up leaves, barks, roots,

amount shown below

(a

then generally double the

tablespoon of cut leaves can grind up to about a

depending on how coarsely or Before preparing and using any of the following

half-tablespoon or less of finely cut they are).

etc.,

powdered

herb,

recipes, please read about each herbal ingredient in Part Three.

plants

may

Some of the

be contraindicated for some people.

ALLERGY REMEDY Combine

2 tablespoons each of nettle

leaf,

amor

seco,

and gervao, and

tablespoon each of jatoba, guaco, picao preto, and carqueja into a glass

1

jar,

and mix the herbs together. When relief from seasonal allergies is needed, place a heaping teaspoon of the mixture into a coffee cup and pour 6—8 ounces of boiling water into the cup. Cover it with a saucer and let it steep for fifteen minutes, stirring once halfway and shake well

through. Let the sion

warm

to disperse

powder

settle to the

bottom of the cup and drink the

infu-

(leaving the sediment in the bottom). Repeat every six hours or

so as needed to relieve allergy symptoms.

The Healing Power of

Rainforest Herbs

ARTHRITIS REMEDY The following can be used for general arthritis pain and inflammation as and when needed. It's best prepared as a tincture. (See more instructions on preparing tinctures in Chapter 3, as needed.) The remedy can be stored for up to two years at room temperature. Combine. 2 tablespoons each of powdered chuchuhuasi, cat's claw, tayuya, iporuru, samambaia, and vassourinha, with 1 tablespoon each of nettle root, guaco, and manaca. Place powdered herb into a glass bottle or jar. Add 4 cups of 40-proof vodka (or 2 cups of 180-proof Everclear and 2 cups of distilled water). Shake well and seal or cork the container. Keep at room temperature and shake well every day for two weeks. At the end of two weeks, let the jar or bottle sit for three days without shaking. Line a tea strainer with a piece of cheesecloth and set over a large bowl. Carefully pour the tincture through the strainer, leaving most of the sediment in the bottom of the bottle. Pour the strained tincture back into a clean dark-colored bottle, seal, and store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. When you need relief from occasional arthritis pain and inflammation, take 1 or 2 teaspoons of the tincture directly by mouth or in a small amount of water or juice every

hours as needed.

six to eight

CALMING REMEDY Combine V4 cup each and mix

well. This

of damiana, passionflower, manaca,

and mulungu

combination can be prepared as a standard decoction

or as a tincture following the instructions given in the previous chapter.

Take one cup of the decoction as a sleeping aid or one-half cup stress.

Dosages

for the tincture are

a sleeping aid. This

may

1

teaspoon for stress and 2 teaspoons as

combination of plants

prefer to prepare the tincture, in

spoon and not

a

to relieve

is

not pleasant tasting, so you

which case you need only take

a tea-

whole cup.

CANDIDA AND YEAST REMEDY Combine

pau d'arco, 2 tablespoons peppertree powders (makes ^2 cup). Pre-

3 tablespoons jatoba, 2 tablespoons

anamu, and

1

tablespoon Brazilian

pare as a standard decoction following the instructions provided in the pre-

As

add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to every 1 cup of water. For Candida, drink 1 cup of the decoction twice daily. The decoction can also be cooled to lukewarm and one cup used as a douche. For yeast infections, douche once daily for three consecutive days. vious chapter.

the decoction

is

boiling,

Rainforest Kennedies and Recipes

COLD AND FLU REMEDY combine 2 tablespoons each of powdered picao preto, fedegoso, mullaca, amor seco, mutamba, anamu, avenca, and guaco. Seal jar and shake well to mix (makes 1 cup). When needed for a cold or flu, shake jar well and then measure 2 level teaspoons of the mixture into a coffee cup. Pour 6-8 ounces of boiling water into the cup. Cover it with a saucer and let it steep fifteen minutes (stirring once halfway through). Let powder settle to the bottom and drink the tea warm or cold (leaving sediment in bottom of cup). Repeat every six hours. This same remedy can be prepared as a tincture if preferred for longerIn a glass

jar,

term storage. Follow the instructions for preparing tinctures in the previ-

cup of the mixture of powdered plants with 4 cups alcohol/ water. Dosages for the tincture are 1 teaspoon every six hours. For children, use 10 drops of the tincture for every 20 pounds of body weight ous chapter. Use

1

every six hours.

INDIGESTION REMEDY This

remedy can be used

to treat acidity in the

stomach, gastroesophageal

(GERD), or high-acid indigestion. Place V2 teaspoon each of powdered carqueja, guacatonga, and espinheira santa in a coffee cup. Pour 6-8 ounces of boiling water into the cup, cover it with a saucer, and let it steep reflux

fifteen

minutes

(stirring

once halfway through). Drink

warm

or cold, leav-

ing the sediment in the bottom of the cup. Alternatively,

cup

of each)

and

you can combine equal parts of

all

three plants (V4 or

V2

well-mixed herbal powder into empty gelatin most health food stores in several sizes). Take 1-2

stuff the

capsules (available at

grams (2-4 capsules, depending on the

size of the capsule)

when needed

for acid reflux or acid indigestion.

MENSTRUAL CRAMPS/PAIN REMEDY Combine V2 cup of abuta with V4 cup each of tayuya, manaca, and iporuru. Mix together in a large glass jar or bottle. Pour 2 cups of distilled water and 2 V2 cups of 180-proof alcohol (or 4 V2 cups of 40-proof vodka and no water) into the jar. Cap the jar and allow it to soak for two weeks, shaking end of two weeks, allow it to settle for three days without shaking, and then pour through a fine strainer or cheesecloth, leaving sediment in bottom of bottle. Place the strained tincture into a clean, preferably dark-colored glass jar or bottle with a lid. If kept sealed, in a cool (room the jar daily. At the

The Healing Power of

60

temperature) dark place, this tincture will

last for a

Rainforest Herbs

year or longer. For men-

teaspoon of the tincture two

strual pain

and cramps, take

1

daily, or as

needed. (Warning

—

to three times

this tincture tastes quite horrible!)

NATURAL COUGH SYRUP In a ceramic pot with a lid,

combine 4 tablespoons

of guaco, 2 tablespoons

embauba, and 2 tablespoons amor seco. Add 8 cups of distilled water. Bring to a boil and place the lid on the pot. Reduce heat to medium and

of

continue boiling until utes).

it is

Cool slightly and

reduced

to 4

powder

let

cups (about

settle to the

thirty to forty-five

bottom of the

min-

pot. Strain

mixture through a cheesecloth-lined tea strainer into a clean pot, discard-

Add

cup of sugar and bring back to a boil. Boil, covered with a lid, for about twenty minutes, until it is syrupy. Remove from heat and add V4 cup honey and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let cool. Pour into a glass jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator (will last several months). When needed for coughs or sore throats, take 1 tablespoon every four to six hours. Use 1 -teaspoon dosages for children. (This one actually ing sediment/ powder.

1

tastes pretty good!)

PAIN-RELIEVING MASSAGE OIL Combine oil

1

cup of andiroba

oil,

together in a glass or plastic

regular massage

oil,

cup copaiba oil, and V2 cup of grapeseed bottle and shake well to combine. Use as a

V2

or rub lightly into painful or inflamed muscles, joints,

and strains. If you live in the southern United States and can get your hands on some fresh scarlet bush leaves, infuse about V2 cup of fresh, roughly chopped and bruised leaves in this combination of oil. Combine the oils and leaves in a glass Mason jar and put in a sunny window for a week to infuse them. Strain out the leaves and put in a clean bottle. This makes a wonderful topical pain-relief remedy! sprains,

PARASITE CLEANSE Using ground powders, combine 5 tablespoons of amargo, 4 tablespoons of simarouba, 3 tablespoons of fedegoso, 2 tablespoons of epazote,

tablespoons of boldo and mix well, making

1

and 2

cup. Use a heaping teaspoon

per cup of water and prepare as a standard decoction. Take V2 to

depending on body weight, of the decoction twice daily consecutive days. This parasite cleanse remedy

is

for

1

cup,

twenty-one

generally used once

Rainforest

Remedies and Recipes

you are exposed to more parasites than the average American). This remedy is also a good one if you come down with amebic dysentery when traveling to Third World countries. annually (or twice annually

if

PROSTATE REMEDY For prostate pain and inflammation, combine 2 tablespoons each of jatoba

and

with

1

tablespoon each of nettle

leaf,

cipo cabeludo,

mutam-

Mix well and store in a glass jar. Prepare as needed as standard decoction and drink 1 cup two to three times daily. This decoc-

ba, a

nettle root

and pau

d'arco.

tion can also be taken as

1

cup twice weekly

to help

prevent prostate prob-

lems and maintain a healthy prostate.

The above herbal remedies are

just a

few

that are possible using the plants

featured in this book. Don't be afraid to try your

own combinations

to pre-

pare others. The tables of condensed information and condition-specific data in Part

Two

before using

it

you select which plants to combine together for specific conditions. Just remember to read the information about each plant in Part Three to make sure there are no particular contraindications will help

in a

remedy.

•

!.«•

^V

7

*

'

>»

>..-nrJ

' "iF^"

Embauba trees along the Amazon in Brazil

*nit

PART

TWO

Quick Guides to Medicinal Plants OF THE Amazon h

^ ^

Two

provides information on seventy-three widely used medic-

inal plants of the

Amazon

rainforest. This material

is

presented in

7^^ easily accessible table format for quick reference. Chapter 5 is a guide to the main properties and actions of common rainforest plants. Chapter 6 lists

various diseases and disorders, and which medicinal plants are used

in herbal therapy.

Chapter 7 summarizes the

specifics

on each

rainforest

botanical. Together, these three chapters provide the reader with a guide to

many

of the

actions,

most commonly used Amazonian

and possible

The

tables

plants, their properties

and

uses.

and the summary provided

in this section

reorganize and

much of the extensive information on each plant found in Part Two can help readers identify which specific plants they

cross reference

Part Three.

should consider and research for their particular needs

—be that a prop-

erty (for example, an anti-inflammatory agent or a diuretic) or a treat a specific tion).

way

to

disease/disorder (for example, asthma or a yeast infec-

However, since not

all

the plant information

is

completely

summa-

rized in these quick-reference guides, readers should always refer to the

comprehensive information about each plant given in Part Three. Part Two should serve as an excellent starting point to an exploration of rainforest botanicals.

CHAPTER 5

Properties

AND Actions OF Rainforest Plants his chapter presents valuable information, in

on the properties and actions attributed of the

Amazon

an easy-to-use

to the

table,

medicinal plants

region. Table 5.1 defines the technical terms used to

commonly used for the particular property/ action. This table also indicates those plants whose use for that action has been documented by research or by traditional describe these properties, and

lists

those plants most

medicinal use. Scientists, herbalists, health practitioners,

biological or therapeutic properties

and researchers

and actions

refer to the

of medicinal plants using

general industry-standard words like anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-

and so on. Some words, such as antibacterial and a7itiviral are easy and self-explanatory. Other words, such as vulnerary or verinifiige may be much less familiar to nonprofessionals, and in most cases, simpler, more easily understood words have been used here. Some of the more technibacterial,

cal

terms

may

also

have special nuances and meanings.

For example, the words refer to specific laxative-like

and cathartic all actions the substances can have on bowel

apierient, laxative, purgative,

elimination, but there are differences in their exact meanings.

A plant with

used as a very mild or gentle "laxative" (generic term) to increase mucus and water in the intestine to aid in elimination, and may take a day or two to take effect. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a

an aperient action

is

"laxative" that has a purgative or cathartic action promotes the immediate

and complete evacuation of the bowel, oftentimes prior to liquefying, acts in a few hours or less, and can sometimes cause intestinal cramping

The Healing Power of

because

stimulates the

it

smooth muscles

Rainforest Herbs

move things along and well-known word

in the colon to

rather quickly. Therefore, just using the generic "laxative" to describe these different properties

and actions

not always

is

helpful to the nonprofessional (especially one sitting in rush-hour traffic

thinking they've taken a "laxative" instead of understanding

it

was

real-

ly a purgative!).

In Table 5.1,

column

1 lists

and corresponding lay term.

word

a simpler

forest plants

the technical term for the property or action

A definition of the term or a cross reference to

for the particular property

is

column 2. Raindocumented in this

provided

having the specific property/action, as

in

book and by hundreds of third-party documents, clinical studies, laboratory experiments, and/or herbal medicine books published in other countries, are then listed. Since many actions and properties can be attributed to the same plant (and many plants can have the same documented action), it can get confusing to the average person, and even to the professional, as to which plant to first turn for a particular action or property. In

an

effort to simplify things,

ferent plants has

been broken

information about the uses of the

down

in three

Column

ways.

3

lists

top five plants that practitioners and herbalists generally turn to

dif-

the

first to

achieve a particular action; these five plants are listed in order of prefer-

The table also differentiates whether the actions /properties have been documented through research or only through traditional use in herbal medicine. Those plants whose specific actions/ properties have been documented through clinical research and/or laboratory studies are listed in column 4; these plants are listed alphabetically. Please remember that actions of the plants listed in this column may have been documented by ence.

a laboratory experiment, a test tube study, or preliminary

and not

human clinical study or medical

a

trial.

Finally, those plants

actions/ properties have been recorded just by their herbal medicine are listed in

column

5;

animal research

whose

documented use

in

these plants are also listed alpha-

betically.

This information has been compiled and provided as a quick-reference

guide ed to

to

what has been

make

to the text

specific

provided

documented on the plants. It is not intendmedical claims for them. As always, it is best to refer actually

in Part Three,

Medicinal Plants of the Rainforest, for

more complete information on each plant's potential actions, properties, and uses, as well as on what actual research supports it. These documented actions in herbal

may help explain why a specific plant is used in a particular way

medicine systems. For example, a plant used

in herbal

medicine

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

as a heart tonic or to lower high blood pressure

mented

to

have

a

67

might have been docu-

hypotensive action in an animal study. Table

5.1

may also

help the reader determine which plants he or she should read about in

more detail; for example, someone with arthritis looking for plants with documented anti-inflammatory actions would look under anti-inflammatory and be guided to read, in Part Three, about the top five plants used for anti-inflammatory actions.

Harvesting jergon sacha root.

The Healing Power of

68

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Abortifacient

TABLE

5.1

Definition

Rainforest Herbs

ofTerm

A

substance that causes or induces abortions.

A

substance that inhibits angiotensin-converting

(Abortive)

Properties

and Actions of

ACE

Inhibitor

Common Rainforest

enzyme,

Adaptogen

A

typically resulting in

lowered blood pressure.

substance that restores or balances,

unknown

in

some

way, the normal functions of an organ

or system.

Plants Aldose Reductase

An

Inhibitor

that converts glucose into a nerve toxin that results

agent that inhibits aldose reductase, an enzyme

nerve damage

in

(e.g.,

diabetic neuropathy, macular

degeneration).

Alterative

See Adaptogen.

Amebicide

An

(Anti-amebic)

infections.

Analgesic

A

(Pain-reliever)

also referred to as anodyne.

Anaphylactic

A

substance that causes an allergic reaction.

Anesthetic

A

substance that decreases or blocks nerve

agent used to

kill

amebas and

treat amebic

substance that relieves or reduces pain;

sensitivity to pain.

Antacid

A

substance that reduces or neutralizes stomach

acid.

Anti-allergy

See Anti-anaphylactic.

Anti-amebic

See Amebicide.

Anti-anaphylactic

A

(Anti-allergy)

reaction.

Antianxiolytic

An

(Anti-anxiety)

substance that blocks or reduces an allergic

agent used to reduce or prevent anxiety.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

69

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

Not

anamu, boldo, carqueja, chanca piedra,

applicable

clavillia,

Herbs

pau d’arco

Traditionally bitter

Used

melon, damiana, epazote,

espinheira santa, fedegoso, gervao,

manaca, picao preto, scarlet bush, vassourinha

erva tostao, embauba,

abuta,

embauba, erva tostao, mutamba

Not

applicable

mutamba, abuta suma,

cat’s claw,

erva tostao,

cat’s claw,

erva tostao, samambaia

samambaia, sarsaparilla

damiana, guarana, maca, manaca, muira

puama, picao preto,

sarsaparilla,

tayuya, velvet bean, yerba

chanca piedra, pedra

hume

annatto, chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi,

hume

caa, chuchuhuasi, annatto

pedra

simarouba, amargo, epazote,

amargo, epazote, erva tostao, graviola,

erva tostao, guava

guava, quinine, simarouba

internal

—

iporuru, tayuya,

Not

suma,

mate

applicable

caa

abuta, amargo,

amor

seco, anamu, andiroba,

bitter

melon, carqueja, cashew, gervao

andiroba, boldo, cipo cabeludo, clavo

manaca, vassourinha,

Brazilian peppertree, carqueja, catuaba,

huasca, epazote, espinheira santa,

mulungu

chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi, copaiba,

fedegoso, graviola, guaco, iporuru,

embauba, erva tostao, gervao, guacatonga,

juazeiro, mullaca,

sangre de grado, kalanchoe,

guarana, guava, jurubeba, kalanchoe,

sangre de grado, sarsaparilla,

manaca

macela, manaca, muira puama, nettle,

simarouba

external

—

copaiba, andiroba,

mulungu, quinine,

passionflower, pau d’arco, scarlet bush,

suma, tayuya, vassourinha, velvet bean

Not

balsam, Brazil nut, cashew, copaiba

applicable

chanca piedra,

Not

applicable

copaiba, embauba, guacatonga, guaco,

sangre de grado, manaca,

Brazilian peppertree,

guaco, scarlet bush,

curare, sangre de grado, scarlet bush

manaca

espinheira santa, guacatonga,

carqueja, espinheira santa, gervao,

annatto, copaiba, epazote

carqueja, gervao, jurubeba

guacatonga, jurubeba

amor

seco, nettle,

amor

kalanchoe, gervao, guaco

nettle

grado, suma, yerba mate

passionflower, mulungu,

mulungu, passionflower

anamu, catuaba, damiana,

Brazilian

peppertree

tayuya, manaca,

damiana

seco, gervao, guaco, kalanchoe,

erva tostao, pau d’arco, sangre de

graviola,

guava, manaca, muira puama, suma, tayuya, velvet bean

The Healing Power of

70

Technical

TABLE

Term

(Lay

Term)

Definition

Rainforest Herbs

ofTerm

Antibacterial

A

Anticandidal

An

(Anti-yeast)

Candida albicans.

Anticarcinomic

A

substance that

(Anticancerous)

(a

cancer that arises

Anticoagulant

A

substance that thins the blood and acts to

(Blood thinner)

inhibit

substance that

kills

or

inhibits bacteria.

5.1

Properties

and Actions of

Common Rainforest Plants (continued)

agent that inhibits or

An

Antidepressant

A

Antidysenteric

An

or

in

the yeast

inhibits

carcinomas

epithelium/tissue

cells).

blood platelets from sticking together

and forming a

Anticonvulsant

kills

kills

clot.

agent that reduces or prevents convulsions.

substance used to treat depression.

agent used to reduce or treat dysentery and

diarrhea.

Antifungal

An

Antihelmintic

See Vermifuge.

Antihemorrhagic

An

(Hemostatic, Styptic)

agent that

kills

or

inhibits the

growth of

agent that stops or prevents bleeding.

fungi.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs internal

—picao

preto,

71

Scientifically Validated

Herbs

Traditionally

abuta, anamu, andiroba, annatto, avenca,

aveioz, cipo cabeludo, nettle, quinine

mullaca, anamu, Brazilian

balsam, bitter melon, Brazilian peppertree,

peppertree, fedegoso

cashew, catuaba, chanca piedra,

external

—

copaiba, sangre

Used

clavillia,

copaiba, embauba, erva tostao, fedegoso,

de grado, mulateiro,

graviola, guacatonga, guaco, guarana, guava,

anamu, andiroba

jatoba, juazeiro, kalanchoe, macela, mulateiro,

mullaca, mulungu,

mutamba, pau

d’arco, picao

preto, sangre de grado, sarsaparilla, scarlet

bush, simarouba, stevia, vassourinha jatoba, pau d’arco,

anamu,

anamu, avenca,

Brazilian peppertree, picao

clavillia,

preto

pau d’arco, picao preto, stevia

—

(See previous column.)

Brazilian peppertree,

guaco, guava, jatoba, mulateiro,

amargo, anamu, andiroba, bitter melon,

aveioz, fedegoso, guaco, jergon sacha,

espinheira santa,

Brazilian peppertree, cat’s claw, chuchuhuasi,

samambaia, sarsaparilla

vassourinha, guacatonga

copaiba, epazote, espinheira santa, graviola,

internal

external

^graviola,

—

mullaca,

espinheira santa,

guacatonga, macela, mullaca, mutamba, pau

sangre de grado, graviola,

d’arco, sangre

mullaca, copaiba

vassourinha

de grado, simarouba, suma,

guaco, cipo cabeludo, boldo,

cipo cabeludo, guaco, guarana, macela,

mullaca, macela

manaca, mullaca, picao preto

erva tostao,

amor

seco,

abuta, mulungu, nettle

abuta,

amor

anamu, boldo,

cat’s claw,

pau d’arco

anamu, annatto, guava, jaborandi,

seco, erva tostao, graviola,

kalanchoe, macela, mulungu,

nettle

passionflower, tayuya

mulungu, tayuya,

cat’s claw, graviola,

mulungu

Brazilian peppertree, damiana,

muira

passionflower, muira

puama, passionflower, tayuya, yerba

puama, graviola

mate chuchuhuasi,

simarouba, sangre de grado,

amargo, cashew, gervao, guava, pau d’arco,

cat’s claw,

amargo, guava, cashew

samambaia, sangre de grado, simarouba

scarlet bush

abuta, anamu, Brazilian peppertree,

balsam, cashew, quinine

internal

—

jatoba, pau d’arco,

anamu, fedegoso, picao preto external

—

jatoba, copaiba,

clavillia,

copaiba, embauba, fedegoso, graviola, guacatonga,

guava, iporuru, jatoba, kalanchoe, mulateiro, d’arco, picao preto, sangre

de

sangre de grado, mulateiro,

mutamba, pau

pau d’arco

grado, sarsaparilla, scarlet bush, stevia, vassourinha

internal

—

abuta, sangre de

clavillia,

abuta, annatto, sangre de grado

Brazilian peppertree, carqueja, cashew,

grado, Brazilian peppertree,

embauba, fedegoso, guacatonga,

erva tostao, picao preto

juazeiro, mullaca,

external

—sangre de grado,

juazeiro, nettle,

kalanchoe

mutamba,

pedra

hume

simarouba

mutamba,

jatoba,

nettle,

caa, picao preto,

The Healing Power of

72

Technical

TABLE

5.1

Term

(Lay

Term)

Rainforest Herbs

Definition of Term

Antihepatotoxic

A

(Liver detoxifier)

or clears toxins from the

Antihistamine

An

substance that protects the

liver

from toxins

liver.

Properties

and Actions of

histamine production

Common Rainforest

agent used to counteract the effects of

Anti-inflammatory

A

in allergic

reactions.

substance used to reduce or prevent

inflammation.

Plants (continued)

Antileukemic

A

substance that

leukemia

Antilithic

An

kills

or

inhibits the

growth of

cells.

agent that reduces or suppresses the formation

of kidney stones and acts to dissolve those already present.

Antimalarial

An

agent used to treat malaria and/or

kill

the

malaria-causing organism, Plasmodium.

Antimicrobial

A

substance that destroys or inhibits the growth

of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and

other microorganisms.

See also Antibacterial, Anticandidal,

Antifungal, and Antiviral.

Antimutagenic

An

(Cellular protector)

from mutating

agent that can reduce, prevent, or reverse (for

example, prevent healthy

from mutating to cancer

Antioxidant

A

cells

cells

cells).

substance that prevents oxidation and

is

thought

to protect body cells from the damaging effects of

oxidation (through free radical activity and peroxidation).

lipid

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

73

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

boldo, carqueja, erva tostao,

artichoke, boldo, carqueja, chanca piedra,

chanca piedra, fedegoso

erva tostao, fedegoso, macela, picao preto,

Herbs

Traditionally

amargo,

Used

cat’s claw,

epazote,

mutamba

sarsaparilla

gervao, guaco, nettle,

amor

seco, kalanchoe internal

amor

—

iporuru, guaco,

seco, tayuya, cat’s claw

—

abuta,

amor

seco, gervao, guaco,

carqueja, erva tostao, iporuru,

kalanchoe, nettle

pau d’arco

abuta, anamu, andiroba, boldo, carqueja,

acerola, amargo,

cashew,

bitter

cat’s claw,

chuchuhuasi, copaiba,

amor

seco, annatto,

melon, chanca piedra, curare,

embauba, erva tostao, fedegoso, gervao,

epazote, espinheira santa, jaborandi,

scarlet bush, guaco,

guacatonga, guaco, iporuru, jatoba, juazeiro,

jergon sacha, mullaca,

kalanchoe

jurubeba, kalanchoe, macela, manaca,

external

copaiba, andiroba,

mutamba

mulungu, nettle, passionflower, pau d’arco, picao preto, samambaia, sangre de grado, sarsaparilla, scarlet bush,

suma, tayuya,

vassourinha, velvet bean, yerba mate

melon,

cipo cabeludo,

mullaca, picao preto,

bitter

vassourinha, simarouba,

espinheira santa, mullaca, pau d’arco, picao

cipo cabeludo

preto, simarouba, suma, vassourinha

chanca piedra, boldo, cipo

chanca piedra

cat’s claw,

(See previous column.)

amargo, artichoke, avenca, boldo, cipo

cabeludo, artichoke, erva

cabeludo, erva tostao, kalanchoe,

tostao

velvet bean

quinine, simarouba, amargo,

abuta, amargo, andiroba, chanca piedra,

amor

seco, anamu, annatto, damiana,

vassourinha, epazote

epazote, fedegoso, graviola, guava, pau

bitter

melon, carqueja, gervao, guaco,

d’arco, picao preto, quinine, simarouba,

jatoba, manaca, mullaca,

vassourinha

sarsaparilla, scarlet

boldo, cat’s claw, chanca piedra, fedegoso,

guacatonga, simarouba

cat’s claw,

chanca piedra,

samambaia, fedegoso, boldo

cat’s claw,

samambaia,

gervao, tayuya, fedegoso

mutamba,

bush

manaca, samambaia

abuta, acerola, anamu, annatto, artichoke,

avenca, bitter melon, jatoba, pau

boldo, Brazil nut, camu-camu, cat’s claw,

d’arco, pedra

chuchuhuasi, embauba, fedegoso, gervao,

suma

guarana, guava, macela, mulateiro, mutamba,

samambaia, sangre de grado, tayuya, yerba mate

hume

caa, sarsaparilla,

The Healing Power of

74

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Antiparasitic

TABLE

Definition

A

Rainforest

Herbs

ofTerm

substance that

kills

parasites, either internally

kills

protozoa, a large family of

or

externally.

5.1

Properties

and Actions of

Common

Antiprotozoal

(continued)

substance that

single-cell

Rainforest Plants

A

microscopic organisms, many of which

cause disease.

Antipyretic

See Febrifuge.

Antiseptic

A

substance that destroys or inhibits germs and

disease-causing organisms and

is

sufficiently

nontoxic to cleanse wounds and prevent infections.

Antispasmodic

A

(Muscle-relaxer)

contraction of smooth muscles.

Antitumorous

An

substance that relieves spasms or inhibits the

agent that

kills

tumor

cells

and/or prevents

the formation of tumors.

Cough Suppressant.

Antitussive

See

Anti-ulcerogenic

An

Antiulcerous

of ulcers or as a treatment for ulcers.

agent used to protect against the formation

(Anti-ulcer)

Antivenin

An

agent used against the

venom

or other venomous animal.

of a snake, spider,

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

75

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

amargo, simarouba,

amargo, andiroba, balsam, boldo, epazote,

annatto, bitter melon,

epazote, boldo, fedegoso

fedegoso, graviola, quinine, simarouba

erva tostao, guava, jatoba, macela,

Herbs

Traditionally

Used clavillia,

mulateiro, nettle, pau d’arco, picao preto, scarlet bush, velvet bean

amargo, guaco, simarouba, melon, anamu

bitter

amargo, anamu, bitter melon, epazote, erva

boldo

tostao, graviola, guaco, guava, quinine,

simarouba

mullaca, Brazilian peppertree,

balsam, Brazilian peppertree, copaiba,

abuta, andiroba, annatto, boldo,

picao preto, annatto

sangre de grado

cashew, damiana, embauba, epazote,

guava

(leaf),

espinheira santa, fedegoso, guacatonga,

(leaf)

guarana, guava, mullaca, mulungu, nettle, picao preto, quinine, sarsaparilla

amor

seco, abuta, vassourinha,

manaca, mulungu

abuta, amargo,

amor

Brazilian peppertree,

seco, annatto, boldo,

chanca piedra,

clavillia,

anamu, chuchuhuasi, damiana, epazote, guaco, iporuru, picao preto

curare, embauba, erva tostao, fedegoso,

gervao, graviola, guava, kalanchoe, macela,

manaca, mullaca, mulungu, mutamba, passionflower, quinine, vassourinha, velvet bean,

yerba mate

—

amargo, anamu, andiroba, bitter melon,

aveioz, gervao, jergon sacha, jurubeba,

espinheira santa,

Brazilian peppertree, cat’s claw, chuchuhuasi,

manaca

vassourinha, guacatonga

copaiba, epazote, espinheira santa, graviola,

internal

external

graviola, mullaca,

—

espinheira santa,

guacatonga, iporuru, kalanchoe, macela,

mutamba, pau

sangre de grado, graviola,

mullaca,

mullaca, copaiba

sangre de grado, scarlet bush, simarouba,

d’arco, picao preto,

suma, vassourinha

abuta, amargo, balsam, carqueja, cat’s claw,

andiroba, bitter melon, epazote, guava,

carqueja, espinheira santa,

chanca piedra, copaiba, espinheira santa,

juazeiro,

guacatonga,

gervao, guacatonga, jurubeba, kalanchoe,

(internal peptic) gervao,

cat’s clav^

(internal H. pylori) carqueja,

mutamba, pau

d’arco, tayuya

muira puama, picao preto

guacatonga, bitter melon, balsam, pau d’arco (external) copaiba, gervao,

kalanchoe, juazeiro, picao

preto jergon sacha, guaco,

annatto, guacatonga, guaco, picao preto,

abuta, amargo, anamu, curare, erva

guacatonga, embauba,

velvet bean

tostao, jergon sacha, manaca, pata de

picao preto, tayuya

vaca, pau d’arco, tayuya, vassourinha

The Healing Power of

76

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Antiviral

TABLE

Definition

A

ofTerm

substance that destroys or inhibits the growth

and

5.1

Rainforest Herbs

viability

of viruses.

Properties

and Actions of

Common Rainforest

Aperient

A

substance that acts as a mild laxative by

increasing fluids

Plants

in

the bowel.

(continued)

Aphrodisiac

An

agent that increases sexual activity and libido

and/or improves sexual performance.

Appetite Stimulant

A

substance used to increase or stimulate the

appetite.

Appetite Suppressant

A

substance that suppresses the appetite and/or

eliminates the feelings of hunger.

Astringent

A

substance that, by contracting blood vessels and

certain

body

tissues (such as

mucous membranes),

reduces secretions and excretion of

fluids

and/or

has a drying effect.

Bile

Stimulant

(Gallbladder)

A of

substance that increases the volume and flow bile

from the

gallbladder;

sometimes

called

choleretic.

Bile

Stimulant

A

substance that increases the production and flow the

sometimes

called chologogue.

(Liver)

of bile

Bitter

Having a sharp, acrid, and unpleasant taste that

in

liver;

thought to stimulate the flow of

bile

digestive juices to aid in digestion.

and other

is

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs internal

—

^jergon sacha,

mullaca, anamu, chanca piedra, bitter

external bitter

melon

Scientifically Validated

Herbs

melon, carqueja,

carqueja, fedegoso, nettle,

Used

andiroba, aveioz, avenca, copaiba,

peppertree, carqueja,

embauba, fedegoso,

cat’s claw,

catuaba,

clavillia,

erva

graviola,

guacatonga, jergon sacha

tostao, iporuru, kalanchoe, macela, mullaca,

mutamba, pau

d’arco, picao preto, sangre

de grado, simarouba,

vassourinha

Traditionally

amargo, anamu, bitter melon, Brazilian

cha de bugre, chanca piedra,

—sangre de grado,

clavillia,

77

stevia,

vassourinha

fedegoso

erva tostao, samambaia

amargo, annatto, Brazilian peppertree, carqueja, curare, damiana, erva tostao,

guava, jurubeba, nettle,

(male) muira puama, catuaba,

damiana, clavo huasca,

samambaia

damiana, muira puama, passionflower,

abuta, annatto, bitter melon, cashew,

suma, velvet bean

catuaba, chuchuhuasi, clavo huasca,

guarana, iporuru, maca, sarsaparilla

velvet bean

(female) clavo huasca, abuta,

catuaba, suma, passionflower quinine, bitter melon, jatoba,

amargo, quinine

amargo, avenca, bitter melon, boldo,

chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi, clavo

amargo, boldo

huasca, erva tostao, guaco, jatoba,

muira puama, samambaia, suma cha de bugre, guarana,

damiana, guarana

cha de bugre, yerba mate

cashew, mulateiro

acerola, amargo, andiroba, annatto,

damiana, yerba mate

mutamba, pau

d’arco, jatoba,

Brazilian peppertree,

artichoke, avenca, bitter melon,

guarana

Brazilian peppertree, cat’s claw,

camu-camu,

copaiba, damiana, embauba,

espinheira santa, graviola, guacatonga,

guarana, guava, jatoba, juazeiro,

macela, muira puama, mutamba, nettle, passionflower, pata

pau d’arco, pedra

hume

de vaca,

caa, picao

preto, quinine, simarouba

artichoke, chanca piedra,

artichoke, boldo, chanca piedra, macela

jaborandi

boldo, erva tostao, macela

boldo, artichoke, jurubeba,

artichoke, boldo, yerba mate

simarouba, artichoke

amargo, erva tostao, gervao, jaborandi, jurubeba

gervao, jaborandi

amargo, quinine, carqueja,

abuta, amargo, balsam, erva tostao,

amargo, andiroba, artichoke, quinine

bitter melon, boldo, carqueja,

damiana, macela, picao preto,

simarouba, tayuya

The Healing Power of

78

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Blood Cleanser

TABLE

Definition

An

ofTerm

agent used to cleanse or purify the blood;

sometimes

5.1

Rainforest Herbs

called a depurative.

Properties

and Actions of

Common Rainforest Plants Blood Thinner

See Anticoagulant.

Bronchodilator

An

agent that dilates or relaxes bronchial muscles.

Cardiodepressant

An

agent that decreases the contraction force

(continued)

of the heart and/or lowers heart rate.

Cardiotonic

A

(Heart tonic)

heart functions without overt stimulation or

substance that strengthens, tones, or regulates

depression.

Carminative

An

agent used to prevent or expel gas from the

stomach and

intestines.

Cathartic

See Purgative.

Cellular Protector

See Antimutagenic.

Central Nervous

A

System (CNS)

system.

substance that depresses the central nervous

Depressant Central Nervous

A

System (CNS)

system.

substance that stimulates the central nervous

Stimulant Choleretic

See Bile Stimulant (Gallbladder).

Choliokinetic

A

substance that increases the contractive

of the bile duct.

Chologogue

See Bile Stimulant

Cicatrizant

See

Wound

(Liver).

Healer.

powe

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

tayuya, sarsaparilla, samambaia,

sarsaparilla

79

Herbs

Traditionally

Used

amargo, amor seco, anamu, annatto,

manaca, mullaca

avenca, bitter melon, boldo, carqueja, cat’s claw,

chanca piedra, erva tostao,

espinheira santa, fedegoso, guacatonga,

guaco, guarana, guava, jaborandi, jurubeba, manaca, mullaca, mutamba, nettle, pata

de vaca, samambaia, tayuya,

vassourinha, velvet bean, yerba mate

amor

seco, guaco, embauba,

amor

avenca, balsam, embauba, guarana,

seco, gervao, guaco

manaca, velvet bean, yerba mate

gervao, balsam graviola,

mutamba, guava,

graviola, guava,

mutamba,

nettle

jaborandi,

manaca

nettle, jaborandi

embauba,

Brazilian pepper-

tree, erva tostao, picao

cha de bugre, embauba, guava, jurubeba,

abuta, acerola, annatto, artichoke,

picao preto, quinine, stevia, vassourinha

avenca, Brazilian peppertree, cat’s claw,

erva tostao, graviola, guarana, juazeiro,

preto, vassourinha

macela, muira puama, mulungu,

mutamba, passionflower, pau

jurubeba, epazote, bitter

copaiba

d’arco,

pedra

hume cal yerba mate

bitter

melon, boldo, carqueja, chanca clavo huasca, epazote,

melon, carqueja, espinheira

piedra,

santa

erva tostao, espinheira santa, guarani

clavillia,

jatoba, jurubeba, kalanchoe, macela,

picao preto, simarouba, suma, velvet

bean

manaca, kalanchoe, passionflower, mulungu,

damiana

muira puama, guarana,

damiana, guava, kalanchoe, manaca,

embauba, gervao, mulungu

passionflower, vassourinha

guarana, muira

puama

catuaba, velvet bean, yerba mate

catuaba, yerba mate, velvet bean

artichoke, carqueja, jaborandi

artichoke

carqueja, jaborandi

The Healing Power of

80

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Contraceptive

TABLE

Properties

Cough Suppressant

An

agent that prevents conception or interferes

A

fertility.

substance that suppresses coughing; also called

antitussive.

and Actions of

Definition of Term

with

5.1

Rainforest Herbs

Common Rainforest Plants (continued)

COX

Inhibitor

An

agent that inhibits or interferes with the

production of cyclooxygenase enzymes, which are linked to inflammatory processes

Decongestant

A

and diseases.

substance that relieves or reduces nasal or

bronchial congestion.

Demulcent

See Emollient.

Detoxifier

A

substance that promotes the removal of toxins

from

a

system or organ.

Diaphoretic

A

(Sweat promoter)

sudorific.

Digestion Stimulant

An

substance that induces perspiration; also called

agent that stimulates or strengthens the activity

of the stomach to improve the appetite and digestive processes; also called stomachic.

Disinfectant

An

agent that destroys or inhibits the growth of

harmful organisms.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

Not

bitter

applicable

guaco, embauba,

amor

seco,

melon,

cat’s claw,

81

Herbs

Traditionally

espinheira santa

amor

seco, epazote, vassourinha

abuta,

amor

guaco, guava, passionflower

passionflower, guava

Used

seco, annatto, avenca,

balsam, bitter melon, cashew, copaiba,

damiana, embauba, espinheira santa, gervao, iporuru, jatoba, jergon sacha,

mutamba,

juazeiro, kalanchoe, macela,

picao preto, vassourinha, velvet bean iporuru, picao preto,

anamu, iporuru, picao preto

Not

nettle

abuta,

applicable

anamu

amor

seco, nettle, embauba,

jatoba,

amor

seco, carqueja, cashew,

cipo cabeludo, embauba, erva tostao,

gervao

gervao, jatoba, jurubeba, mutamba, picao preto, vassourinha

samambaia, chanca piedra,

artichoke, sarsaparilla

amor

seco, avenca, bitter melon,

boldo, cat’s claw, chanca piedra,

fedegoso, tayuya, nettle

clavillia,

erva tostao, espinheira santa,

fedegoso, nettle, samambaia, tayuya,

vassourinha jaborandi, jatoba,

mutamba,

abuta, anamu, avenca, carqueja, cha

jaborandi

de bugre, chanca piedra, embauba,

picao preto, guaco

epazote, fedegoso, gervao, guaco, jatoba, macela,

manacl mutamba,

nettle, picao preto, sarsaparilla,

samambaia,

simarouba

amor

jurubeba, artichoke,

artichoke, boldo, carqueja, espinheira

abuta, amargo,

mutamba, carqueja, amargo

santa, jurubeba

balsam, bitter melon, Brazilian

seco, annatto,

peppertree, cashew,

cat’s claw,

piedra, chuchuhuasi,

clavillia,

chanca

clavo

huasca, damiana, embauba, erva tostao, gervao, graviola, guacatonga,

guarana, jatoba, juazeiro, muira puama,

mutamba,

nettle, quinine, sarsaparilla,

simarouba, tayuya, yerba mate mullaca, Brazilian peppertree,

Brazilian

peppertree

anamu, copaiba, espinheira

santa,

anamu, copaiba, espinheira

guacatonga, mullaca, mulungu,

santa

passionflower

The Healing Power of

82

Technical

TABLE

Term

(Lay

Term)

Definition

Rainforest Herbs

ofTerm

Diuretic

A

Emetic

An

agent that induces vomiting.

Emollient

An

agent that has a protective and soothing action

substance that increases urination.

5.1

Properties

and Actions of

Common Rainforest Plants (continued)

on the surfaces of the

skin

and membranes; also

called demulcent.

Expectorant

An

agent that increases bronchial mucous secretion

by promoting liquefaction of the sticky mucus and expelling

it

from the body.

Febrifuge

An

Galactagogue

See Lactation Stimulant.

Gastrotonic

Substance that strengthens, tones, or regulates

(Gastroprotective)

gastric functions (or protects

agent that reduces fever; also called antipyretic.

from

injury),

without

overt stimulation or depression.

Heart Tonic

See Cardiotonic.

Hemostatic

See Antihemorrhagic.

Hepatoprotective

A

(Liver protector)

damage by

substance that helps protect the

liver

from

toxins, other chemicals, or other

disease processes.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs erva tostao,

amor

seco,

Scientifically Validated

83

Herbs

abuta, boldo, chanca piedra,

embauba, erva

Traditionally acerola,

amor

Used seco, anamu, annatto,

chanca piedra, cipo cabeludo,

tostao, jaborandi, nettle, passionflower, pata

artichoke, avenca, Brazilian pepper-

nettle

de vaca,

tree,carqueja, cashew, cat’s claw,

sarsaparilla, scarlet bush, stevia,

vassourinha

cha de bugre, cipo cabeludo,

clavillia,

copaiba, curare, damiana, epazote,

espinheira santa, fedegoso, gervao,

guaco, guarana, jatoba, jergon sacha, juazeiro, jurubeba,

manaca, mullaca,

picao preto, samambaia, tayuya, velvet bean, yerba

Not

applicable

andiroba, avenca, copaiba,

mate

aveioz, graviola

copaiba, jaborandi, yerba mate

Not

amor

applicable

seco, andiroba, annatto, avenca,

balsam, boldo, bitter melon, Brazil

samambaia, sarsaparilla

nut, copaiba, mulateiro, nettle, picao preto, sarsaparilla,

embauba, guaco, samambaia,

guaco

mutamba,

samambaia,

vassourinha

abuta, amargo, anamu, andiroba,

annatto, avenca, Brazilian peppertree,

avenca, guava

copaiba, damiana, embauba, guava, jatoba, juazeiro, mullaca,

mutamba,

samambaia, vassourinha juazeiro, scarlet bush,

boldo, juazeiro, kalanchoe, manaca, nettle,

abuta, amargo, anamu, andiroba,

manaca, vassourinha,

scarlet bush, velvet bean

annatto, avenca, bitter melon, Brazilian peppertree, carqueja,

kalanchoe

cashew, chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi, curare, fedegoso, gervao, graviola,

guaco, jurubeba, mullaca, mutamba, picao preto, quinine, samambaia, sarsaparilla,

simarouba, vassourinha

jurubeba, picao preto,

annatto, artichoke, boldo, carqueja, cat’s claw,

abuta, amargo, avenca, bitter melon,

carqueja, cat’s claw,

chanca piedra, copaiba, gervao, guacatonga,

epazote, muira

guacatonga

guava, jurubeba, macela, picao preto

carqueja, erva tostao,

annatto, artichoke, boldo, carqueja, chanca

abuta, acerola, avenca, cat’s claw,

chanca piedra, picao

piedra, erva tostao, fedegoso, gervao, jatobi

epazote,

preto, boldo

macela, picao preto

puama

mutamba

The Healing Power of

84

Technical

TABLE

5.1

Term

(Lay

Term)

Definition

Rainforest Herbs

ofTerm

Hepatotonk

A

(Liver tonic)

sometimes employed to normalize

substance that strengthens or tones the liver

liver,

enzymes

and function.

Properties

and Actions of

Common

Hormonal

A

(Female)

to that of estrogen and/or a substance used to

Rainforest Plants (continued)

substance that has a hormone-like effect similar

hormone

normalize female

levels.

Hormonal

A

(Male)

to that of testosterone and/or a substance used to

substance that has a hormone-like effect similar

normalize male

hormone

levels.

Hyperglycemic

A

substance that raises blood sugar

Hypocholesterolemic

A

substance that lowers blood cholesterol

levels.

levels.

(Cholesterol reducer)

Hypoglycemic

An

agent that lowers the concentration of glucose

(sugar)

in

the blood.

Hypotensive

A

Hypothermal

See Refrigerant.

Immune modulator

A

substance that lowers blood pressure.

substance that

affects,

modulates or selectively

changes the functioning of the immune system (often used

Immune

stimulant

A

in

auto-immune

diseases).

substance that stimulates the activity of

immune

cells/function and/or increases the production of

immune

Immune

suppressant

A

cells.

substance that suppresses the functioning of the

immune

system.

Insecticide

A

Insect Repellant

An

Lactagogue

See Lactation Stimulant.

substance that

kills

insects.

agent that repels insects.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

85

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

carqueja, picao preto,

artichoke, chanca piedra, erva tostao,

abuta, acerola, amargo, anamu,

gervao, artichoke, chanca

fedegoso, jurubeba, mulungu

avenca, boldo, carqueja, embauba,

Herbs

Traditionally

piedra

Used

gervao, juazeiro, macela, mullaca,

pau d’arco, picao preto, vassourinha abuta, damiana, Brazilian

abuta, cat’s claw, damiana

Brazilian peppertree, chuchuhuasi,

peppertree, suma,

damiana, espinheira santa, maca, suma

chuchuhuasi

muira puama, sarsaparilla,

nettle,

bean

nettle, velvet

catuaba, chuchuhuasi, damiana, maca,

muira puama,

damiana,

sarsaparilla,

suma

velvet bean

Not

applicable

bitter

melon, artichoke,

suma, chanca piedra,

annatto, guarana

Not

artichoke, bitter melon, chanca piedra,

acerola, annatto, avenca, carqueja,

guava, suma, velvet bean

cat’s claw,

velvet bean

hume

chanca piedra, bitter

melon, stevia

abuta, anamu, annatto, avenca, bitter melon, carqueja, chanca piedra, damiana,

guava, macela, mullaca,

pedra graviola, abuta,

kalanchoe, muira puama,

sarsaparilla, vassourinha,

pata de vaca, pedra caa,

applicable

chanca piedra,

picao preto, erva tostao

hume

embauba,

mutamba, pata de

iporuru, jatoba,

vaca,

caa, stevia, vassourinha, velvet

bean

embauba, erva tostao, fedegoso,

graviola, guava, jurubeba,

cat’s claw,

mulateiro

abuta, Brazilian peppertree, carqueja, chanca piedra,

amargo,

yerba mate

muira puama,

mulungu, mutamba, nettle, passionflower,

annatto, artichoke, avenca, cashew,

gervao, guarana, jaborandi, pedra

hume

caa,

samambaia, velvet bean,

yerba mate

picao preto, stevia, vassourinha

cat’s claw,

samambaia

erva tostao, mullaca, nettle, picao preto,

samambaia,

cat’s claw,

anamu, mullaca,

anamu,

sarsaparilla,

bitter

melon,

cat’s claw,

pau d’arco

suma, velvet bean

cat’s claw,

chuchuhuasi,

chanca piedra, jergon sacha, maca, pau

mate

fedegoso, macela

fedegoso, macela, mullaca, scarlet bush

d’arco, simarouba, suma, yerba

Not

aveioz, kalanchoe

Not

amargo, graviola (seeds),

amargo, andiroba, epazote, graviola, kalanchoe,

annatto, bitter melon, Brazilian pepper-

andiroba, mulateiro, epazote

manaca, mulateiro, pau d’arco, quinine

tree, fedegoso, macela, vassourinha

andiroba, annatto, mulateiro,

andiroba

amargo, annatto, aveioz, mulateiro,

applicable

amargo, vassourinha

applicable

vassourinha

The Healing Power of

86

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Lactation Stimulant

TABLE

An

agent that increases the production of breast

galactagogue or lactagogue.

Properties of

Definition of Term

milk and/or stimulates milk flow; also called a

5.1

and Actions

Rainforest Herbs

Larvicidal

An

Laxative

A

agent that

kills

insect or parasite larva.

Common Rainforest

substance that stimulates evacuation of the

bowels, causing looseness or relaxation of the

Plants

intestinal muscles.

(continued)

Molluscicidal

An

agent that

method to

kills snails.

(Typically

used as a testing

find agents to treat schistosomiasis.)

Muscle Relaxer

See Antispasmodic.

Nervine

A

substance that has a normalizing or balancing

effect

on the nerves and/or central nervous

system.

Neurasthenic

A

substance used to treat nerve pain and/or

weakness

Neuroprotective

A

(neuralgia, sciatica, etc.).

substance that protects brain

helps repair

damaged

brain chemicals.

In

from damage,

brain cells, and/or balances

herbal medicine, neuroprotective

plants are often used for

Pectoral

cells

memory

disorders.

Pertaining to or used for the chest and

respiratory tract.

Pediculicide

An

agent that

kills lice.

Piscicide

An

agent that

kills fish.

(Also indicative that the

substance possibly has other properties that

make

it

toxic to parasites or bacteria.)

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

Most Widely Used Herbs nettle,

erva tostao, gervao,

87

Scientifically Validated

Herbs

None

Traditionally

Used

avenca, bitter melon, epazote, erva

avenca, graviola (fruit juice)

tostao, gervao, graviola, jaborandi,

mulungu, nettle

amargo, gervao, carqueja,

amargo, bitter melon, carqueja, gervao

boldo, bitter melon

balsam, boldo, jergon sacha,

simarouba

guava, gervao, tayuya,

amor

gervao

chanca piedra, amor seco

seco, aveioz, bitter melon,

boldo, chanca piedra,

clavillia,

embauba, epazote, espinheira Santa, guarana, guava, pau d’arco,

simarouba, tayuya

melon, cashew, cipo cabeludo,

graviola (seeds), bitter

bitter

melon, macela, epazote,

epazote, jatoba, graviola, guacatonga,

cashew

macela, pata de vaca

catuaba, damiana, tayuya,

damiana

graviola,

Not

applicable

amor

muira puama

seco, catuaba, cipo cabeludo,

epazote, graviola, guarana, guava,

muira puama, quinine, sangre de grado, scarlet bush, suma, tayuya,

yerba mate sangre de grado, passion-

passionflower, sangre de grado

catuaba, guarana, guava, macela,

flower, mulungu, tayuya,

manaca, muira puama, mulungu,

manaca

quinine, suma, tayuya, velvet bean,

yerba mate

samambaia,

cat’s claw.

sarsaparilla, guarana,

cat’s claw, graviola,

guarana, samambaia.

catuaba, damiana, mulungu, simarouba.

sarsaparilla, velvet

bean

suma, yerba mate

velvet bean

avenca, samambaia,

amor

None

abuta,

amor

seco, avenca, balsam,

catuaba, cha de bugre, copaiba,

seco, embauba, balsam

embauba, epazote, gervao,

graviola,

guaco, jatoba, kalanchoe, mutamba, picao preto, samambaia, sarsaparilla,

vassourinha

amargo, andiroba, graviola

amargo, balsam

guacatonga, nettle

(seed), balsam, fedegoso

abuta, graviola, aveioz,

andiroba, fedegoso, graviola,

None

abuta, anamu, aveioz, Brazilian

chanca piedra, Brazilian

peppertree, cashew, graviola,

peppertree, anamu

guarana, mulungu

The Healing Power of

88

Technical

Term

(Lay

Term)

Purgative

TABLE

Definition

A

Rainforest Herbs

ofTerm

substance used to cleanse or purge, especially

causing the immediate evacuation of the bowel.

5.1

Properties

and Actions

Refrigerant

a part of the body, used to

reduce the

metabolic activity of tissues or to provide a local

Rainforest

anesthetic effect; also sometimes

known

as

hypothermal.

Plants (continued)

substance that lowers the temperature of the

body or

Common

of

A

Sedative

A

substance that soothes, calms, or tranquilizes,

reducing or relieving stress,

irritability,

or

excitement.

Sialogogue

A

substance used to increase or promote the

excretion of

saliva.

Spasmolytic

See Antispasmodic.

Stimulant

A

substance that promotes or increases the activity

of a body system or function.

Stomachic

See Digestive Stimulant.

Styptic

See Antihemorrhagic.

Sudorific

See Diaphoretic.

Tonic

A

substance that acts to restore, balance, tone,

strengthen, or invigorate a body system without

overt stimulation or depression.

Uterine Relaxant

An

agent that relaxes the muscles

Uterine Stimulant

An

agent that stimulates the uterus (and often

employed during

active childbirth).

in

the uterus.

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

89

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

abuta, jatoba (fruit/seed),

None

Herbs

Traditionally

Used

abuta, annatto (seeds), aveioz, bitter

graviola (seed), manaca,

melon, cashew,

aveioz

(seeds), jatoba, manaca, yerba

scarlet bush, manaca,

manaca,

nettle, scarlet

bush

clavillia,

graviola

mate

annatto, avenca, bitter melon,

kalanchoe, mulateiro,

carqueja, cashew, erva tostao,

mutamba

kalanchoe, mulateiro, mutamba, nettle,

samambaia,

sarsaparilla,

vassourinha

manaca, mulungu, kalanchoe,

amargo, graviola, guava, kalanchoe,

anamu, boldo, epazote, gervao,

passionflower, vassourinha

mulungu, passionflower, vassourinha

macela, manaca, mullaca, nettle

jaborandi, espinheira santa,

jaborandi

amargo, Brazilian peppertree,

amargo, picao preto, Brazilian

espinheira santa, picao preto

peppertree

guarana, yerba mate, jatoba,

erva tostao, guarana, yerba mate

abuta, artichoke, avenca, boldo, Brazilian peppertree, catuaba, cha

chuchuhuasi, erva tostao

de

bugre, chuchuhuasi, copaiba, damiana, jatoba, maca, muira

puama, picao

preto, sarsaparilla, suma, yerba

cat’s claw,

suma, chuchuhuasi,

None

mate

abuta, amargo, artichoke, avenca, bitter

catuaba, sarsaparilla

melon, Brazilian peppertree,

carqueja, cashew, cat’s claw, catuaba,

chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi,

clavillia,

curare, damiana, espinheira santa,

gervao, jatoba, juazeiro, jurubeba,

maca, muira puama, pata de vaca, quinine, samambaia, sarsaparilla,

simarouba, tayuya, vassourinha abuta, passionflower, boldo,

chanca piedra, chuchuhuasi, embauba,

abuta, boldo

passionflower, pata de vaca

chuchuhuasi, embauba

melon, Brazilian peppertree,

fedegoso, mutamba, picao

bitter

preto, Brazilian peppertree.

fedegoso, graviola, mutamba, picao preto

bitter

melon

clavillia,

avenca, carqueja, erva tostao,

kalanchoe, nettle, velvet bean

The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs

90

Technical

Term

(Lay

Vasoconstrictor

TABLE

Vasodilator

An

ofTerm

agent that causes constriction of the blood

A

substance that causes a widening and/or

relaxation of the blood vessels and therefore an

and Actions of

Definition

vessels and decreases blood flow.

5.1

Properties

Term)

increase

Common Vermifuge

Rainforest

A

in

blood flow.

substance used to expel

worms from

the

intestines.

Plants (continued)

Vulnerary

See

Wound

A

Healer

Wound

Healer.

substance used to heal

tissue formation

wounds and promote

and the formation of a scab; also

called vulnerary.

The Amazon

River.

1

Properties and Actions of Rainforest Plants

91

Most Widely Used Herbs

Scientifically Validated

fedegoso, guava, nettle,

fedegoso, guava

artichoke, nettle

graviola, boldo, gervao,

boldo, catuaba, gervao, graviola, guarana,

Brazilian peppertree, simarouba,

guarana, yerba mate

yerba mate

stevia

amargo, epazote, simarouba,

amargo, bitter melon, boldo, carqueja,

anamu, andiroba, balsam,

boldo, carqueja

epazote, fedegoso, simarouba

chanca piedra,

Herbs

Traditionally

Used

artichoke

clavillia,

cat’s claw,

copaiba, erva

tostao, gervao, graviola, guaco, guava, jatoba, macela, mullaca, passionflower,

pata de vaca, picao preto, scarlet

bush, vassourinha, velvet bean

sangre de grado, copaiba,

balsam, Brazilian peppertree, copaiba,

juazeiro, scarlet bush,

juazeiro, sangre

Brazilian

peppertree

de grado

acerola,

amor

seco, andiroba, annatto,

avenca, bitter melon, cat’s claw, clavillia,

embauba, epazote, espinheira

Santa, gervao, guacatonga, guaco,

picao preto, sarsaparilla, scarlet bush, stevia,

vassourinha

CHAPTER 6

Herbal Treatment OF Specific Diseases AND Disorders he World Health Organization of the world's population

(WHO) estimates that up to 80 percent relies

still

mainly on herbal medicine for

'primary health care, especially in developing nations and rainforest countries. People in tropical forests

growing

in their

around the world have used the plants

backyards as part of

their healthcare

systems for millennia.

have discovered the remains of plants used as mediarchaeological dig sites in Latin and South America dating back to

In fact, archaeologists

cine at

the northwestern

Amazon

alone, at least 1,300 plant species are

8000

B.C. In

used

to create drogas do certdo or "wilderness

care needs in the region today.

Many

never been subjected to any type of

drugs" for the primary health

of these plant-based remedies

have

scientific research.

Traditional uses of medicinal plants can be very important, especially

and drug companies. If a plant has been used in a specific way for a specific purpose for many years and in many different geographical areas, there is probably a reason for it. It is this rapidly growing to researchers

industry (called ethnobotany) that helps scientists target which plants to

Indigenous people originally discovered the medicinal uses of three-quarters of the plant-derived drugs research

in

first

and what

to

study them

for.

use today.

pharmaceutical drugs aren't getting any cheaper and most are out of the financial reach of a peasant or farmer in the Amazon who earns the equivalent of $50 monthly to support a family of seven. That Let's face

doesn't

many

it,

mean he and

of the

same

his family can't afford to

illnesses

be

sick, or aren't faced

and maladies as people

in

with

developed nations. 93

The Healing Power of

What

it

does mean

is

Rainforest Herbs

most acceswide diversity of health problems ex-

that plant-based medicines are often the

and appropriate therapy for a perienced by rural and rainforest inhabitants. Often, these populations cultivate and transplant wild medicinal plants in and around their homes and villages and use them to treat many common health problems they are sible

faced with including fevers, fungal infections, respiratory problems, pain, gastrointestinal problems,

But that doesn't

mean

and even as antidotes

that

many

for

poisonous snakebites.

have a take occasionally for a simple headache,

convenient aspirin or two to

of these people wouldn't rather

some remedy

instead of going through the time-consuming steps of harvesting

and boiling them into a tea even aspirin can be unavailable or too

leaves, bark, or roots out of the forest for headache.

expensive for Table

6.1

The sad fact is that some forest dwellers.

serves as a quick reference for matching a specific disorder or

condition to the plants that have been used in the tropics, developing

and

nations,

rainforests to treat

it.

Diseases not

commonly found

in devel-

oped nations but often common in developing nations, which lack adequate immunization programs, and tropical diseases, are included in the following table. The information has been provided as a summary of historical medicinal uses for the plants by disease and condition. It was compiled, cataloged, and condensed from more than 500 published sources of documentation listed in the References section of this book. The goal is to provide information and a starting point for categorizing and cross-referencing the extensive information provided in Part Three. It is

not intended to

make any medical

scientifically or clinically

proven

eases or conditions in any way. the plants are

more

It

claim that the plants have been

to cure or effectively treat the listed dis-

also

is

not meant to imply or suggest that

effective at treating the specific conditions than

drugs

or products available in the United States or other developed nations, but

not available in the countries where these plants

grow and where

their his-

Sometimes it really is just easier the occasional headache (if you have

tory of medicinal use has been recorded.

and

better to take an aspirin to relieve

access to

it

and can afford

it).

Just because traditional herbal medicine anci

herbal remedies are c^ften used in the

Amazon and

other remote areas to

and drugs due to socioeconomic factors or simple unavailability, it is not advisable to use them here to replace or avoid proper medical care and drugs that could be beneficial. Again, conventional medicine and traditional medicine systems should ideally play complementary roles in health care one should not substitute the other. replace cc^nventional medicine

—

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

If

you are looking

for natural

remedies for a serious medical disease or

condition, please always seek the advice professionals. There are

95

and help of qualified healthcare

many healthcare professionals available these days

with practical medical training as well as education and experience with medicinal plants, supplements, and nutrition and dietary recommendations.

to

Find one. Books like

this one, as well as the Internet, are

begin your research, especially

when

good places

looking up and verifying both con-

ventional and complementary products, therapies, treatments, and drugs.

However, don't

start

and end

there.

Get qualified help and advice from

experienced health professionals that can combine the best of both health systems, practices, products, and therapies into an effective and compre-

hensive treatment program. Please always remember that

many medicinal

plants (including those discussed in this book) have active biological prop-

and active chemicals that should be treated with care, respect, and knowledge. Some are not without side effects, and for most, there is little data on their suitability and contraindications in combination with the many pharmaceutical drugs that are commonly and routinely prescribed erties

here in the United States.

TABLE

6.

1

Specific Diseases/Disorders Used

Herbal Medicine

and Their Herbal Treatment order of preference)

Condition

Plants

Abdominal Pain

jurubeba, carqueja, artichoke, erva tostao, kalanchoe, epazote,

in

(in

clavillia,

abuta, bitter

melon, fedegoso, chuchuhuasi

Abrasions

sangre de grado, andiroba, scarlet bush, mutamba, juazeiro, copaiba, fedegoso, balsam,

kalanchoe

See also

Abscesses

Wounds

guaco, erva tostao, fedegoso, picao preto, sarsaparilla, epazote, graviola,

samambaia, aveioz

(topical), clavillia, balsam,

cat’s claw,

jurubeba

Heartburn

Acid Reflux

See

Acne

abuta, sarsaparilla, bitter melon, espinheira santa, damiana, fedegoso, tayuya,

chuchuhuasi, artichoke, andiroba (external),

clavillia, cat’s

claw

Adrenal Gland

chuchuhuasi, tayuya, erva tostao, espinheira santa, maca, catuaba, suma, muira puama,

Disorders

cat’s claw,

Aging

samambaia,

(anti-)

AIDS and HIV

artichoke, passionflower cat’s claw, sarsaparilla,

suma, yerba mate, andiroba

(topical),

annatto

jergon sacha, mullaca, bitter melon, carqueja, amargo, chanca piedra, macela, vassourinha, cha de bugre, catuaba, simarouba, cat’s claw, pau d’arco

clavillia,

The Healing Power of

96

Condition

Plants

Allergies

amor

Used

in

Herbal Medicine

{hair loss)

order of preference)

seco, nettle, kalanchoe, gervao, guaco, carqueja, jatoba, pau d’arco, picao preto,

yerba mate, bitter melon,

Alopecia

(in

Rainforest Herbs

nettle,

samambaia

cat’s claw,

mutamba, avenca, gervao, catuaba,

sarsaparilla,

muira puama, chuchuhuasi,

picao preto, guarana (topical), quinine, jaborandi (topical), juazeiro (topical)

Alzheimer’s Disease

samambaia,

cat’s claw, velvet

bean, catuaba, sarsaparilla, guarana, damiana, mulungu,

simarouba, suma, yerba mate, anamu

Amebic

infections

simarouba, amargo, epazote, erva tostao, guava, graviola, quinine, bitter melon, carqueja, gervao

Amenorrhea

damiana, sarsaparilla, suma, espinheira santa, Brazilian peppertree, avenca, chuchuhuasi,

(absence of menstruation)

vassourinha, macela, gervao, epazote, maca, jergon sacha, tayuya, balsam, cat’s claw

Amyloidosis

mullaca, vassourinha, simarouba, anamu, Brazilian peppertree, suma, graviola, cat’s claw

Anal Warts

sangre de grado, vassourinha, bitter melon,

clavillia,

pau d’arco, macela, Brazilian

peppertree, jergon sacha

Anemia

carqueja, jurubeba, amargo, chanca piedra,

camu-camu, maca, erva tc^tao, vassourinha,

fedegoso, acerola, artichoke, suma, nettle, espinheira santa, simarouba, pau d’arco, quinine

Angina

mulungu, abuta, Brazilian peppertree, embauba, picao preto, epazote, carqueja,

Anorexia

amargo, samambaia, jatoba, jurubeba, boldo, damiana, quinine, carqueja, simarouba, passionflower, yerba

Anxiety

cat’s

claw

sarsaparilla, clavo huasca,

mate

mulungu, passionflower, tayuya, manaca, damiana, catuaba, damiana, graviola, guava,

muira puama, velvet bean, suma, anamu, curare

Arrhythmia

Brazilian peppertree, quinine, guava,

Arteriosclerosis/

macela, cat’s claw, artichoke, yerba mate, acerola, guaco, guarana, camu-camu, bitter

Atherosclerosis

melon, suma, vassourinha, sarsaparilla

Arthritis

amor

mulungu, abuta

seco, cat’s claw, guaco, iporuru, tayuya, picao preto, chuchuhuasi, nettle,

mulungu, scarlet bush, gervao, kalanchoe, samambaia, anamu, manaca, pau d’arco, mullaca, sarsaparilla, vassourinha, graviola, cipo cabeludo, suma, copaiba (topical),

andiroba (topical) Arthritis,

Rheumatoid

Asthma

See

Autoimmune

amor

Disorders

seco, embauba, avenca, guaco,

mutamba, samambaia,

jatoba, mullaca, gervao,

abuta, macela, nettle, kalanchoe, chuchuhuasi, mulungu, bitter melon, espinheira santa, epazote, fedegoso,

Athlete’s Foot

jatoba, sangre

anamu, balsam, damiana

de grado, copaiba, pau d’arco,

Brazilian peppertree, fedegoso,

anamu,

mulateiro, scarlet bush, juazeiro

Autoimmune

Disorders

mullaca, anamu, macela, fedegoso, cat’s claw, samambaia,

clavillia,

Brazilian peppertree,

erva tostao, picao preto, pau d’arco, velvet bean, nettle, suma, sarsaparilla

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

97

Condition

Plants

Back

tayuya, iporuru, cats claw, guaco,

Injuries/Pain

Herbal Medicine

in

(in

amor

order of preference)

seco, mulungu, manaca, picao preto,

vassourinha, scarlet bush, gervao, chuchuhuasi, sarsaparilla, cipo cabeludo, pau d’arco, copaiba (topical), kalanchoe (topical), andiroba (topical)

Bacterial Infections,

picao preto, mullaca, anamu, mutamba, embauba, Brazilian peppertree, guava, fedegoso,

General

sangre de grado, sarsaparilla, kalanchoe, macela, graviola, erva tostao, annatto, avenca,

simarouba, vassourinha, guaco, bitter melon, cashew,

clavillia,

copaiba, juazeiro,

mulateiro, scarlet bush, pau d’arco, chanca piedra, guacatonga, stevia, balsam

Bedsores

sangre de grado, copaiba, gervao, anamu, annatto, scarlet bush

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)

nettle,

pau d’arco

Bladder Disorders

jatoba, pau d’arco, abuta,

mutamba,

annatto,

clavillia,

jatoba, vassourinha, cipo cabeludo, graviola, damiana, chanca piedra,

anamu, chanca piedra, cipo cabeludo, erva tostao, fedegoso,

Brazilian peppertree,

amor

amor seco

Blennorrhagia

picao preto, erva tostao, jatoba,

(excessive mucus)

vassourinha, amargo, cipo cabeludo, Brazilian peppertree, manaca, abuta, tayuya

Bloating

jurubeba, amargo, artichoke, simarouba, boldo, carqueja, bitter melon, gervao,

seco, chanca piedra,

mutamba, embauba,

epazote, quinine, clavo huasca

Boils

anamu, guaco, mullaca,

clavillia,

mutamba, copaiba

(topical), picao preto,

fedegoso,

mulateiro, pau d’arco, annatto (topical), scarlet bush (topical)

Bone Cancer

vassourinha, graviola

See also

Bowel Disorders

Cancer

cat’s claw,

boldo, macela, jurubeba, sangre de grado, simarouba, tayuya, anamu,

mutamba, artichoke,

bitter

melon, carqueja, gervao, guaco, cipo cabeludo,

clavillia,

epazote, annatto

Breathing Problems

embauba, amor seco, avenca, samambaia, guaco, mullaca, mutamba, guava,

nettle,

picao preto, gervao, macela, jatoba, pau d’arco, abuta

Bronchitis

picao preto, embauba, guaco, samambaia,

amor

seco, avenca, jergon sacha, bitter

melon, simarouba, gervao, fedegoso, anamu, jatoba, mullaca, mutamba, Brazilian peppertree, macela, abuta,

Burns

scarlet bush, kalanchoe, sangre nettle,

Bursitis

clavillia,

epazote, juazeiro

de grado, andiroba, mulateiro, juazeiro,

sarsaparilla,

mutamba, annatto

cat’s claw,

iporuru, chuchuhuasi,

amor

seco, tayuya, picao preto, guaco, gervao, nettle,

sarsaparilla

Cancer

graviola, espinheira santa, mullaca,

simarouba,

cat’s claw,

mutamba, vassourinha,

bitter

melon, guacatonga,

anamu, pau d’arco, fedegoso, sangre de grado, suma, amargo,

copaiba

Candida

jatoba, pau d’arco,

(yeast infections)

de grado, andiroba

clavillia,

anamu, fedegoso,

(topical),

Brazilian peppertree, graviola, sangre

copaiba (topical), mulateiro (topical), guaco, guava

The Healing Power of

98

Used

Herbal Medicine

order of preference)

Condition

Plants

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

manaca, mulungu, iporuru, tayuya, amor seco, pau d’arco, kalanchoe

Cartilage Disorders

tayuya, cat’s claw, iporuru, maca, acerola,

Cataract

bitter

amor

(in

camu-camu

melon, jaborandi, annatto, erva tostao, fedegoso, gervao, Brazilian peppertree,

acerola,

Catarrh

in

Rainforest Herbs

camu-camu,

cat’s

claw

seco, jatoba, avenca,

mutamba, balsam,

nettle, guaco, cipo cabeludo, graviola,

erva tostao, picao preto, chanca piedra

Cavities, Dental

stevia, juazeiro,

Celiac Disease

cat’s claw,

Cellulite

andiroba (topical), cha de bugre

Cellulitis

anamu, fedegoso,

anamu, cashew

macela, anamu, boldo, sangre de grado, jurubeba, simarouba, tayuya, gervao

bitter

melon, mullaca,

clavillia,

peppertree, picao preto, gervao, simarouba,

scarlet bush, sarsaparilla, Brazilian

amor

seco, cat’s claw

Central Nervous

manaca, kalanchoe, passionflower, mulungu, damiana, muira puama, guava, guarana,

System Disorders

catuaba, yerba mate, velvet bean, vassourinha

Cervical Dysplasia

abuta, graviola, andiroba, cat’s claw, copaiba, anamu, fedegoso, erva tostao, bitter

melon,

Chagas Disease

clavillia,

macela, jergon sacha, gervao, chuchuhuasi, mullaca

epazote, guaco, mullaca, macela, anamu, pau d’arco,

clavillia,

embauba, copaiba,

carqueja, andiroba

Chickenpox

mullaca, bitter melon, vassourinha, jergon sacha, macela, claw, sangre

Childbirth

de grado

(topical),

clavillia,

chanca piedra,

cat’s

copaiba (topical)

abuta, anamu, avenca, bitter melon,

embauba, scarlet bush, vassourinha, mutamba,

sangre de grado, picao preto, gervao

and

Duct Diseases

Cholecystitis

See Gallbladder

Cholelithiasis

See Gallstones

Cholera

mutamba, guava, anamu, guaco, erva tostao, sangre de grado

Cholesterol, Elevated

artichoke, bitter melon, boldo, velvet bean, chanca piedra, guava, carqueja, yerba

Bile

mate, suma, sarsaparilla, vassourinha, maca,

Chorea

guava, embauba, epazote

Chronic Fatigue

cat’s claw, mullaca,

Syndrome

catuaba,

cat’s claw,

annatto, acerola, andiroba

anamu, fedegoso, jergon sacha, chuchuhuasi, maca, pau d’arco,

clavillia, sarsaparilla,

jatoba, guarana, yerba mate, suma, macela, muira

puama,

mutamba, gervao, erva tostao

Chronic Obstructive

embauba. abuta, amor seco, avenca,

Pulmonary Disease

gervao, guaco, mullaca,

jatoba,

samambaia,

cat’s claw,

macela, epazote,

mutamba

(COPD) Cirrhosis

erva tostao, chanca piedra, carqueja, boldo, picao preto, artichoke, guaco, fedegoso,

gervao

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

99

Condition

Plants

Cold Sores

See

Colds and Flu

picao preto, fedegoso, mullaca,

in

Herbal Medicine

(in

order of preference)

Herpes Simplex

melon,

clavillia,

amor

seco,

mutamba,

Brazilian peppertree, bitter

gervao, guava, simarouba, guaco, macela, jergon sacha, kalanchoe,

anamu, avenca, pau d’arco, samambaia, balsam, acerola, camu-camu,

Colic

guava, jurubeba,

Colitis

cat’s claw,

amor

cat’s

claw

seco, passionflower, boldo, cashew, damiana

boldo, simarouba, macela, picao preto, anamu, gervao, tayuya, sangre de

grado, cipo cabeludo,

jurubeba,

clavillia,

amor seco

Colon Polyps

graviola,

Conjunctivitis

annatto (topical), picao preto, guava, vassourinha, Brazilian peppertree, epazote,

mutamba, sangre de grado,

sarsaparilla, fedegoso, clavillia,

cat’s claw, bitter

abuta

Constipation

jatoba, annatto, fedegoso, artichoke, graviola, boldo,

Convulsions

erva tostao,

amor

melon, mullaca, vassourinha

clavillia,

epazote

seco, abuta, mulungu, nettle, graviola, manaca, annatto, tayuya,

anamu, guava, kalanchoe, macela, passionflower

Cough

guaco, embauba,

amor

seco, passionflower, guava, samambaia, avenca,

mutamba,

balsam, jatoba, picao preto, gervao, jergon sacha, vassourinha, epazote, juazeiro,

kalanchoe, macela, velvet bean

Crohn’s Disease

cat’s claw,

sangre de grado, macela, boldo, mullaca, fedegoso, carqueja, anamu, Brazilian

peppertree,

clavillia,

gervao, guaco, cipo cabeludo, simarouba, tayuya, abuta, artichoke

Croup

avenca, embauba, jergon sacha,

mutamba, guaco, balsam, epazote, guava, gervao, samambaia

Cuts and Wounds

sangre de grado, scarlet bush,

cat’s claw, nettle,

andiroba, juazeiro, copaiba, balsam,

Brazilian peppertree, espinheira santa, sarsaparilla, guacatonga, guaco, picao preto

Cystic Fibrosis

amor

seco, samambaia, nettle, embauba, gervao, picao preto, abuta, erva tostao,

amargo Cystitis

See Interstitial Cystitis

Dandruff

copaiba, juazeiro, avenca, nettle, quinine, guarana, balsam, brazil nut, artichoke

Degenerative

sangre de grado, samambaia,

Nerve Diseases

flower, mulungu, tayuya, manaca, pau d’arco, yerba mate, picao preto

Dementia

See

Dengue Fever

simarouba, amargo, jergon sacha, mullaca, anamu, chanca piedra, bitter melon,

Memory

cat’s claw, sarsaparilla,

guarana, velvet bean, passion-

Disorders

manaca, kalanchoe, guaco, scarlet bush, juazeiro, vassourinha

Depression

mulungu, tayuya, passionflower, muira puama, damiana, graviola,

cat’s claw, Brazilian

peppertree, yerba mate

Dermatitis

Internal:

samambaia, pau d’arco,

cat’s claw, sarsaparilla,

boldo, fedegoso, tayuya,

External: andiroba, copaiba, scarlet bush, sangre de grado, juazeiro,

guacatonga, mulateiro, balsam, annatto

mutamba,

suma

The Healing Power of

100

Used

Herbal Medicine

Condition

Plants

Diabetes

pata de vaca, pedra

in

hume

(in

order of preference)

melon, chanca piedra,

caa, bitter

Rainforest Herbs

stevia, annatto,

chuchuhuasi, embauba, guava, macela, mullaca, mutamba, vassourinha, carqueja,

Diabetic Kidney

chanca piedra, erva tostao, sarsaparilla

Problems

See also Kidney Disorders, General

Diabetic Macular

chanca piedra, pedra

hume

caa, chuchuhuasi,

anamu

annatto

Degeneration Diabetic Neuropathy

sangre de grado, chanca piedra, pedra

Diaper Rash

andiroba, scarlet bush, copaiba, guava

Diarrhea

sangre de grado, amargo, simarouba, guava, bitter melon, Brazilian peppertree, carqueja, cashew, fedegoso, epazote,

Digestive Disorders

hume

caa, chuchuhuasi, tayuya,

annatto

anamu

artichoke, carqueja, jurubeba, espinheira santa, boldo, erva tostao, guacatonga, sangre

de grado, amargo, quinine, cipo cabeludo, simarouba, annatto, bitter melon, gervao,

Diphtheria

amor

cat’s claw,

seco, picao preto

mutamba, embauba, picao preto, mullaca, anamu,

Brazilian peppertree, fedegoso,

macela, avenca, guava, annatto, kalanchoe, erva tostao, simarouba, vassourinha, guaco,

cashew, copaiba, jaborandi Diverticulitis

cat’s claw,

gervao,

boldo, abuta, sangre de grado, jurubeba, macela, tayuya, passionflower,

anamu

Dry Eye Syndrome

jaborandi

Dysentery

simarouba, amargo, guava, sangre de grado, epazote, erva tostao, Brazilian peppertree,

cashew, mutamba, anamu,

Dysmenorrhagia menstruation)

(painful

Dyspepsia E. coli

Infections

clavillia,

abuta, erva tostao, vassourinha,

fedegoso, gervao

amor

seco, tayuya, iporuru, manaca, chuchuhuasi,

passionflower, scarlet bush

See indigestion

anamu, guava, macela,

bitter

melon, mutamba, embauba, sangre de grado, jatoba,

catuaba, kalanchoe, annatto

Ear Infections/Earaches

annatto (topical), gervao (topical), (topical), boldo,

Eating Disorders

kalanchoe

amargo, quinine, guava,

clavillia,

fedegoso, vassourinha, mullaca, guava

(topical), picao preto,

sarsaparilla,

cashew

damiana, simarouba, boldo, carqueja, jurubeba,

artichoke

Eczema

sarsaparilla, andiroba, tayuya,

balsam, nettle,

pau d’arco,

Edema

clavillia,

cat’s claw,

samambaia, bitter melon, sangre de grado, copaiba,

cashew, guacatonga (topical), gervao, guaco, vassourinha,

boldo, suma, fedegoso

chanca piedra, annatto, kalanchoe, cha de bugre, erva tostao, nettle, amor seco,

anamu, guacatonga, carqueja

Brazilian peppertree, jaborandi, curare, picao preto, jurubeba,

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

Condition

Plants

Elephantiasis

mutamba, pata de

Emphysema

jatoba, macela,

in

Herbal Medicine

(in

order of preference)

vaca, sarsaparilla, nettle,

samambaia

anamu, embauba, manaca, samambaia, avenca, amor seco, epazote,

gervao, guaco, mullaca,

Encephalitis

101

mutamba

simarouba, amargo, jergon sacha, mullaca, anamu, chanca piedra, bitter melon,

manaca, kalanchoe, guaco, scarlet bush, juazeiro, vassourinha

Endocrine Disorders

maca, sarsaparilla, abuta, chuchuhuasi, damiana, suma, muira puama, catuaba, nettle

Endometriosis

abuta, graviola, tayuya, iporuru, gervao, chuchuhuasi, erva tostao, cat’s claw

Enteritis

See Gastritis/Gastroenteritis

Epilepsy

mulungu, manaca, amor seco, passionflower, catuaba, muira puama, graviola, tayuya

Epstein-Barr Virus

bitter

melon, tayuya,

cat’s claw,

suma, Brazilian peppertree, mullaca, jergon sacha,

macela, chanca piedra, vassourinha,

clavillia

Impotence

Erectile Dysfunction

See

Erysipelas

vassourinha, gervao, mutamba, jurubeba, fedegoso, scarlet bush, Brazilian peppertree, annatto, copaiba, fedegoso, anamu, erva tostao, kalanchoe, abuta, nettle

Eye Diseases

annatto, cashew, guava, jaborandi

Fatigue

jatoba, maca, guarana, chuchuhuasi, yerba mate, suma, catuaba, muira

puama,

sarsaparilla

Fatty Liver

chanca piedra, artichoke, boldo, erva tostao, fedegoso, carqueja, picao preto, gervao

Fever

juazeiro, scarlet bush, manaca, vassourinha, kalanchoe, velvet bean, nettle, boldo,

quinine, amargo, curare, guaco,

mutamba, simarouba

Fibroids

See Uterine Fibroids

Fibromyalgia

mullaca, anamu, macela, Brazilian peppertree,

clavillia,

gervao, tayuya, iporuru, muira puama, mulungu,

amor

manaca, chuchuhuasi, fedegoso, seco, passionflower

Fistulas

guaco, erva tostao, fedegoso, picao preto, anamu, epazote, graviola, samambaia,

Flatulence

jurubeba, epazote, bitter melon, carqueja, espinheira santa, copaiba, boldo, chanca

clavillia

piedra, kalanchoe, macela, artichoke

Fractures

embauba,

nettle, epazote, sangre

de grado,

clavillia,

Brazilian peppertree, scarlet bush,

kalanchoe

Fungal Infections

anamu, fedegoso, picao preto, copaiba, sangre de grado, mulateiro, peppertree, clavillia, graviola, guava, kalanchoe, scarlet bush, embauba,

jatoba, pau d’arco, Brazilian

guacatonga, vassourinha

Gallbladder and Bile

Duct Diseases

Gallstones

artichoke, boldo, chanca piedra, erva tostao, amargo, carqueja, jurubeba, macela, abuta, avenca, balsam, bitter melon, fedegoso, gervao

chanca piedra, boldo, carqueja, avenca, amargo, artichoke, cipo cabeludo, jurubeba, macela, erva tostao

The Healing Power of

102

Condition

Plants

Used

in

Herbal Medicine

(in

Rainforest Herbs

order of preference)

Gastritis/

jurubeba, carqueja, espinheira santa, guava, macela, boldo, epazote, picao preto, gervao,

Gastroenteritis

guaco, sangre de grado, cats claw, simarouba, amargo, pedra

Gastrointestinal

sangre de grado, Brazilian peppertree, abuta, carqueja, erva tostao, picao preto, cashew,

Bleeding

mutamba, simarouba

Genital

Warts

See

Human

guava, simarouba, anamu,

Glaucoma

jaborandi

Gonorrhea

mutamba, pau

Gout

caa, tayuya, sarsaparilla

Papilloma Virus (HPV)

Giardia Infections

clavillia,

hume

mutamba

d’arco, picao preto, annatto, bitter melon, boldo, Brazilian peppertree,

embauba, chanca piedra, erva tostao,

cat’s claw,

copaiba, curare, jaborandi

chanca piedra, carqueja, cipo cabeludo, tayuya, boldo, artichoke, epazote, manaca, guaco, sarsaparilla, jergon sacha, velvet bean, bitter

melon, picao preto, yerba mate,

chuchuhuasi, Brazilian peppertree, balsam

Gum

Diseases

Brazilian peppertree,

anamu, mulungu, macela, guava, samambaia,

pau d’arco, gervao, juazeiro,

clavillia,

See Alopecia

Hangover

jurubeba

Hay Fever

See Allergies

Head

amargo, andiroba, balsam, fedegoso, graviola (seeds), nettle

Headache

fedegoso,

cashew

Hair Loss

Lice

cat’s claw,

iporuru, tayuya, manaca, vassourinha, mulungu, pau d’arco,

amor

seco, scarlet bush,

passionflower, kalanchoe, guaco, gervao, guarana, muira puama, chuchuhuasi, damiana, abuta, cat’s claw

Heart Diseases, General

abuta, avenca, Brazilian peppertree, embauba, cha de bugre, cat’s claw, guarana, graviola,

guava, mulungu, gervao, artichoke, jurubeba, yerba mate, suma, vassourinha, sarsaparilla,

chanca piedra, picao preto,

stevia, quinine, boldo, bitter

melon, samambaia, erva tostao

Heart Palpitations

mulungu, Brazilian peppertree, quinine, abuta, guava

Heart Valve Diseases

mullaca, Brazilian peppertree, anamu,

Heartburn/Reflux

carqueja, espinheira santa, guacatonga, boldo, epazote, guaco, gervao, picao preto,

clavillia,

macela, fedegoso, tayuya, iporuru

annatto, jergon sacha

Heat Stroke

scarlet bush, guarana, manaca, kalanchoe, mulateiro,

Helicobacter pylori

carqueja, pau d’arco, cashew, bitter

melon

(fruit),

mutamba

balsam, copaiba, guacatonga, guava

Stomach Ulcers Hemochromatosis

damiana, mulungu, manaca

Hemorrhages

abuta, sangre de grado, Brazilian peppertree, erva tostao,

pedra

Hemorrhagic Fevers

hume

mutamba, picao preto, annatto,

caa, scarlet bush, simarouba, kalanchoe, juazeiro

embauba, guava, epazote,

Brazilian peppertree, clavillia,

mutamba, erva tostao,

scarlet bush

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

103

Condition

Plants

Hemorrhoids

sangre de grado, Brazilian peppertree, copaiba, vassourinha, epazote, erva tostao,

in

Herbal Medicine

(in

order of preference)

passionflower, picao preto, chuchuhuasi, artichoke, quinine, yerba mate, nettle

Hepatitis

chanca piedra, jergon sacha, mullaca, anamu, macela, sangre de grado, bitter

fedegoso,

clavillia,

melon, vassourinha, mutamba, erva tostao, gervao, carqueja, picao preto, mulungu

Hernia

jergon sacha, mulungu, fedegoso, pau d’arco, tayuya, iporuru

Herniated Disk

iporuru, tayuya, chuchuhuasi,

amor

seco, gervao, guaco, picao preto, kalanchoe,

sarsaparilla

Herpes Simplex

(I

&

II)

jergon sacha, sangre de grado, mullaca, vassourinha, mutamba, simarouba, bitter melon, clavillia,

pau d’arco, cha de bugre, macela, carqueja, chanca piedra, guacatonga, embauba,

andiroba

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

cat’s claw,

gervao,

Hiatal Hernia

jergon sacha, mullaca, sangre de grado, pau d’arco, bitter melon, vassourinha,

clavillia,

macela, passionflower

carqueja, guaco, guacatonga, espinheira santa, sangre de grado, tayuya, gervao, picao

preto, boldo, jergon sacha, epazote, annatto

High Blood Pressure

abuta, graviola, chanca piedra, picao preto, erva tostao, Brazilian peppertree, stevia,

embauba,

mulungu, mutamba, fedegoso, guava, carqueja, passionflower, vassourinha,

jurubeba, nettle

AIDS and HIV

HIV

See

Hives

nettle, kalanchoe, guaco,

de grado

amor

seco, pau d’arco, gervao, picao preto, carqueja, sangre

andiroba (topical)

(topical),

See also Allergies

Hodgkin’s Disease

bitter

melon, graviola, pau d’arco, mullaca, vassourinha, anamu, mutamba,

espinheira santa, simarouba,

cat’s claw,

suma

Hot Flashes

manaca, scarlet bush, vassourinha, kalanchoe

Human

andiroba, bitter melon, sangre de grado, jergon sacha, copaiba, vassourinha,

Virus

Papilloma

(HPV)

cat’s claw,

macela, mullaca, chanca piedra

embauba, epazote, mulungu, manaca, samambaia,

Huntington’s Disease

velvet bean, guava,

Hypertension

See High Blood Pressure

Immune System

cat’s claw,

Disorders

bitter

Impetigo

sangre de grado, pau d’arco, anamu, mullaca, embauba,

anamu, mullaca, fedegoso, samambaia, macela, suma, chuchuhuasi,

andiroba

(topical),

sarsaparilla,

amor

seco,

clavillia,

fedegoso, copaiba

annatto (topical), kalanchoe (topical)

muira puama, velvet bean, catuaba, damiana, macela,

Indigestion

claw

cat’s

melon, acerola, camu-camu, erva tostao

(topical),

Impotence

clavillia,

nettle, sarsaparilla, iporuru,

suma, maca,

mutamba, cashew

jurubeba, artichoke, amargo, espinheira santa, carqueja, boldo, damiana, gervao, picao preto, guacatonga, bitter melon, passionflower, guaco, quinine, simarouba

The Healing Power of

104

Used

Herbal Medicine

Rainforest Herbs

order of preference)

Condition

Plants

Infectious

picao preto, fedegoso, mullaca, Brazilian peppertree, mutamba, guaco, bitter melon,

Mononucleosis

cat’s claw, clavillia,

in

(in

anamu, jergon sacha, suma, macela

Infertility,

Female

maca, abuta, suma, chuchuhuasi, iporuru

Infertility,

Male

maca, velvet bean, catuaba, chuchuhuasi, muira puama, sarsaparilla

Inflammatory

iporuru, guaco,

Conditions

manaca, mulungu, erva tostao, scarlet bush, picao preto, samambaia, abuta, kalanchoe,

amor

seco, tayuya, cat’s claw, chuchuhuasi, guaco, copaiba, embauba,

gervao, nettle, passionflower, pau d’arco, guacatonga, juazeiro, anamu, andiroba, boldo, carqueja, cashew, fedegoso, jurubeba, macela, sangre de grado, sarsaparilla, suma,

vassourinha, velvet bean

and Flu

Influenza

See Colds

Insect Bites and Stings

sangre de grado, guacatonga, guaco, scarlet bush, copaiba, kalanchoe, jergon sacha,

embauba, vassourinha, amargo, mulateiro, picao preto, gervao, abuta Insect Repellant

andiroba, amargo, mulateiro,

clavillia,

simarouba, annatto, fedegoso, guaco, Brazilian

peppertree, quinine, cashew, aveioz

Insomnia

manacl mulungu,

Interstitial Cystitis

jatoba, copaiba, boldo, cipo cabeludo, pau d’arco, erva tostao, annatto,

passionflower, catuaba, boldo, graviola, kalanchoe

anamu, chanca

piedra, Brazilian peppertree, abuta, samambaia, picao preto, sarsaparilla, pata de vaca,

jurubeba, artichoke, mulungu, nettle

Intestinal Parasites

amargo, simarouba, epazote, boldo, fedegoso, carqueja, quinine, andiroba, balsam, graviola, bitter

Irritable

Bowel

cat’s claw,

melon, gervao, erva tostao

macela, sangre de grado, boldo, artichoke, jurubeba, simarouba, tayuya,

Syndrome

anamu, abuta, fedegoso, gervao, guaco, mullaca

Itching

andiroba, sangre de grado, nettle, kalanchoe, scarlet bush, artichoke, guaco, chanca piedra, guava, fedegoso, picao preto, gervao, balsam, bitter melon, vassourinha, pau d’arco

Jaundice

chanca piedra, artichoke, erva tostao, boldo, fedegoso, carqueja, picao preto, avenca, abuta, vassourinha, scarlet bush, bitter melon, annatto, jurubeba, guava, curare

Jock Itch

See Fungal Infections

Kidney Disorders, General

chanca piedra, erva tostao, cipo cabeludo, vassourinha, mutamba, amor seco,

nettle,

amargo, jatoba, picao preto, samambaia, copaiba, abuta, carqueja, anamu, mullaca, sarsaparilla,

damiana,

cat’s claw,

annatto, fedegoso, gervao, pata de vaca, curare

Kidney Failure and Dialysis

erva tostao, chanca piedra, samambaia, sarsaparilla,

Kidney Stones

chanca piedra, amargo, abuta, boldo, cipo cabeludo, erva tostao, gervao, kalanchoe, bitter

Laryngitis

cat’s

claw

melon, curare, avenca, pata de vaca

guaco, sangre de grado, picao preto, avenca, guava, jatoba, macela, balsam, epazote, jaborandi

amor

seco, cat’s claw,

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

105

Condition

Plants

Leishmaniasis

cashew, pau d’arco, chuchuhuasi, graviola, sarsaparilla, copaiba, kalanchoe

Leprosy

sarsaparilla, clavillia,

Leukemia

in

Herbal Medicine

mutamba, guacatonga,

(in

order of preference)

bitter melon, fedegoso, vassourinha, andiroba,

tayuya, nettle, pata de vaca

mullaca, picao preto, vassourinha, simarouba, cipo cabeludo, anamu, suma, pau d’arco, cat’s claw, bitter

Head

melon, espinheira santa, amargo, graviola

Lice

See

Lipomas

espinheira santa, artichoke, embauba, andiroba (topical), sangre de grado (topical),

Lice

vassourinha, erva tostao, picao preto, fedegoso, mullaca, cat’s claw

Listeria Infections

anamu, pau d’arco, mullaca

Liver Disorders,

erva tostao, picao preto, carqueja, fedegoso, boldo, chanca piedra, gervao, artichoke,

General

amargo, macela, jurubeba, mulungu, guaco, annatto, avenca, epazote

Lupus

See

Lymphatic Diseases

manaca,

Autoimmune

Disorders

sarsaparilla, kalanchoe, jergon sacha, cat’s claw,

suma, gervao, guaco,

espinheira santa, graviola

Macular Degeneration

See Diabetic Macular Degeneration

Malaria

quinine, simarouba, amargo, vassourinha, epazote, fedegoso, graviola, guava, pau d’arco,

picao preto, andiroba, chanca piedra, abuta, erva tostao

Measles

mullaca, amargo, sarsaparilla,

clavillia,

jergon sacha, macela, epazote, vassourinha,

chanca piedra, sangre de grado (topical)

Memory

Disorders

samambaia, catuaba,

sarsaparilla, guarana,

suma, anamu, velvet bean,

cat’s claw,

maca,

muira puama, damiana, epazote

Men’s Health, General

muira puama,

sarsaparilla, catuaba,

chuchuhuasi, mutamba, suma, cipo cabeludo, velvet

bean, cat’s claw

Menopause

abuta, espinheira santa, damiana, suma, sarsaparilla, chuchuhuasi, kalanchoe, mulungu,

avenca, bitter melon, clavo huasca, maca, passionflower

Menorrhagia

abuta, Brazilian peppertree, erva tostao, vassourinha, sarsaparilla, nettle, velvet bean,

(excessive menstruation)

chanca piedra

Menstrual Cramps

abuta, manaca,

amor

seco, mulungu, iporuru, tayuya, passionflower, vassourinha,

kalanchoe, scarlet bush

Metrorrhagia (bleeding

abuta, damiana, nettle, sarsaparilla, espinheira santa, suma, vassourinha,

maca

between periods)

Migraine

manaca, iporuru, passionflower, tayuya, pau d’arco, mulungu, guarana, scarlet bush, vassourinha, kalanchoe

anamu, pau d’arco,

Molds

jatoba, Brazilian peppertree,

Molluscum contagiosum

sangre de grado, bitter melon,

clavillia,

clavillia,

fedegoso

mullaca, macela, vassourinha, jergon sacha, copaiba

The Healing Power of

106

Used

order of preference)

Condition

Plants

Morning Sickness

jurubeba

Mouth Ulcers

sangre de grado, guaco, Brazilian peppertree, pau d’arco, jatoba,

in

Herbal Medicine

Rainforest Herbs

(in

clavillia,

mutamba,

copaiba (topical), fedegoso, anamu, bitter melon, mullaca, macela, jergon sacha, vassourinha, carqueja

Multiple

Myeloma

graviola, mullaca, bitter

melon,

cat’s claw,

espinheira santa, guacatonga, vassourinha,

mutamba, anamu, simarouba, amargo, suma Multiple Sclerosis

jergon sacha, mullaca, macela, sangre de grado, tayuya, iporuru, manaca, pau d’arco,

amor

Mumps

seco, mulungu, bitter melon,

clavillia,

clavillia,

vassourinha, gervao

velvet bean, jergon sacha, cat’s claw, bitter melon, macela, mullaca,

vassourinha

Muscle Aches

scarlet bush (topical), copaiba (topical),

amor

seco, iporuru, cat’s claw, tayuya,

chuchuhuasi, kalanchoe, vassourinha, sarsaparilla, guaco, picao preto, gervao, abuta

Muscle Cramps/

amor

Spasms

graviola, macela, kalanchoe, erva tostao, fedegoso, gervao, quinine,

seco, abuta, vassourinha, manaca, iporuru, mulungu, embauba, passionflower,

mutamba, mullaca,

velvet bean, amargo, scarlet bush

Nausea and Vomiting

jurubeba, artichoke, gervao, guava, fedegoso, carqueja, kalanchoe, macela, mullaca, boldo

Nephritis

chanca piedra, erva tostao, cipo cabeludo,

sarsaparilla,

mutamba, mullaca, guava,

artichoke, abuta, picao preto, jatoba, damiana, jaborandi

Nervousness

See Anxiety

Neuralgia

manaca, sangre de grado, passionflower, mulungu, iporuru, tayuya, pau d’arco, macela, guaco, catuaba, gervao, muira puama, guarana, chuchuhuasi, cipo cabeludo, gervao, quinine, abuta, nettle

Neurologic Diseases,

mulungu, manaca, passionflower, velvet bean, damiana, muira puama,

General

samambaia, sangre de grado,

Neuromuscular

abuta, iporuru, tayuya,

Disorders

sarsaparilla, guaco,

Neuropathy

sangre de grado, chuchuhuasi,

Obesity

cha de bugre, guarana, picao preto, yerba mate, carqueja, jurubeba, stevia

Osteoarthritis

cat’s claw, tayuya,

amor

cat’s claw,

sarsaparilla,

guarana, catuaba, bitter melon

seco, passionflower, cat’s claw, chuchuhuasi, picao preto,

gervao cat’s claw,

iporuru, chuchuhuasi,

muira puama, annatto

amor

seco, picao preto, gervao, sarsaparilla,

guaco

Osteomyelitis

anamu, vassourinha, mullaca, simarouba, fedegoso, picao preto, gervao, bitter melon, macela,

cat’s

Brazilian peppertree,

amor

seco,

claw

See also Bacterial Infections, General Otitis

Media

Pancreatitis

See Ear Infections/Earaches boldo, jergon sacha, artichoke, samambaia, picao preto, mullaca, mutamba, anamu,

chanca piedra,

nettle,

epazote

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

107

Condition

Plants

Parasites, Skin

amargo, andiroba, balsam, mutamba, mulateiro, juazeiro, kalanchoe, epazote, bitter

In

Herbal Medicine

(In

order of preference)

melon, guaco

Parkinson’s Disease

velvet bean,

Peptic Ulcers

gervao, carqueja, espinheira santa, guacatonga,

embauba, mulungu, passionflower, manaca, pau

d’arco,

cat’s claw, bitter

suma

melon, epazote,

jurubeba, picao preto, copaiba, sangre de grado, boldo

Whooping Cough

Pertussis

See

Pharyngitis

guaco, sangre de grado, picao preto, scarlet bush, avenca, guava, pau d’arco, cat’s claw,

Pinworms Pityriasis

amor

seco,

macela, balsam

See Intestinal Parasites

Rosea

Pleurisy

See Dermatitis guaco, avenca, samambaia, copaiba, nettle, anamu, sarsaparilla, epazote, jaborandi

See also Bacterial Infections, General; Viral Infections

Pneumonia, bacterial (Streptococcus Klebsiella

&

pneumoniae)

embauba, mutamba, picao preto, kalanchoe, avenca, guava, pau d’arco, erva tostao, macela, fedegoso, Brazilian peppertree, mullaca,

cat’s claw,

guaco, simarouba, gervao,

samambaia

Pneumonia, fungal

embauba, jatoba, pau d’arco, kalanchoe, anamu, fedegoso, picao preto, guava,

(Pneumocystis

peppertree, mutamba, copaiba, sarsaparilla, scarlet bush

carinii)

Brazilian

Pneumonia, mycoplasmal (Mycoplasma pneumonia)

mullaca, macela, anamu, Brazilian peppertree,

Pneumonia,

jergon sacha, vassourinha, mutamba, mullaca, anamu, macela, bitter melon, sangre de

viral

clavillia,

fedegoso,

embauba

embauba

(several strains)

grado, pau d’arco, picao preto,

Poison Ivy

sangre de grado (topical), andiroba (topical), gervao, guaco, nettle, picao preto, pau d’arco

Premenstrual

damiana, manaca, mulungu, muira puama, suma, sarsaparilla, passionflower,

Syndrome (PMS)

guarana

Prostatitis

jatoba, nettle, cipo cabeludo,

mutamba, pau

d’arco, Brazilian peppertree, chanca piedra,

curare, artichoke, cat’s claw

samambaia, pau d’arco, fedegoso,

Psoriasis

sarsaparilla, cat’s claw,

melon, cashew, jaborandi, andiroba

Respiratory Disorders,

General

(topical),

suma, mullaca, boldo, bitter

copaiba (topical)

embauba, guaco, kalanchoe, avenca, vassourinha, samambaia, amor seco, Brazilian peppertree, jatoba, balsam, anamu, pau d’arco, picao preto, gervao, mutamba, guava, espinheira santa, sarsaparilla, nettle, epazote, jergon sacha, juazeiro

Rheumatism

cat’s claw,

iporuru, chuchuhuasi, embauba, picao preto, tayuya, gervao, vassourinha,

mulungu, abuta, guaco, manaca,

sarsaparilla, nettle,

amor

seco, samambaia, fedegoso,

pau d’arco, scarlet bush, anamu, kalanchoe, suma, cipo cabeludo

Rheumatoid

Arthritis

See

Autoimmune

Disorders

The Healing Power of

108

Used

Condition

Plants

Rhinitis

See Allergies

Ringworm

jatoba, fedegoso, sangre

peppertree,

Rosacea

Herbal Medicine

in

clavillia,

(in

Rainforest Herbs

order of preference)

de grade, copaiba, pau d’arco, anamu, balsam,

Brazilian

epazote, bitter melon, chanca piedra, velvet bean

mullaca, samambaia, pau d’arco, cat’s claw, sarsaparilla, suma, pata de vaca, boldo,

fedegoso

Salivary Gland Disorders

jaborandi, espinheira santa, amargo, picao preto, Brazilian peppertree

Salmonella Infections

simarouba, guava, embauba, bitter melon, erva tostao, macela, picao preto, abuta, guarana

Sarcoidosis

samambaia, embauba, graviola See also

Scabies

Autoimmune

Disorders

amargo, bitter melon, andiroba, balsam, mutamba, fedegoso, pau d’arco, guava, scarlet bush, jergon sacha, mulateiro, copaiba, kalanchoe,

amor seco

Scars

sangre de grado, andiroba, copaiba, samambaia, sarsaparilla

Schistosomiasis

pau d’arco, cipo cabeludo, macela, graviola (seeds), bitter melon, epazote, cashew, jatoba, guacatonga, pata

de vaca, copaiba

Sciatica

tayuya, manaca, iporuru, mulungu, pau d’arco, quinine, kalanchoe, muira

Scleroderma

See

Sclerosis

picao preto, erva tostao, avenca, cat’s claw, balsam

Scrofula

mullaca, anamu,

Autoimmune

puama

Disorders

clavillia,

macela, fedegoso, Brazilian peppertree, amargo, sarsaparilla,

samambaia, manaca, cashew, tayuya

Seborrhea

copaiba, juazeiro, guarana, mulateiro, sarsaparilla, andiroba, tayuya, samambaia, bitter

melon

Seizures

amor

Senility

See

Sepsis

See Bacterial Infections, General

Sexual Dysfunction,

clavo huasca, catuaba, abuta, damiana, suma, chuchuhuasi, velvet bean, maca, sarsaparilla,

Female

vassourinha, simarouba

Sexual Dysfunction,

muira puama, catuaba,

Male

maca, amor seco, macela, cashew

Shingles

See

Sickle Cell

Anemia

Sinusitis

seco, mulungu, manaca, passionflower

Memory

Disorders

nettle, velvet bean, sarsaparilla,

mutamba, iporuru, damiana,

Herpes Zoster

suma

amor

seco, nettle, kalanchoe, gervao, guaco, carqueja, jatoba, pau d’arco, picao preto,

yerba mate, bitter melon,

cat’s claw,

samambaia

Skin Rash

See Dermatitis

Sleep Disorders

manaca, mulungu, kalanchoe, passionflower, vassourinha, graviola

Herbal Treatment of Specific Diseases and Disorders

Used

109

Condition

Plants

Snakebite

jergon sacha, guaco, guacatonga, picao preto, tayuya, velvet bean, annatto, amargo, curare

Sore Throat

guaco, guava, sangre de grade, vassourinha, copaiba, picao preto, scarlet bush,

Herbal Medicine

in

(in

order of preference)

samambaia, carqueja, fedegoso, cashew, abuta, pau d’arco, andiroba, juazeiro, kalanchoe, epazote, balsam

Bowel Syndrome

Spastic Colon

See Irritable

Spleen Disorders

erva tostao, mulungu, carqueja, jurubeba, nettle, tayuya, avenca, artichoke, bitter

melon, graviola, quinine

Sprains and Strains

tayuya, iporuru,

embauba, manaca, abuta, amor seco, mulungu,

cat’s claw,

chuchuhuasi,

vassourinha, kalanchoe, cipo cabeludo, pau d’arco, amargo, gervao, sarsaparilla, scarlet

bush

(topical),

copaiba (topical), macela (topical)

Staphylococcus

mutamba, mullaca, anamu, macela, copaiba, erva tostao,

Infections

Brazilian peppertree,

bitter

melon, guava, avenca,

pau d’arco, kalanchoe, mulungu, annatto, chanca piedra

See also Bacterial Infections, General

Stomach Ulcers

See Helicobacter pylori

Strep Throat

mutamba, mullaca, gervao, copaiba, gervao,

Stress

manaca, catuaba, mulungu, passionflower, damiana, muira puama, kalanchoe

Stretch Marks

andiroba

Sunburn

samambaia,

Sunstroke

See

Syphilis

mutamba,

(topical),

Stomach

Ulcers; Peptic Ulcers bitter

melon, pau d’arco, guaco, kalanchoe

copaiba (topical), sangre de grado (topical), brazil nut

cat’s claw,

(oil),

samambaia

gervao, guaco

Heat Stroke sarsaparilla,

manaca,

clavillia,

pau d’arco, boldo, Brazilian peppertree,

samambaia, copaiba, cashew, vassourinha, guaco, scarlet bush, gervao, abuta, damiana, tayuya, guacatonga, nettle, chanca piedra, velvet bean, pata de vaca, catuaba, jaborandi

Testicular Inflammation

abuta, curare

Tetanus

fedegoso, guaco, copaiba, andiroba, passionflower, annatto, curare, anamu,

clavillia

See also Bacterial Infections, General

Thrush

See Candida; Fungal Infections

Tick Bites

See Insect Bites and Stings

Tonsillitis

mutamba, picao preto, mullaca, carqueja, cashew, copaiba, guaco, anamu, peppertree, fedegoso, gervao, sangre de grado,

Trichomonas Tuberculosis

Brazilian

clavillia

guaco, anamu, epazote, simarouba, amargo, fedegoso picao preto, anamu, fedegoso, Brazilian peppertree,

amor

seco, bitter melon, pau

d’arco, sarsaparilla, kalanchoe, jatoba, manaca, copaiba, balsam, chanca piedra, velvet

bean, acerola

Ulcerative Colitis

sangre de grado,

cat’s claw,

pau d’arco, simarouba

macela, picao preto, boldo, sarsaparilla, fedegoso, guaco,

I

The Healing Power of

10

Used

Herbal Medicine

Rainforest Herbs

order of preference)

Condition

Plants

Ulcers

See Helicobacter pylori

Urinary Tract Infections

chanca piedra, anamu, jatoba, nettle, boldo, cipo cabeludo, copaiba, fedegoso, Brazilian

in

(in

Stomach

Ulcers; Peptic Ulcers

peppertree, epazote, curare, vassourinha,

amor

seco, espinheira santa, picao preto,

abuta, annatto, pau d’arco

Urticaria

See Hives

Uterine Diseases

abuta,

amor

seco, anamu, Brazilian peppertree, cipo cabeludo,

clavillia,

curare,

fedegoso, guaco, jatobl pau d’arco, sarsaparilla, picao preto

Uterine Fibroids Vaginal Diseases

abuta, graviola, (Infection,

mutamba,

jatoba, pau d’arco,

cat’s claw,

chuchuhuasi, simarouba, Brazilian peppertree

anamu, amor seco,

clavillia,

abuta, curare, annatto, Brazilian pepper-

de grado, cashew, picao preto, bitter melon, sarsaparilla

vaginitis leucorrhea, etc.)

tree, guava, fedegoso, sangre

Varicose Veins

cat’s claw, acerola,

Vasculitis

gervao, guaco,

Viral Infections

jergon sacha, mullaca, sangre de grado, anamu, chanca piedra, macela, bitter melon,

andiroba (topical), camu-camu

cat’s

claw

pau d’arco, vassourinha, mutamba, kalanchoe, amargo,

clavillia,

erva tostao, picao

preto, simarouba, carqueja, catuaba, cha de bugre, iporuru, stevia, cat’s claw, Brazilian

peppertree

Autoimmune

Disorders

Vitiligo

See

Warts

aveioz (topical), sangre de grado (topical), copaiba (topical), bitter melon, embauba, clavillia,

mullaca, vassourinha, pau d’arco, macela, jergon sacha, Brazilian peppertree,

chanca piedra, sarsaparilla

Whooping Cough

jergon sacha, embauba, samambaia, kalanchoe, avenca, mulungu, guaco, guava, passionflower, mulungu

See also Bacterial Infections, General

Women’s

Health,

abuta, catuaba, clavo huasca, chuchuhuasi, damiana, suma, sarsaparilla, vassourinha,

General

erva tostao,

Wounds

See Cuts and

Yeast Infections

See Candida

Yellow Fever

amargo, jergon sacha, simarouba, mullaca, mutamba, gervao, anamu, vassourinha,

cat’s

claw

Wounds

chanca piedra, bitter melon, manaca, kalanchoe, scarlet bush, juazeiro

CHAPTER 7

Plant Data

Summary

his chapter provides a concise

overview of the seventy-three

forest plants detailed in the book. Table 7.1 highlights

rain-

each botani-

main actions and uses, indicates which properties have been documented by research or traditional use, and lists any applicable cautions. Since this chapter provides only a summary, it is still important for the reader to read the comprehensive information given in Part Three. The summary can, however, guide the reader as to which plants he or she may cal's

be interested

in

exploring in greater detail.

I

The Healing Power of

12

TABLE

Plant

Abuta

7.1

Summary

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

of Rainforest Plants

order)

Main Uses for menstrual problems (pain, cramps,

decoction or

antispasmodic, antihemorrhagic

•

capsules

(reduces bleeding), muscle

excessive bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis)

(Cissampelos

relaxant, uterine relaxant,

•

pareira)

hypotensive (lowers blood

menopausal

pressure)

premenstrual syndrome, childbirth)

vine

wood

•

as a female tonic

(hormonal balancing,

libido loss,

hormonal acne,

for heart problems (irregular heartbeat,

high blood pressure, heart tonic) •

as a general antispasmodic

and muscle

relaxer (asthma, stomach cramps, muscle pain/strains, irritable

bowel syndrome

[IBS],

diverticulitis) •

for kidney support (kidney stones, kidney/

urinary infections and pain)

Acerola

fruit

juice

(Malpighia

C content vitamin C content)

natural high vitamin

antioxidant, nutritive,

•

for

astringent, antifungal

•

for colds/flu (for

•

for skin care/anti-aging (for

glabra)

its

its

its

antioxidant

and vitamin content) •

as an overall health tonic (tones, balances,

strengthens)

Amargo bark

infusion or

antiparasitic, pediculicide (kills

(Quassia

capsules

lice),

amara)

digestive stimulant, bitter

digestive aid, liver bile stimulant, antilithic

(prevents kidney

stones)

•

as a heart tonic (tones, balances, strengthens)

•

for lice and skin parasites

•

for intestinal parasites and amebic infections

•

for malaria

•

for digestive problems (ulcers, dyspepsia,

intestinal gas

and bloating, sluggish digestion,

anorexia) •

as a liver/gallbladder aid to increase bile

and eliminate toxins and stones

Amor

Seco

whole herb (Desmodium adscendens)

infusion or

anti-asthmatic, antispasmodic,

•

for asthma and allergies

capsules

bronchodilator, muscle relaxer,

•

for respiratory problems (bronchitis,

antihistamine

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

[COPD], emphysema, excessive phlegm/mucus) •

as a general antispasmodic, muscle relaxant,

and pain-reliever for

bowel cramping, pain, injuries •

colic,

stomach and

arthritis, muscle/joint aches,

and spasms

for menstrual disorders (cramps, excessive

bleeding, pain, vaginal discharge) •

for convulsions (allergic reactions, epilepsy)

Plant

Data Summary

13

I

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

antibacterial, antihistamine,

analgesic (pain-reliever), antihemorrhagic

It

anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,

(reduces bleeding), antiseptic, aphrodisiac,

and

antispasmodic, diuretic, hypotensive

cardiotonic, diaphoretic (promotes sweating),

in

(lowers blood pressure), muscle

expectorant, febrifuge (lowers fever), hepato-

potentiate medications

relaxant, uterine relaxant

protective (liver protector), stimulant, tonic

used to treat hypertension.

relaxes the uterus is

contraindicated

pregnancy.

It

may

also

(tones, balances, strengthens)

antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

High dosages of vitamin

astringent, cardiotonic

may cause

antioxidant

diarrhea.

amebicide, analgesic (pain-reliever),

antibacterial, antilithic (prevents kidney stones),

It

anticancerous, antileukemic, anti-

antispasmodic, antivenin, carminative (expels

Large amounts might

malarial, antiparasitic,

antitumorous,

gas), digestive stimulant, febrifuge

(reduces fever),

protector), hepatotonic

antiulcerous, antiviral, bitter,

hepatoprotective

gastroprotective, insecticide,

(tones, balances, strengthens liver functions),

larvicide,

muscle relaxant,

pediculicide

(kills lice),

sedative

hypoglycemic,

(liver

liver

and gallbladder

sialogogue (increases

saliva),

interferes with

irritation.

tonic (tones,

worms)

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

antidiuretic, antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding),

anaphylactic (stops allergic reactions),

anti-inflammatory, blood cleanser, central

anti-asthmatic, anticonvulsant,

nervous system (CNS) tonic (tones, balances,

antihistamine, antispasmodic,

strengthens), contraceptive, cough suppressant,

bronchodilator, muscle relaxant,

digestive stimulant, lactagogue

potassium maxi-K inhibitor

milk flow), laxative, nervine (balancing/calming

(promotes

nerves), vermifuge (expels worms),

wound

healer

fertility.

cause nausea and stomach

bile stimulant,

balances, strengthens), vermifuge (expels

C

none

I

The Healing Power of

14

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Main Uses

order)

Anamu

capsules or

anticancerous, antiviral,

•

for cancer and leukemia

whole herb

infusion

anticandidal, antibacterial,

•

for

immune

function and

(Petiveria

Rainforest Herbs

stimulant

alliacea)

immune

immune

disorders (to stimulate

immune

cell

production)

and viruses

•

for colds,

•

for Candida and other yeast infections

•

for urinary tract infections

flu,

Andiroba

cold pressed

analgesic (pain-reliever),

•

for insect bites and stings

seed

oil

anti-inflammatory, insect

•

as an insect repellant

(Carapa

repellant, antitumorous,

•

for psoriasis, dermatitis, heat rash, skin

guianensis)

wound

fungi,

oil

healer

and other skin problems

•

for skin parasites

•

for skin cancer

antimicrobial, diuretic, digestive

•

as a topical antiseptic for ear, eye,

leaves (Bixa

stimulant, hepatoprotective

skin infections

Orellana)

(liver

Annatto

infusion

protector), hypocholes-

terolemic (lowers cholesterol)

Annatto

maceration

antioxidant, hepatoprotective

seeds (Bixa

or capsules

(liver

Orellana)

protector), insect

•

and

for digestive problems (heartburn,

constipation, stomachache) •

for prostate and urinary infections

•

for hypertension

•

for high cholesterol levels

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen liver

function and for hepatitis and liver

repellant, diuretic, hypocholes-

inflammation/pain

terolemic (lowers cholesterol)

•

for high cholesterol

•

for skin care and skin anti-aging (for

its

antioxidant and ultraviolet ray [UV]-

protective effect)

Artichoke

fluid

leaves (Cynara

or tincture

extract

scolymus)

liver

and gallbladder

bile

stimulant, hepatoprotective

•

as a strong diuretic

•

for high blood pressure

•

for gallstones and as a liver and

gallbladder bile stimulant

protector), antihepato-

•

for high cholesterol

toxic (liver detoxifier), hypo-

•

for digestive disorders

cholesterolemic (lowers

•

for irritable

cholesterol)

disease, and other

(liver

Aveioz latex

cold maceration

tumor promoter,

(Euphorbia

or undiluted

immune

tirucalli)

latex

caustic

carcinogenic,

suppressant,

irritant,

•

bowel syndrome, Crohn’s bowel problems

for warts (topically applied)

Plant

Data Summary

I

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

abortive, analgesic (pain-reliever),

anti-anxiety, antioxidant, anti-rheumatic,

It

antibacterial, anticancerous,

antispasmodic, diaphoretic (promotes

hypoglycemic

anticandidal, antifungal, anti-

sweating), diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever),

inflammatory, antileukemic,

insecticide, menstrual stimulant, sedative,

antiprotozoal, antitumorous,

vermifuge (expels worms)

antiviral,

COX

15

Cautions has abortive and effects.

inhibitor (linked

to inflammation), hypoglycemic,

immune

stimulant, uterine stimulant

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

antiseptic, balsamic, emollient, febrifuge

anticancerous, anti-inflammatory,

(reduces fever), vermifuge (expels worms),

antimalarial, antiparasitic,

wound

none

healer

antitumorous, insect repellant

may potentiate

aldose reductase inhibitor (linked to

antacid, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aperient

It

diabetic complications), antibacterial,

(mild laxative), aphrodisiac, astringent, digestive

medications used to

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding),

stimulant, diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever),

treat hypertension.

antivenin

hypocholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol), hypotensive (lowers blood pressure),

wound

antioxidant, hepatoprotective (liver

protector), hyperglycemic,

also used as a food-coloring agent

healer

might raise blood sugar

expectorant, hypocholesterolemic (lowers

It

cholesterol), hypotensive (lowers blood

levels

pressure), insect repellant,

wound

healer

and may potentiate

medications used to treat hypertension.

antihepatotoxic (clears toxins liver),

antioxidant, liver and gallbladder

bile stimulator, (liver

in

hepatoprotective

protector), hepatotonic (tones,

balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypo-

astringent, blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones,

none

balances, strengthens the heart), detoxifier, digestive stimulant, diuretic, hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure), stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens)

cholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol) antimicrobial, carcinogenic, caustic,

emetic (induces vomiting), immune suppressant,

promoter

irritant,

tumor

laxative

It is

not recommended for

internal use.

It

may

trigger

latent Epstein-Barr infection

and promote tumor growth.

I

The Healing Power of

16

Plant

Avenca

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

for respiratory problems (coughs,

infusion or

cough suppressant,

•

tincture

decongestant, expectorant,

bronchitis, colds,

(Adiantum

menstrual stimulant,

mucus/phlegm)

capillus-veneris)

antimicrobial

•

for hair loss

•

for gallstones

•

for menstrual disorders (interruption or

leaves

and root

%%

flu,

pneumonia, excessive

absence of menstrual cycle)

Balsam

•

as a blood cleanser

and

liver detoxifier

filtered resin

emollient (soothes membranes),

•

for coughs and lung congestion

(Myroxylon

diluted

cough suppressant,

•

for skin rashes and

balsamum)

warm water

•

for head lice

•

for skin parasites and

•

for colds,

hypoglycemic, hypocholester-

•

for diabetes

Bitter

resin

melon

in

fruit juice

antiseptic,

anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic

flu,

wounds ringworm

and strep throat

fruit

and

olemic (lowers cholesterol),

•

for high cholesterol and triglyceride levels

fruit

seed

antibacterial, carminative

•

for

(expels gas), bitter

•

as a bitter digestive aid for intestinal gas,

(Momordica charantia)

Bitter

melon

leaves/stem

K pylori ulcers

bloating,

stomachache, and sluggish digestion

•

for intestinal parasites

decoction or

anticancerous, antiviral,

•

for cancer

capsules

antibacterial, digestive

•

for viral infections (HIV, herpes, Epstein-

stimulant, hypoglycemic

Barr, hepatitis, influenza,

(Momordica charantia)

•

and measles)

for bacterial infections (Staphylococcus,

Streptococcus, and Salmonella) •

as a bitter digestive aid (for dyspepsia

and sluggish digestion)

Boldo leaves (Peumus boldus)

infusion

tincture

or

liver

and gallbladder

bile

•

for diabetes

•

for gallstones and as a gallbladder stimulant

stimulant, digestive stimulant,

(to stimulate bile)

hepatoprotective

•

(liver

to tone, balance, and strengthen liver

protector), vermifuge (expels

function (increases liver bile and detoxifies

worms)

the •

liver)

for upper digestive tract disorders (ulcers,

sluggish digestion, lack of bile, dyspepsia) •

for

bowel disorders

(colitis,

leaky gut,

constipation, spastic colon, irritable bowel

syndrome •

[IBS])

for intestinal

worms and

liver flukes

Plant

Data Sumnnary

I

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

antibacterial, anticandidal, anti-

antioxidant, astringent, liver bile stimulator,

It

has been

blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

in

animals to have

strengthens the heart), cough suppressant,

contraceptive and anti-

decongestant, detoxifier, diaphoretic (promotes

fertility effects. It

sweating), diuretic, expectorant, hepatoprotective

lower blood sugar

contraceptive,

fertility, antiviral,

hypoglycemic

(liver

17

documented

may levels.

protector), hypocholesterolemic (lowers

cholesterol), hypoglycemic, hypotensive (lowers

blood pressure), menstrual stimulant, stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens), antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic

antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

wound

healer

cough suppressant,

expectorant

Some people

are allergic

or sensitive to the resin

and develop rashes or hives.

lowers blood sugar

abortive, antimicrobial, contraceptive,

antifungal, antiparasitic, antivenin, bitter,

It

hypocholesterolemic (lowers

cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

levels

cholesterol), hypoglycemic

heart), digestive stimulant, emetic (causes

and contraceptive

and has abortive effects.

vomiting), menstrual stimulator, purgative

(strong laxative), vermifuge (expels

antibacterial, anticancerous, antifertility,

antileukemic, antiprotozoal,

antitumorous,

immune

antiviral,

hypoglycemic,

worms)

may lower blood sugar

antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial,

It

antiparasitic, antiseptic, bitter, carminative

levels.

(expels gas), digestive stimulant, febrifuge

(reduces fever), hypotensive (lowers blood

stimulant

pressure), lactagogue (promotes milk flow),

menstrual stimulator, purgative, vermifuge (expels worms),

wound

healer

has abortive and blood-

abortive, anti-inflammatory, anti-

analgesic (pain-reliever), antihepatotoxic (liver

oxidant, antiparasitic, antispasmodic,

detoxifier),

digestive stimulant, diuretic, febrifuge

balances, strengthens the heart), carminative

cause birth defects. Don’t

(reduces fever), gastroprotective,

(expels gas), hepatotonic (tones, balances,

use while pregnant. Don’t

hepatoprotective

strengthens the

(liver

protector),

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypocholester-

olemic (lowers cholesterol),

and gallbladder

hypoglycemic,

liver

bile stimulant,

muscle relaxant,

platelet aggregation inhibitor, uterine

relaxant, vasorelaxant (relaxes blood vessels), vermifuge (expels

worms)

blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones,

liver), laxative,

stimulant

It

thinning effects and

may

exceed recommended dosages.

I

The Healing Power of

18

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Brazil nut

eaten as

(Bertholletia

a

food

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

nutritive, antioxidant.

•

as a nutritive

emollient

•

as an antioxidant (for

its

•

as an emollient (oil

used for the skin

excelsia)

and Brazilian

tincture or

antibacterial, anticandidal.

Peppertree bark or fruit

decoction

antifungal,

•

antihemorrhagic

is

selenium content)

hair)

as a

broad-spectrum antimicrobial and

antiseptic against bacterial, viral,

and

(reduces bleeding), cardiotonic

fungal infections

(Schinus

(tones, balances, strengthens

•

for Candida and yeast infections

moHe)

the heart)

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen heart

function and as a heart regulator for

arrhythmia and mild hypertension *

to stop bleeding and heal

internally

wounds

and externally

•

for Mycoplasmal infections

•

for

fruit (Myrciaria

•

for colds/flu (for

dubia)

•

for skin care/anti-aging (for

Camu-Camu

fruit juice

antioxidant, nutritive, astringent

its

C content vitamin C content)

natural high vitamin its

its

antioxidant,

mineral, and vitamin content)

Carqueja whole herb

tincture or

antacid, antiulcerous, digestive

•

capsules

stimulant, hepatotonic (tones,

enteritis, acid reflux,

(Baccharis

balances, strengthens the

disorders) and to slow digestion

genistelloides)

detoxifier

liver),

•

for digestive disorders (ulcers, gastro-

and ileocecal valve

to tone, balance, and strengthen liver

function (also to eliminate liver flukes, increase liver

from the •

and to remove toxins

liver)

for gallbladder disorders (stones, pain, lack

of •

bile,

action, toxin build-up)

bile, sluggish

as a detoxifier (blood, liver, gallbladder,

pancreas) •

for viral infections (stomach viruses, HIV,

herpes simplex)

Cashew

leaves

antiseptic, antidysenteric,

•

for diarrhea, dysentery, and colic

or bark

antibacterial, antiulcerous,

•

as an internal

(Anacardium

astringent

against bacterial infections

occidentalis)

decoction

and external antiseptic

stomach ulcers

•

for

•

for ear and eye infections

•

to stop bleeding and heal

(all

kinds)

wounds

Data Sumnnary

Plant

I

Properties/ Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

antioxidant

emollient,

wound

19

Cautions

healer

Brazil nuts can

cause an

allergic reaction in

some

people.

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

antidepressant, antihemorrhagic (reduces

It

anticancerous, anticandidal, antifungal,

bleeding), antiseptic, aperient (mild laxative),

effect (lowers

anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic,

astringent, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

pressure).

antitumorous,

strengthens the heart), digestive stimulant,

antiviral,

hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure),

wound

diuretic,

has a mild hypotensive

blood

menstrual stimulant, stimulant, tonic

healer

antioxidant (vitamin C)

nutritive

none

abortive, analgesic (pain-reliever),

antidiabetic, aperient (mild laxative), bitter

It

antacid, antihepatotoxic (liver detox-

digestive aid, blood cleanser, carminative

blood pressure) and

(expels gas), diaphoretic (promotes sweating),

hypoglycemic actions.

antiviral, digestive stimulant, gastro-

diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever), tonic

It

tonic (tones, balances, strengthens

(tones, balances, strengthens), vermifuge

during pregnancy.

the gastric system), hepatoprotective

(expels

ifier),

(liver

anti-inflammatory, antiulcerous,

has hypotensive (lowers

should not be used

worms)

protector), hepatotonic

(tones, balances, strengthens the liver),

hypoglycemic, hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure), insect repellant, uterine stimulant

cough suppressant,

antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-

antidiabetic, antidysenteric,

inflammatory, antiulcerous,

decongestant, digestive stimulant, diuretic,

astringent

febrifuge (reduces fever), hypotensive (lowers

blood pressure), purgative (strong refrigerant (reduces

laxative),

body temperature), tonic

(tones, balances, strengthens),

wound

healer

none

The Healing Power of

120

Plant

Claw

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

order)

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

decoction,

immune

vine bark

fluid extract,

inflammatory, antimutagenic

therapy for cancer (to reduce side effects

(Uncaria

or capsules

(cellular protector),

of chemotherapy and protect cells)

anticancerous, antiulcerous

•

Cat’s

tomentosa)

stimulant, anti-

•

as an

as a

immune

stimulant and an adjunctive

bowel cleanser and anti-inflammatory

for Crohn’s disease, colitis, diverticulitis, irritable

bowel syndrome

(IBS),

and other

bowel problems •

as an anti-inflammatory for arthritis

(all

kinds) and muscle pains/strains/injuries •

as a general daily tonic (to tone, balance,

and strengthen •

for

all

body functions)

stomach ulcers and ulcerative

colitis

and as an ulcer preventative/stomach and

bowel protector

Catuaba bark

tincture or

aphrodisiac, nervine (balances/

•

(Erythroxlyum

decoction

calms nerves), anti-anxiety,

for males and females

central nervous system tonic

•

(tones, balances, strengthens

nervous system (and for nerve

the nervous system), antiviral

exhaustion, overstimulation)

catuaba)

•

as an aphrodisiac

and

libido stimulant

to tone, balance, and calm the central pain,

for nervousness, emotional stress, and

insomnia (related to overactive neurotransmitters) •

as a general tonic (tones, balances,

strengthens overall body functions) •

for

poor memory, Alzheimer’s

disease,

and dementia

Cha de bugre

appetite suppressant, diuretic,

•

for weight loss (as an appetite suppressant)

leaves (Cordia

stimulant, cardiotonic (tones,

•

as a mild diuretic

salicifolia)

balances, strengthens the

•

for cellulite

heart), antiviral

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen heart

infusion

function •

for herpes simplex

Plant

Data Summary

121

Properties/ Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

anticancerous, antidepressant,

analgesic (pain-reliever), anticoagulant (blood

Do

anti-inflammatory, antileukemic,

thinner), antidysenteric, blood cleanser,

after an organ

antimutagenic (cellular protector),

detoxifier, diuretic, gastrotonic (tones,

marrow

antioxidant, antitumorous, anti-

balances, strengthens the gastric system),

it

ulcerous, antiviral, contraceptive,

hypocholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol),

May

immune

tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

blood thinning

stimulant

body

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial, antiviral, vasodilator,

vasorelaxant

functions),

wound

not use before or

boosts

or bone

transplant since

immune

function.

also have a mild effect.

healer

anti-anxiety, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic (tones,

none

balances, strengthens the heart), central

nervous system tonic (tones, balances, strengthens), nervine (balances/calms nerves), tonic (tones, balances, strengthens)

anticancerous, antiviral, cardiotonic

appetite suppressant, cough suppressant,

It

(tones, balances, strengthens the

diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever),

occurring caffeine.

heart)

stimulant,

wound

healer

contains naturally

The Healing Power of

122

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Chanca Piedra

infusion

whole herb

fluid

or

Main Uses

order)

antilithic

Rainforest Herbs

(prevents and

•

for kidney stones and gallstones (active

eliminates kidney stones),

stones and as a preventative)

(Phyllanthus

hepatoprotective

•

niruri)

protector), diuretic, anti-

and protect the

hepatotoxic

liver

extract

(liver

(liver detoxifier),

•

antiviral

to tone, balance, strengthen, detoxify, (and to balance

enzymes)

for viruses, incFuding hepatitis A, B, and C,

herpes, and •

liver

HIV

to tone, balance, strengthen, detoxify, and

protect the kidneys and to reduce uric acid

and increase urination •

for hypertension and high cholesterol

levels

Chuchuhuasi bark (Maytenus

muscle relaxant,

tincture

anti-

inflammatory, analgesic (pain reliever),

krukovii)

menstrual stimulant,

•

as an analgesic, a

muscle relaxant, and an

anti-inflammatory for arthritis, rheumatism,

and back pain as an aphrodisiac for loss of libido (male

tonic (tones, balances,

•

strengthens overall body

and female)

functions)

•

to cool and balance adrenal function

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen female

hormonal systems and for menstrual disorders, libido loss, menstrual pain,

and cramps •

as a general tonic (tones, balances,

strengthens overall body functions) and mild

Cipo Cabeludo

infusion

vine/leaf

fluid

or

extract

immune

stimulant

for prostatitis, benign prostatic

analgesic (pain-reliever),

•

antibacterial, decongestant,

hypertrophy (BPH), and prostate pain

(Mikania

antilithic

hirsutissima)

eliminates kidney stones),

cystitis, nephritis, urethritis,

antileukemic

•

(prevents or

•

for urinary tract disorders (infections,

kidney stones)

as a pain-reliever for neuralgia, arthritis,

and general muscle pain •

as a decongestant to

mucus •

in

remove excessive

the bowel, urinary tract, and lungs

for leukemia

Plant

Data Sunnmary

123

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

anti-inflammatory, blood cleanser, carminative,

It

antihepatotoxic

detoxifier, diaphoretic

(liver detoxifier),

(prevents and eliminates

(promotes sweating),

may

increase the effect

of diabetic, high blood

febrifuge (reduces fever), laxative, menstrual

pressure, and diuretic

kidney stones), antimalarial, anti-

stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens

drugs. Don’t use during

mutagenic

overall

antilithic

(cellular protector),

antispasmodic, antiulcerous,

antiviral,

body systems), vermifuge (expels

pregnancy.

worms)

contraceptive, diuretic, gastrotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the gastric system), hepatoprotective (liver

protector), hepatotonic (tones,

balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypo-

cholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol),

hypoglycemic, hypotensive (lowers

blood pressure), uterine relaxant aldose reductase inhibitor (linked

adrenal tonic (tones, balances, strengthens

to diabetic complications), analgesic

the adrenals), antidysenteric, antispasmodic,

(pain-reliever), anticancerous, anti-

aphrodisiac, digestive stimulant, febrifuge

inflammatory, antioxidant,

(reduces fever), menstrual stimulant, tonic

antitumorous,

immune

protein kinase

C

stimulant,

inhibitor (linked

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

none

body

functions)

to inflammation processes)

antibacterial, anticoagulant,

analgesic (pain-reliever), antilithic (prevents

Contains coumarin and

antileukemic, molluscicidal

or eliminates kidney stones), anti-rheumatic,

might thin the blood

(kills snails)

blood cleanser, decongestant, diuretic,

and/or increase the effect

nervine (balances/calms nerves)

of Coumadin drugs.

The Healing Power of

124

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

broad-spectrum antimicrobial for

Clavillia

infusion or

antiviral, antibacterial,

•

whole herb

capsules

anticandidal, antifungal,

bacterial, fungal,

antispamodic

•

for Candida and yeast infections

•

as a

•

for skin problems (eczema, dermatitis, acne,

(Mirabilis

jalapa)

as a

and

viral infections

bowel cleanser and

laxative

rashes, liver spots, skin fungi, •

ringworm)

for vaginal discharge, infections, and

sexually transmitted diseases

Clavo Huasca

pre-menopausal

women

aphrodisiac, analgesic (pain

•

as an aphrodisiac for

vine bark

reliever), digestive stimulant,

•

for muscle pain and aches

(Tynanthus

febrifuge (reduces fever),

•

as a digestive aid to

panurensis)

stimulant

increase appetite, and expel intestinal gas

tincture

calm the stomach,

male aphrodisiac; for erectile function

•

as a

•

as a general tonic (tones, balances,

strengthens overall body functions)

Copaiba

resin

(Copaifera

cold-filtered

anti-inflammatory, analgesic

•

resin

(pain-reliever), anticancerous,

anti-inflammatory for wounds, rashes,

antimicrobial,

officinalis)

wound

healer

as a topical analgesic (pain-reliever)

and

dermatitis, bug bites, boils, and psoriasis •

as an antiseptic, disinfectant,

and

antimicrobial agent for internal and

external bacterial infections

Curare root

decoction

antibacterial, antiseptic,

wound

•

for nail and skin fungi

•

for skin cancer

•

for

•

for prostatitis

stomach ulcers and stomach cancer

(Chondrodendron

healer, anti-inflammatory,

•

for urinary tract infections

tomentosum)

febrifuge (reduces fever)

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen the kidneys

(also as a diuretic •

and for kidney stones)

for vaginal discharge and sexually

transmitted diseases

Damiana

leaf

(Turnera aphrodisiaca)

•

for testicular inflammation as a

male and female sexual stimulant used

infusion or

aphrodisiac, antidepressant,

•

capsules

central nervous system

to treat erectile dysfunction and anorgasmia

depressant, anti-anxiety, tonic

•

(tones, balances, strengthens

central nervous system and for emotional

overall

body functions)

to tone, balance, and strengthen the

stress, depression,

and anxiety

hormonal balancing

•

for general

•

for nervous stomach, colic, and dyspepsia

•

for

mood

disorders (obsessive compulsive

disorder, hypochondria, neurosis, paranoia, etc.)

Plant

Data Sunnmary

125

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

abortive, antibacterial, anticandidal,

antidysenteric, antiparasitic, carminative

Do

antifungal, antispasmodic, antiviral,

(expels gas), detoxifier, digestive stimulant,

pregnancy.

uterine stimulant

diuretic, purgative (strong laxative), tonic

body

(tones, balances, strengthens overall functions), vermifuge (expels

wound

none

not use during

worms),

healer

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-rheumatic,

none

aphrodisiac, carminative (expels gas), digestive stimulant, muscle relaxant, tonic

body

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

functions)

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

anesthetic, antacid, antiseptic, antiviral.

bacterial, anticancerous, antifungal,

astringent, carminative (expels gas),

anti-inflammatory, antitumorous,

suppressant, disinfectant, diuretic, emetic

antiulcerous, gastroprotective

(causes vomiting), emollient, expectorant,

(protects the gastric tract),

laxative, stimulant

wound

cough

It

may cause

like

rash

in

a measles-

those

allergic

to the resin.

healer

none

antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic. antilithic (to

prevent or eliminate kidney

Do

not use while

pregnant,

stones), diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever),

menstrual stimulant,

wound

healer

may reduce the

aphrodisiac, central nervous

anti-anxiety, antidepressant, antiseptic,

It

system depressant

antispasmodic, aperient (mild laxative).

absorption of iron.

astringent, bitter digestive stimulant,

cough

suppressant, diuretic, expectorant, hormonal,

nervine (balances/calms nerves), tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

body functions)

The Healing Power of

126

Plant

Embauba

leaf

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

infusion

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

cough suppressant,

anti-

asthma

•

for

for upper respiratory problems (coughs,

(Cecropia

asthmatic, decongestant,

•

peltata)

antispasmodic, cardiotonic

bronchitis,

(tones, balances, strengthens

sarcoidosis)

the heart)

•

COPD, emphysema, pulmonary

for upper respiratory bacterial and viral

infections

Epazote whole herb (Chenopodium

decoction or

antiparasitic,

capsules

worms),

vermifuge (expels

insecticidal, digestive

stimulant, hepatoprotective

ambrosioides)

(liver

•

for high blood pressure

•

for Parkinson’s disease

•

for intestinal

•

for skin parasites,

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen the

worms and lice,

parasites

and ringworm liver

(and for liver flukes and parasites)

protector)

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen the

stomach and bowel (and for intestinal gas,

acid reflux,

cramping, chronic

constipation, hemorrhoids, etc.) •

for coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and other

upper respiratory problems

Erva tostao root and leaf

decoction or

hepatotonic (tones, balances,

•

capsules

strengthens the

cirrhosis, anemia, flukes, detoxification,

liver), antilithic

for liver disorders (jaundice, hepatitis,

(Boerhaavia

(prevents or eliminates kidney

chemical

diffusa)

stones), hepatoprotective

•

(liver

protector), diuretic,

menstrual stimulant

injury, etc.)

for gallbladder disorders (stones, sluggish

function,

low

bile

production, emptying,

and detoxification) •

for kidney and urinary tract disorders

(stones, nephritis, urethritis, infections, renal insufficiency/injury, etc.) •

for menstrual disorders (pain, cramps,

excessive bleeding, uterine spasms, water retention) •

to tone, balance, and strengthen the

adrenals (and for adrenal exhaustion and

excess cortisol production)

Plant

Data Sunnnnary

127

Properties/ Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

ACE

anti-asthmatic, antihemorrhagic (reduces

It

blood pressure), analgesic (pain

bleeding), antiseptic, antivenin, antiviral,

of diabetic and high blood

reliever), antibacterial, antifungal,

astringent,

anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,

nervous system depressant, decongestant,

antispasmodic, cardiotonic (tones,

diaphoretic (promotes sweating), digestive

balances, strengthens the heart),

stimulant, expectorant, hepatotonic (tones,

diuretic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive

balances, strengthens the

(lowers blood pressure)

menstrual stimulant,

amebicide, antibacterial,

analgesic (pain-reliever), antacid, antihepatotoxic

anticancerous, antimalarial,

(liver detoxifier),

inhibitor (typically lowers

antiparasitic,

ascaricide

worms),

antitumorous, Ascaris parasitic

(kills

insecticidal, molluscicidal

(kills snails),

vermifuge (expels

worms)

Cautions

cough suppressant, central

may

increase the effect

pressure drugs.

liver), laxative,

wound

healer

anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial,

It

should not be used

during pregnancy or while

antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiulcer, carminative,

breastfeeding. Don’t use

contraceptive, diaphoretic (promotes sweating),

essential

oil internally.

digestive stimulant, diuretic, gastrototonic (tones,

balances, strengthens), hepatoprotective (liver

protector), lactagogue (promotes milk flow), laxative,

menstrual stimulant, nervine (balances/

calms nerves), sedative, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall body functions),

ACE

wound

healer

antihistamine, antilithic (prevents or eliminates

It is

blood pressure), analgesic (pain

kidney stones), aperient (mild laxative), blood

some

reliever), antiamebic, antibacterial,

cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens

has hypotensive (lowers

anticonvulsant, antihemorrhagic

the heart), carminative (expels gas), detoxifier,

blood pressure), cardiac

(reduces bleeding), anti-inflammatory,

digestive stimulant, kidney tonic (tones, balances,

depressant, and

strengthens the kidneys), lactagogue (promotes

inhibitor effects.

inhibitor (typically lowers

antispasmodic,

antiviral, liver

and

gallbladder bile stimulant, diuretic,

milk flow), menstrual stimulant, uterine stimulant,

hepatoprotective

vermifuge (expels worms)

(liver

protector),

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure),

modulator

(selectively

overactive

immune

immune

lowers

cells)

contraindicated

in

heart diseases;

ACE-

it

•,1

The Healing Power of

128

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

Espinheira

decoction or

anticancerous, antacid,

•

Santa leaf (Maytenus

capsules

antiulcerous, menstrual

adenocarcinoma, lymphoma, leukemia)

stimulant, detoxifier

•

for cancer (melanoma, carcinoma,

for

stomach disorders

(ulcers, acid reflux,

gastritis, dyspepsia, indigestion,

ilicifolia)

and to tone,

balance, and strengthen the gastric tract) •

as a menstrual

Simulant and for estrogen

hormonal balancing during menopause •

for adrenal exhaustion and to support

adrenal function •

for detoxification (skin, blood, kidney,

stomach, adrenals)

Fedegoso whole herb

infusion

antimicrobial, antihepatotoxic (liver detoxifier),

hepatotonic

(Cassia

(tones, balances, strengthens

occidentalis)

the

liver), antiparasitic,

immune

stimulant

•

broad-spectrum internal and external

as a

antimicrobial to treat bacterial and fungal infections •

for liver disorders (jaundice, hepatitis,

cirrhosis, anemia, detoxification, injury/ failure, bile stimulant, etc.) •

for intestinal

worms,

internal parasites,

skin parasites

immune

•

as an

•

as a cellular protector

to

stimulant

damage (immune,

cell

and a preventative liver,

kidney,

cancer preventative)

Gervao whole herb (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)

infusion

for allergies and respiratory conditions

antihistamine, bronchodilator,

•

anti-inflammatory, antacid,

(cold,

antiparasitic

•

flu,

asthma, bronchitis,

etc.)

for digestive problems (indigestion, acid

reflux, ulcers, constipation, dyspepsia,

slow

digestion) •

as a general pain-reliever

and

anti-

inflammatory for various internal/external painful •

inflammatory disorders

to tone, balance, strengthen, protect, and

detoxify the liver (and as a liver bile

stimulant and for chronic liver conditions) •

for intestinal

parasites

worms and

internal/external

Plant

Data Sunnmary

129

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

antacid, anticancerous,

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-asthmatic,

antileukemic, antitumorous,

anti-fertility,

antiulcerous, contraceptive,

astringent, blood cleanser, carminative (expels

estrogenic

gas), detoxifier, diuretic, gastrototonic (tones,

Cautions

anti-inflammatory, antiseptic,

Do

not use with estrogen-

positive cancers.

It

may

have estrogen-like actions.

balances, strengthens the gastric tract), laxative,

menstrual stimulant, sialogogue (increases saliva),

overall

tonic (tones, balances, strengthens

body functions)

antibacterial, antifungal, anti-

analgesic (pain-reliever), anticancerous,

It

hepatotoxic

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding), antiseptic,

of

(liver detoxifier),

may speed the clearance

some drugs

in

the liver

anti-inflammatory, antimalarial,

antiviral, astringent, bile stimulant,

antimutagenic (cellular protector),

cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

effect).

antioxidant, antiparasitic, antispas-

strengthens the heart), contraceptive,

hypotensive (lowers

modic, aperient (mild

detoxifier, diaphoretic

hepatoprotective

laxative),

(liver

protector),

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure),

immune

blood

(promotes sweating),

(thereby reducing their It is

mildly

blood pressure).

digestive stimulant, diuretic, febrifuge

(reduces fever), menstrual stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall functions), vermifuge (expels

body

worms)

stimulant, insecticidal, muscle relaxant,

weak

uterine stimulant,

vasoconstrictor

Avoid use when pregnant,

analgesic (pain-reliever), antacid,

abortive, amebicide, antiparasitic, antitumorous,

anti-anaphylactic (reduces allergic

bile

reactions), antidysenteric,

suppressant, central nervous system depressant,

to aspirin or have a

antihistamine, anti-inflammatory,

decongestant, diaphoretic (promotes sweating),

heart condition.

antioxidant, antispasmodic,

digestive stimulant, diuretic, expectorant,

antiulcerous, bronchodilator,

febrifuge (reduces fever), gastroprotective

gastrototonic (tones, balances,

(protects the gastric tract), hepatotonic (tones,

strengthens the gastric tract),

balances, strengthens the

hepatoprotective

(lowers blood pressure), lactagogue (promotes

larvicidal, laxative,

(liver

protector),

neurasthenic

(reduces nerve pain), vasodilator

stimulant

(liver),

blood cleanser, cough

liver),

hypotensive

milk flow), menstrual stimulant, nervine

(balances/calms nerves), refrigerant (lowers

body temperature),

sedative, tonic (tones,

balances, strengthens overall

vermifuge (expels worms),

body

wound

functions),

healer

or

if

you are

allergic

The Healing Power of

130

Mam

Preparation

Method

Plant

Rainforest Herbs

Main Actions (in

order)

Main Uses

Graviola

infusion or

anticancerous, antitumorous,

•

for cancer

leaf/stem/bark

capsules

antimicrobial, antiparasitic,

•

as a

(Annona

hypotensive (lowers blood

antimicrobial to treat bacterial and fungal

muricata)

pressure)

infections

(all

types)

broad-spectrum internal and external

worms

•

for internal parasites and

•

for high blood pressure

•

for depression, stress, and nervous

disorders

Guacatonga

infusion or

anticancerous, antitumorous,

•

leaf (Casearia

capsules

antiulcerous, antivenin,

adenocarcinoma)

anti-inflammatory

•

sylvestris)

for cancer (sarcoma, carcinoma, and

stomach disorders

for

indigestion, dyspepsia, •

stomachache)

as an antivenin for snake, spider,

and bee

and stings

bites •

(ulcers, acid reflux,

as a topical analgesic (pain-reliever)

and

anti-inflammatory for skin diseases, rashes,

and wounds

Guaco

blood purifier and general detoxifier

•

as a

for upper respiratory problems (coughs,

fluid extract,

cough suppressant,

•

(Mikania

syrup, or

bronchodilator,

bronchitis, colds/flu, asthma, allergies, etc.)

cordifolia,

decoction

expectorant, antimicrobial,

•

anti-inflammatory

and protozoal infections

leaf

M. glomerate)

for various internal and external bacterial

•

for Candida and yeast infections

•

for snakebite and insect bites and stings

•

as an analgesic (pain-reliever)

inflammatory for

arthritis,

intestinal inflammation,

and ulcers

infusion or

stimulant, antioxidant,

•

as a caffeine stimulant for

(Paullina

capsules

memory

•

as a

cupana)

anti-

rheumatism,

Guarana seed

enhancer, nervine

and

energy

weight loss aid (suppresses appetite

(balances/calms nerves),

and increases

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

•

for headaches and migraines

strengthens the heart)

•

to tone, balance, and strengthen the heart,

as a

burning)

blood cleanser, and to reduce/prevent

sticky blood •

fat

and blood clots

as a refrigerant (lowers

body temperature)

to prevent overheating and heat stroke

Plant

Data Sunnnnary

131

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

antibacterial, anticancerous,

antiviral,

anticonvulsant, antidepressant,

strengthens the heart), decongestant,

vasodilator,

antifungal, antimalarial, antimutagenic

digestive stimulant, febrifuge (reduces fever),

tensive (lowers blood

(cellular protector), antiparasitic,

nervine (balances/calms nerves), pediculicide

pressure) actions. Large

antispasmodic, antitumorous,

(kills lice),

Cautions

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

vermifuge (expels worms)

It

has cardiodepressant,

and hypo-

dosages can cause nausea

cardiodepressant, emetic (causes

and vomiting. Avoid

vomiting), hypotensive (lowers

combining with ATP-

blood pressure),

enhancers

insecticidal, sedative,

like

CoQiq.

uterine stimulant, vasodilator analgesic (pain-reliever), antacid,

anesthetic, antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding),

antibacterial, anticancerous,

antimutagenic (cellular protector), antiseptic,

antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

antiviral, astringent,

antitumorous, antiulcerous,

digestive stimulant,

none

blood cleanser, detoxifier,

wound

healer

antivenin, gastroprotective

(protects the gastric tract)

contains up to

anti-anaphylactic (reduces allergic

analgesic (pain-reliever), anesthetic, anti-

reactions), antibacterial, anticandidal,

asthmatic, anticancerous, antispasmodic,

10 percent coumarin

anticoagulant (blood thinner),

blood cleanser, diaphoretic (promotes

(coumadin), which has

antihistamine, anti-inflammatory,

sweating), febrifuge (reduces fever),

a blood-thinning effect.

antiprotozoal, antivenin,

vermifuge (expels worms),

wound

It

healer

bronchodilator, cough

suppressant, expectorant

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

antioxidant, hyperglycemic,

memory

or

anticoagulant (blood thinner), antiseptic,

Avoid

aphrodisiac, appetite suppressant, astringent,

sensitive to caffeine.

enhancer, nervine (balances/calms

blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

nerves), neurasthenic (reduces nerve

strengthens the heart), carminative (expels gas),

pain), platelet aggregation inhibitor

central nervous system stimulant, digestive

(to prevent clogged arteries),

stimulant, diuretic, hypotensive (lowers blood

stimulant, vasodilator

pressure), laxative, menstrual stimulant,

thermogenic (increases

fat

burning)

if

allergic

'^i!."^WP.>IMIlPlll>i| J Wl}^ Ml

J

i

The Healing Power of

132

Plant

Guava

t IMI.

leaf

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

decoction

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

for dysentery (bacterial and amebic),

antidysenteric, antiseptic,

•

(Psidium

antibacterial, antispasmodic,

diarrhea, colic, and infantile rotavirus enteritis

guajava)

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

•

strengthens the heart)

internal

as a

broad-spectrum antimicrobial for and external

candidal, and •

bacterial, fungal,

amebic infections

to tone, balance, protect, and strengthen

the heart (and for arrhythmia and

some

heart diseases) •

as a

cough suppressant, analgesic

(pain

reliever),

and febrifuge (reduces fever) for

colds,

sore throat, etc.

•

flu,

as a topical

remedy

for ear and eye

infections

Iporuru leaf

rheumatism

anti-inflammatory, analgesic

•

for arthritis and

and bark

(pain-reliever), antiviral,

•

as an internal

(Alchornea

antifungal, fertility aid

inflammatory and pain-reliever for muscle

infusion

and

castaneifolia)

and external

anti-

joint injuries

•

for fungal and viral infections

•

for erectile dysfunction and female fertility

diaphoretic (promotes

•

for

leaf

sweating), sialagogue

•

for detoxification through copious sweating

(Pilocarpus

(increases saliva), anti-

•

for dry

jaborandi)

glaucomic, diuretic,

•

for hair loss (applied topically)

febrifuge (reduces fever)

•

for colds,

Jaborandi

infusion

glaucoma

mouth disorders flu,

and pneumonia

Jatoba bark

tincture or

anticandidal, antifungal,

•

for Candida and yeast infections

(Hymenaea

decoction

antibacterial, stimulant,

•

for fungal infections (athlete’s foot,

cough suppressant

fungus, etc.)

courbaril)

nail

•

for prostatitis

•

for cystitis and urinary tract infections

•

as a natural stimulant

and energy tonic

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

body functions) cough

Jergon sacha root

cold maceration,

antiviral, antivenin,

capsules, or

suppressant, protease inhibitor

(Dracontium

tincture

(typically

loretense)

used for

viral

infections), anti-inflammatory

•

for snakebite

•

for viral infections (HIV, hepatitis,

whooping

cough, influenza, parvovirus, and others) •

for upper respiratory problems (cough.

bronchitis, asthma, etc.) •

for spider, bee, scorpion, and other

venomous •

insect bites

as a topical

wound

healer

Plant

Data Sumnnary

133

Properties/ Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

amebicide, analgesic (pain-reliever),

anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant, antiseptic,

It

antibacterial, anticandidal, anti-

astringent, blood cleanser, digestive stimulant,

effect

dysenteric, antifungal, antimalarial,

menstrual stimulant, nervine (balances/calms

indicated

antioxidant, antispasmodic,

nerves), vermifuge (expels

worms)

has a cardiac depressant

and

is

in

contra-

some

heart conditions.

antiulcerous, cardiodepressant,

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

strengthens the heart), central

nervous system depressant, cough suppressant, gastrototonic (tones, balances, strengthens the gastric tract),

hypotensive (lowers blood

pressure), sedative, vasoconstrictor

antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

antitumorous,

antiviral,

COX

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-arthritic,

none

antihistamine, anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic,

inhibitor (typically reduces

aphrodisiac, cough suppressant, fertility aid,

inflammation)

hypoglycemic,

diaphoretic (promotes sweating),

anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, cardiac

Use under practitioner

digestive stimulant, diuretic,

depressant, hypotensive (lowers blood

supervision only. See

sialagogue (increases saliva)

pressure), lactagogue (promotes milk flow),

contraindications

spasmogenic (induces spasms)

plant section.

antibacterial, anticandidal,

antidysenteric, antispasmodic, astringent,

It

antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

carminative (expels gas), cough suppressant,

effect: take

hepatoprotective

digestive stimulant, diuretic, purgative (strong

to avoid insomnia.

(liver

wound

healer

protector), molluscicidal

laxative), stimulant, tonic (tones, balances,

(kills snails)

strengthens overall body functions), vermifuge (expels worms),

none

wound

antiviral,

cough suppressant,

stimulant, larvicidal

diuretic,

immune

main

has a natural stimulant

healer

anticancerous, anti-inflammatory, antivenin,

in

none

before 6

pm

The Healing Power of

134

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

Juazeiro bark

decoction,

analgesic (pain-reliever),

•

as a topical

(Ziziphus

maceration,

antibacterial, anti-inflammatory,

•

as a

joazeiro)

or tincture

febrifuge (reduces fever),

and tooth extractions

astringent

•

for fevers

•

as a topical hair

%X

mouthwash

hair loss, •

wound-healer

(all

for cavities, gingivitis,

kinds)

remedy

for dandruff,

and seborrhea

for upper respiratory bacterial infections,

coughs, and bronchitis

Jurubeba

infusion or

leaf

fluid

to speed digestion and stimulate digestive

gastroprotective (protects

•

the gastric tract), digestive

function

(Solanum

stimulant, antiulcerous,

•

paniculatum)

carminative (expels gas)

bloating,

extract

to provide relief from sour stomach, gas,

and general dyspepsia

stomach ulcers

•

for

•

to tone, balance, strengthen, and protect

the •

liver

to tone, balance, and strengthen the

heart

Kalanchoe

infusion or

immunomodulator

leaf

fresh leaf juice

changes

(selectively

some immune

•

applied externally and taken internally for

all

types of pain and inflammation

(Kalanchoe

functions), central nervous

•

pinnata)

system depressant, analgesic

various bacterial,

(pain-reliever), antimicrobial,

•

for leishmaniasis

anti-inflammatory

•

for earaches (leaf juice

•

for upper respiratory infections,

applied externally and taken internally for viral,

and fungal infections

dropped

into ear) flu,

and

fever

Maca root

eaten fresh/

(Lepidum

dried,

meyenii)

in

or

capsules

as a natural source of nutrients

tonic (tones, balances,

•

strengthens overall body

acids, minerals, etc.)

functions), nutritive, fertility

•

to support endocrine function

enhancer, endocrine function

•

to reduce

support, anti-fatigue

and female)

fertility

(amino

problems (both male

•

to support erectile function

•

as an aphrodisiac

Plant

Data Summary

135

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

analgesic (pain-reliever),

antiulcerous, astringent, cardiotonic (tones,

none

antibacterial, anti-inflammatory,

balances, strengthens the heart), cavity

febrifuge (reduces fever),

prevention, cough suppressant, digestive

wound

stimulant, diuretic, hepatotonic (tones,

healer

balances, strengthens the liver)

analgesic (pain-reliever), antacid,

anti-inflammatory, antilithic (prevents or

It

antiulcerous, cardiotonic (tones,

eliminates kidney stones), antitumorous,

in

balances, strengthens the heart),

aperient (mild laxative), bile stimulant

hypotensive (lowers blood

digestive stimulant, gastroprotective

blood cleanser, carminative (expels

(protects the gastric tract), gastro-

decongestant, diuretic, febrifuge (reduces

effect

totonic (tones, balances, strengthens

fever), nervine (balances/calms nerves),

should be used with

the gastric tract), hepatotonic (tones,

tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

caution

balances, strengthens the

body functions)

heart condition.

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-allergic,

anticonvulsant, antilithic (prevents or eliminates

Avoid long-term use

anti-anaphylactic (reduces allergic

kidney stones), carminative (expels gas), cough

because of

reactions), antibacterial, antifungal,

suppressant, diuretic, hypocholesterolemic

suppressant

antihistamine, anti-inflammatory,

(lowers cholesterol), menstrual stimulant,

antitumorous, antiulcerous,

refrigerant (lowers

liver),

(liver),

gas),

might reduce

men.

It

fertility

has a mild

pressure) and stimulant

on the heart and

if

you have a

hypotensive (lowers blood pressure)

antiviral,

its

immune

effects.

body temperature), tonic body

central nervous system depressant,

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

febrifuge (reduces fever) gastro-

functions), uterine stimulant, vasoconstrictor,

protective (protects the gastric

wound

healer

immune modulator (modulates some overactive immune cells),

tract),

immunosuppressive (suppresses

some immune

cells), insecticidal,

muscle relaxant, sedative aphrodisiac, fertility enhancer,

increases

sperm count/motility

hormonal, immunostimulant, stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

functions)

body

Large amounts may cause intestinal gas.

The Healing Power of

136

Plant

Macela whole herb

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

infusion or

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

•

applied externally for pain and inflammation

tincture

bacterial, anti-inflammatory,

•

for respiratory problems (asthma,

(Achyrocline

antiviral, bile

stimulant

satureoides)

bronchitis, bacterial

flu,

and

and upper respiratory

viral infections)

•

for arteriosclerosis

•

for viral infections (hepatitis, HIV, herpes,

etc.)

Manaca

tincture or

sedative, analgesic (pain

root

decoction

reliever), central

nervous

(Brunfelsia

system depressant,

uniflora)

inflammatory, blood cleanser

anti-

•

for gallbladder and liver disorders

•

for arthritis and

rheumatism

and external) and general

(internal

painful

and

inflammatory conditions •

to cleanse and stimulate the lymphatic

system (and for swollen lymph glands)

Muira puama root and bark

tincture

•

to relieve menstrual pain and cramps

•

for colds,

•

for sexually transmitted diseases

aphrodisiac, tonic (balances,

•

for erectile dysfunction and impotency

strengthens overall body func-

•

as a

•

as a tonic (tones, balances, strengthens)

(Ptychopetalum

tions), neurasthenic

olacoides)

nerve

1

(reduces

pain), antidepressant,

flu,

and fevers

male aphrodisiac and

libido

promoter

for males

central nervous system tonic

•

for hair loss and balding

(tones, balances, strengthens

•

central nervous system tonic (tones,

the central nervous system)

balances, strengthens) and antidepressant

antifungal, anticandidal,

•

bark

astringent, insecticidal,

foot, nail fungus, etc.)

(Calycophyllum

wound

•

for skin parasites

•

for Candida and yeast infections

•

as a skin aid for wrinkles, scars, freckles,

Mulateiro

spruceanum)

decoction

healer

for fungal infections of the skin (athlete

and age spots •

for diabetes

s

Plant

Data Sumnnary

137

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

anticonvulsant, antiseptic, astringent, bitter

It

anticoagulant (blood thinner), anti-

digestive aid, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

and might increase the

inflammatory, antioxidant, antispas-

strengthens the heart), carminative (expels

effects of

modic, antitumorous,

gas),

antiviral, bile

cough suppressant, diaphoretic

Cautions has a sedative effect

other sedatives.

People with diabetes

stimulant, gastrototonic (tones,

(promotes sweating), digestive stimulant,

should use with caution

balances, strengthens the gastric

menstrual stimulant, muscle relaxant,

as

neurasthenic (reduces nerve pain), sedative,

hypoglycemic

tract),

hepatoprotective

(liver

protector), hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

it

has a mild effect.

vermifuge (expels worms)

liver),

hypoglycemic, immunostimulant, molluscicidal

(kills snails)

analgesic (pain-reliever), anticoagulant

abortive, anesthetic, antitumorous, antivenin,

Use with caution

(blood thinner), anti-inflammatory,

blood cleanser, diaphoretic (promotes

combination with

antimutagenic (cellular protector),

sweating), laxative, lymphatic stimulant,

inhibitors, sedatives,

antispasmodic, central nervous

menstrual stimulant, sedative

blood thinners. Avoid if

(reduces fever), insecticide,

salicylates.

temperature) adaptogen, analgesic (pain-reliever),

antidepressant, anti-rheumatic, anti-stress,

anti-fatigue, antiulcerous, aphrodisiac,

astringent, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

central nervous system tonic (tones,

strengthens the heart), digestive stimulant,

balances, strengthens), hypotensive

gastrototonic (tones, balances, strengthens

(lowers blood pressure), nervine

the gastric tract), hypocholesterolemic

(balances/calms nerves), neurasthenic

(lowers cholesterol), stimulant, tonic (tones,

(reduces nerve pain)

balances, strengthens overall

antibacterial, anticandidal, antifungal,

antidiabetic, antiparasitic, astringent, emollient,

antioxidant, insecticidal, insect

wound

repellant

Do

recommended

body

healer

MAO and

allergic to aspirin/

system depressant, febrifuge

refrigerant (lowers

in

none

body functions)

none

not exceed dosages.

The Healing Power of

138

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Main Uses

order)

Mullaca

infusion or

antibacterial, antimycoplasmal,

whole herb

capsules

anticancerous,

immuno-

modulator, antiviral

(Physalis

Rainforest Herbs

•

for bacterial and viral infections of

•

for cancer and leukemia

•

for

all

kinds

Mycoplasma and mycobacteria

infections

angulata)

•

for skin diseases (dermatitis, psoriasis, skin

infections, rosacea, scleroderma, etc.)

Mulungu bark and root

kinds

•

for viral infections of

for mental disorders (depression, anxiety,

all

tincture or

antidepressant, anti-anxiety,

•

decoction

sedative, nervine (balances/

stress, hysteria, panic disorders,

(Erythrina

calms nerves), hepatotonic

disorders, etc.)

mulungu)

(tones, balances, strengthens

•

the

and sleep disorders

liver)

•

as a sedative for insomnia, restlessness,

for liver disorders (hepatitis, obstructions,

high liver •

compulsive

enzyme

levels, sclerosis, etc.)

for high blood pressure and heart

palpitations •

for drug and nicotine withdrawal as a topical hair

remedy

Mutamba

decoction or

antibacterial, antiviral,

•

bark

capsules

antifungal, antioxidant,

and baldness

(Guazuma

hypotensive (lowers

•

ulmifolia)

blood pressure)

dysentery, and stomach inflammation •

as a digestive aid for

as an external skin

for hair loss

stomachache, diarrhea,

remedy

for

wounds,

rashes, skin parasites, dermatitis, fungal infections, •

and leprosy

for viral and bacterial infections (including

syphilis,

gonorrhea, upper respiratory

viruses,

and kidney infections)

•

as an astringent to stop bleeding

Nettle leaf

infusion or

anti-allergy, anti-anaphylactic,

•

for seasonal allergies, rhinitis, and sinusitis

and stem

capsules

anti-inflammatory,

•

for prostatitis

decongestant, diuretic

•

for arthritis, rheumatism, and other

(Urtica dioica)

inflammatory conditions •

for high blood pressure

•

for kidney and urinary tract infections

and inflammation

Plant

Data Summary

139

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

antibacterial, anticancerous,

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-asthmatic.

It

anticoagulant (blood thinner),

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding),

lower blood pressure.

antileukemic, antimycobacterial,

inflammatory, antiseptic, blood cleanser,

antispasmodic, antitumorous,

disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge

antiviral,

anti-

hypoglycemic, hypotensive (lowers

(reduces fever), hepatotonic (tones, balances,

blood pressure), immunomodulator

strengthens the

(modulates some overactive immune

(expels

cells),

liver),

may

thin the blood

and

sedative, vermifuge

worms)

immunostimulant

anti-anxiety, antibacterial,

analgesic (pain-reliever), anticonvulsant.

antidepressant, anti-inflammatory,

antiseptic, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

may lower blood pressure and may

antimycobacterial, anti-spasmodic,

strengthens the heart), central nervous

cause drowsiness.

hepatotonic (tones, balances,

system depressant, hypnotic, lactagogue

strengthens the

(promotes milk

liver),

hypotensive

(lowers blood pressure), sedative

It

flow), nervine (balances/

calms nerves), neurasthenic (reduces

nerve pain)

ACE

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding), anti-

Use with caution and

blood pressure), antibacterial,

inflammatory, antiulcerous, astringent, blood

under a doctor’s

anticancerous, antifungal, antioxidant,

cleanser,

antispasmodic, antitumorous,

diaphoretic (promotes sweating), digestive

inhibitor (typically lowers

antiviral,

cough suppressant, decongestant,

cardiac depressant, cardiotonic

stimulant, emollient, febrifuge (reduces fever),

(tones, balances, strengthens the

hepatoprotective

heart), hypoglycemic, hypotensive

(tones, balances, strengthens the liver),

(lowers blood pressure), muscle

wound

(liver

supervision

if

you have

a heart condition.

protector), hepatotonic

healer

relaxant, uterine stimulant

may lower blood

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-allergy,

anti-asthmatic, antibacterial, antidiabetic,

It

anti-anaphylatic, anticonvulsant,

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding),

pressure and heart rate.

antihistamine, anti-inflammatory,

rheumatic, astringent, blood cleanser,

Avoid chronic use due

decongestant, diuretic, hypotensive

diaphoretic (promotes sweating), febrifuge

to

(lowers blood pressure),

modulator

(selectively

overactive

immune

immuno-

modulates

cells)

anti-

(reduces fever), laxative, menstrual stimulant,

wound

healer

its

diuretic effects.

Rainforest Herbs

The Healing Power of

140

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Main Uses

order)

(BPH)

Nettle root

infusion or

anti-androgenic, blood cleanser,

•

for benign prostatic hyperplasia

(Urtica dioica)

capsules

hormonal

•

as a diuretic for kidney disorders,

hair

regulator, diuretic,

growth promoter

hypertension, and diabetes •

for male pattern baldness and hair loss

•

for high blood pressure

•

as a

blood cleanser and general

detoxification aid for

mood

disorders (depression, anxiety,

antidepressant, analgesic

•

leaf

(pain-reliever), antispasmodic,

stress)

(Passiflora

sedative, central nervous

•

for insomnia and sleep disorders

incarnata)

system depressant

•

for headaches, migraines, and general pain

•

for

Passionflower

infusion

stomach problems

stomach, indigestion, •

(colic,

nervous

etc.)

to relieve menstrual cramps and

premenstrual syndrome (PMS) antidiabetic, hypoglycemic,

•

for diabetes

leaf

diuretic, tonic (tones, balances,

•

for kidney and urinary disorders (including

(Bauhinia

strengthens overall body

polyuria, cystitis,

forficata)

functions), astringent

•

as a blood cleanser

•

applied topically for elephantiasis

•

for skin disorders (rashes, dermatitis, skin

PatadeVaca

infusion

and kidney stones) and to build blood

cells

ulcers, etc.)

Pau d’Arco bark

for Candida, yeast, and other fungal

decoction

anticandidal, antifungal,

•

or tincture

antiviral, antibacterial,

infections (taken internally and used as

anticancerous

a

douche or

•

for leukemia and cancer

•

for colds,

(Tabebuia impetiginosa)

bacterial •

flu,

and

and other upper-respiratory

viral infections

for sexually transmitted diseases (syphilis,

gonorrhea,

Hume

topically)

etc.)

•

for psoriasis and dermatitis

infusion or

antidiabetic, hypoglycemic,

•

for diabetes

capsules

aldose reductase inhibitor

•

as a preventative to diabetic

(Myrcia

(prevents diabetic

and macular degeneration

salicifolia)

complications), astringent,

•

hypotensive (lowers blood

(tones, balances, strengthens the heart)

pressure)

•

for enteritis, diarrhea, and dysentery

•

as an astringent to stop bleeding

Pedra

Caa

leaf

neuropathy

for hypertension and as a heart tonic

hemorrhages

and

Plant

Data Summary

141

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, blood

It

androgenic, cardiodepressant,

cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

pressure and heart rate,

diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever),

strengthens the heart), emollient, hepatotonic

Avoid chronic use due

hormonal

(tones, balances, strengthens the liver),

to

regulator, hypotensive

may lower blood

its

diuretic effects,

(lowers blood pressure), refrigerant

laxative,

(lowers body temperature), sedative

(reduces nerve pain)

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-anxiety,

anticonvulsant, antidepressant, astringent,

It

anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic,

cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens

or have a tranquilizing

aphrodisiac, central nervous system

the heart), disinfectant, nervine (balances/

effect.

depressant, cough suppressant,

calms nerves), neurasthenic (reduces nerve

diuretic, hypotensive (lowers

pain), tranquilizer,

menstrual stimulant, neurasthenic

may cause drowsiness

vermifuge (expels worms)

blood pressure), sedative

diuretic,

hypoglycemic

antidiabetic, antivenin, astringent,

blood

cleanser, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

body

functions), uterine relaxant,

vermifuge (expels worms)

(blood thinner),

Diabetics should use under a doctor’s supervision as insulin medications

may need

adjusting.

excessive amounts,

analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

anti-allergy, anticoagulant

anticancerous, anticandidal, antifungal,

antidysenteric, antioxidant, anti-rheumatic,

may cause

anti-inflammatory, antileukemic,

antiulcerous, antivenin, astringent, cardiotonic

upset or nausea.

antimalarial, antiparasitic, anti-

(tones, balances, strengthens the heart),

tumorous,

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens

antiviral, insecticidal

the

liver),

In

it

gastrointestinal

immunostimulant, laxative

may lower blood sugar

aldose reductase inhibitor, alpha-

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding), antioxidant,

It

glucosidase inhibitor, antidiabetic,

astringent, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

levels.

appetite suppressant, hypoglycemic

strengthens the heart), gastrototonic (tones,

in

balances, strengthens the gastric tract),

should monitor their

hypotensive (lowers blood pressure)

glucose levels closely.

It is

contraindicated

hypoglycemia. Diabetics

The Healing Power of

142

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

broad-spectrum antimicrobial for

Picao Preto

decoction

antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory,

•

whole herb

or capsules

hepatoprotective

various internal and external infections

(Bidens pilosa)

(liver

as a

protector), antiulcerous,

(caused by virus, bacteria, yeast, fungi)

antidiabetic

•

to tone, balance, strengthen, protect, and

detoxify the liver •

for arthritis, rheumatism, and other

inflammatory conditions

Quinine bark (Cinchona sp)

decoction

antimalarial, bitter digestive aid, antiparasitic,

antispasmodic,

febrifuge (reduces fever)

Samambaia

infusion or

immunomodulator

root and leaf

capsules

modulates overactive immune

(selectively

(Polypodium

cells), antipsoriatic,

decumanum)

protective (protects brain cells),

neuro-

cough suppressant,

anti-inflammatory

•

for diabetes

•

for

•

for malaria

•

as a bitter digestive aid to stimulate

stomach ulcers and digestive disorders

digestive juices

cramps

•

for nocturnal leg

•

for intestinal parasites and protozoa

•

for arrhythmia and other heart conditions

•

for psoriasis and other skin conditions

•

for Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and

memory problems •

for coughs, bronchitis, chest colds, and

other upper respiratory problems

autoimmune disorders

•

for

•

as a general tonic (tones, balances,

strengthens overall body functions), cellular protector,

and anti-aging

aid

Plant

Data Sumnnary

143

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

antibacterial, anticandidal, anti-

abortive, antidiabetic, antihemorrhagic

It

coagulant (blood thinner), antifungal,

(reduces bleeding), antiparasitic, antiseptic,

effects of antidiabetic,

antihepatotoxic

antispasmodic, astringent,

blood thinning, and high

(liver detoxifier),

bitter,

carminative,

anti-inflammatory, antileukemic,

cough suppressant, diaphoretic (promotes

antimalarial, antitumorous, anti-

sweating), diuretic, emollient, febrifuge

ulcerous, antivenin, antiviral, cardio-

(reduces fever), menstrual stimulant, stimulant,

tonic (tones, balances, strengthens

vermifuge (expels worms),

the heart),

COX

wound

may potentiate the

blood pressure drugs.

healer

inhibitor

(reduces inflammation), gastroprotective (protects gastric tract),

hepatoprotective

(liver

protector),

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the

liver),

hypoglycemic,

hypotensive (lowers blood pressure),

immunomodulator

(selectively

modulates overactive immune

cells),

uterine stimulant anti-arrhythmic, antimalarial,

amebicide, analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial,

It

antiparasitic, antiprotozoal,

antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, digestive

alkaloids that are toxic

stimulant, febrifuge (reduces fever), insecticide,

in

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

nervine (balances/calms nerves), neurasthenic

exceed recommended

strengthens the heart)

(reduces nerve pain)

dosages. See other

antispasmodic, bitter digestive

aid,

contains quinine

large doses.

Do

contraindications

not

in

main plant section. antidysenteric, anti-inflammatory,

anticancerous, aperient (mild laxative),

Do

antimutagenic (cellular protector),

blood cleanser, cough suppressant, detoxifier,

with

diaphoretic (promotes sweating), expectorant,

heart drugs.

antioxidant, antipsoriatic,

immuno-

modulator, neuroprotective

febrifuge (reduces fever), hypotensive (lowers

(protects brain cells)

blood pressure), tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall body functions)

not use digitalis

in

combination

and some

The Healing Power of

144

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Sangre de Grado

undiluted resin

resin

(in

{Croton

of juice/water) or

lechleri)

applied topically

is

taken internally small

amount

Main Uses

order)

wound

Rainforest Herbs

healer, antifungal,

to stop bleeding and to seal and heal

•

antiseptic, antiviral, anti-

wounds, burns,

hemorrhagic (reduces

•

bleeding)

and applied

cuts,

tooth extractions

for herpes virus ulcers (taken internally topically)

•

for skin fungi, rashes, and dermatitis

•

for insect bitei poison

or

and other itchy

allergic skin reactions

for

•

ivy,

stomach

ulcers, ulcerative colitis,

dysentery, and diarrhea for psoriasis, dermatitis, leprosy, and other

Sarsaparilla

capsules or

blood cleanser, immuno-

•

root

decoction

modulator

skin disorders

(selectively

(Smilax

reduces overactive immune

officinalis)

cells),

antimutagenic (cellular

protector), detoxifier, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall

body functions)

as a

•

blood purifier and general

detoxification aid as a general tonic (tones, balances,

•

strengthens), stimulant, and hormonal

regulator •

for arthritis, rheumatism, and

autoimmune

disorders which cause inflammation •

for syphilis and other sexually transmitted

diseases as a topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic

decoction

analgesic, anti-inflammatory.

•

or tincture

antiseptic, febrifuge (reduces

(pain-reliever)

(Hamelia

fever), refrigerant (reduces

(rashes, bites, stings, etc.) and for bruises,

patens)

body temperature)

strains,

Scarlet Bush leaf

and stem

•

remedy

for skin problems

muscle aches, sprains,

etc.

as a topical astringent, antiseptic,

antimicrobial

remedy

for

wounds,

and cuts,

burns, skin fungi, etc. •

for fevers and to lower

body temperature

(to prevent sunstroke, overheating) •

taken internally for inflammation

(rheumatism, •

arthritis, etc.)

taken internally for pain (headaches,

menstrual cramps, post-partum pain,

etc.)

Plant

Data Sunnmary

145

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

anesthetic, anti-allergic, anti-

analgesic (pain-reliever), anticancerous, anti-itch.

The red

bacterial, antidysenteric, antifungal,

antiulcerous, astringent, blood cleanser

clothes/fabric permanently.

antibacterial, antifungal, anti-

absorption

Excessive dosages can

inflammatory, antimutagenic

anticancerous, antioxidant, anti-rheumatic,

resin stains

antihemorrhagic (reduces bleeding), anti-inflammatory, antileukemic, antioxidant, antiseptic, antitumorous, antiviral,

nerve

neurasthenic (reduces

pain),

v^ound healer

(cellular protector),

blood

aid, analgesic (pain-reliever),

antiseptic, aphrodisiac, diaphoretic

(promotes

cleanser, detoxifier, diuretic,

sweating), digestive stimulant, febrifuge

hepatoprotective

(reduces fever), stimulant, tonic (tones,

(liver

immunomodulator

protector),

(selectively

balances, strengthens),

wound

cause gastrointestinal irritation.

healer

reduces overactive immune cells),

neuroprotective (protects

brain cells)

analgesic (pain-reliever), anesthetic,

antidysenteric, antihemorrhagic (reduces

antibacterial, antifungal, anti-

bleeding), antiparasitic, astringent, febrifuge

inflammatory, antitumorous,

(reduces fever), vermifuge (expels worms),

diuretic,

immunostimulant,

nervine (balances/calms nerves), refrigerant (lowers

temperature)

body

wound

healer

none

The Healing Power of

146

Plant

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

order)

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

Simarouba

decoction

antidysenteric, amebicide,

•

bark

or tincture

antiparasitic, antiviral,

diarrhea

(Simarouba

antihemorrhagic (reduces

•

for intestinal

amara)

bleeding)

•

for malaria

•

as an astringent to stop bleeding internally

for dysentery (amebic and bacterial) and

worms and

internal parasites

(stomach ulcers, hemorrhages, externally for

etc.)

and

wounds

•

for viral infections

sweetener

Stevia leaf

infusion or

sweetener, hypoglycemic,

•

as a natural

(Stevia

dry powder

hypotensive (lowers blood

•

for diabetes

rebaudiana)

extract

pressure), cardiotonic (tones,

•

for high blood pressure

balances, strengthens the

•

for cavity prevention

heart), antimicrobial

•

as a weight loss aid

decoction

adaptogen, tonic (tones,

•

as a general tonic (tones, balances,

or capsules

balances, strengthens),

strengthens) for balancing, energizing,

aphrodisiac, steroidal,

rejuvenating, and muscle

immunostimulant

•

Suma

root

(Pfafpa paniculata)

hormonal disorders (menopause,

for

PMS,

tayuya)

etc.)

•

for chronic fatigue and general tiredness

•

for sexual disorders (impotency, frigidity,

low

Tayuya root (Cayaponia

growth

libido, etc.)

•

for sickle cell anemia

to relieve pain of

infusion or

analgesic (pain-reliever),

•

capsules

nervine (balances/calms

migraines and headaches, stomachaches,

nerves), neurasthenic

menstrual pain,

(reduces nerve pain), anti-

•

inflammatory, detoxifier

(sciatica, neuralgia, multiple sclerosis.

all

types

(arthritis,

etc.)

for central nervous system disorders

epilepsy,

nerve

injuries, etc.)

and blood cleanser

•

as a general detoxifier

•

for acne, eczema, dermatitis, and other

skin •

problems

for emotional fatigue and depression

Plant

Data Summary

147

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

amebicide, antibacterial, anti-

analgesic (pain-reliever), antihemorrhagic

Large dosages might cause

cancerous, antidysenteric,

(reduces bleeding), astringent,

nausea and vomiting.

antileukemic, antimalarial,

carminative, diaphoretic (promotes

antimutagenic (cellular

sweating), digestive stimulant, febrifuge

protector), antiparasitic,

(reduces fever), menstrual stimulant, tonic

antitumorous,

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

antiviral,

bitter,

vermifuge (expels worms)

body functions)

antibacterial, anticandidal, antifungal,

tonic (tones, strengthens, balances overall

antiviral,

cardiotonic (tones,

body

functions), vasodilator,

wound

none

healer

balances, strengthens the heart), diuretic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive

(reduces blood pressure), sweetener

may have

estrogen-like

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

adaptogen, anti-allergy, antioxidant, cardiotonic

It

cancerous, anti-inflammatory,

(tones, balances, strengthens the heart),

effects.

antileukemic, antitumorous,

carminative (expels gas), estrogenic,

estrogen-positive cancers.

aphrodisiac, cellular protector,

immunostimulant, nervine (balances/calms

hypocholesterolemic (lowers

nerves), stimulant, tonic (tones, balances,

cholesterol), (selectively

immune

immunomodulator

strengthens overall body functions)

modulates overactive

cells),

steroidal

analgesic (pain-reliever),

anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anti-rheumatic,

anti-inflammatory, antioxidant

antisyphilitic, antiulcerous, antivenin, bitter,

blood cleanser, detoxifier, digestive stimulant, diuretic, laxative, nervine (balances/calms nerves),

neurasthenic (reduces nerve pain), sedative, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens overall functions)

body

none

Do

not use with

The Healing Power of

148

Plant

Vassourinha whole herb

Main Preparation

Main Actions

Method

(in

Rainforest Herbs

Main Uses

order)

for menstrual problems (pain, cramps,

infusion or

anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial,

•

capsules

analgesic (pain-reliever),

premenstrual syndrome [PMS], to promote

antispasmodic, anticancerous

and normalize menstruation)

(Scoparia dulcis)

•

for upper-respiratory bacterial and viral

infections •

to relieve

pairr

of

all

types

(arthritis,

migraines and headaches, stomachaches,

muscle •

pain, etc.)

to tone, balance, and strengthen heart

function (and for mild hypertension) •

for sexually transmitted diseases and

urinary tract infections

Velvet Bean

capsules or

anti-Parkinson’s, androgenic,

•

seed

standardized

aphrodisiac, hypoglycemic,

L-dopa)

(Mucuna

extract

anabolic

•

for impotency and erectile dysfunction

•

as an aphrodisiac

pruriens)

for Parkinson’s disease (contains natural

and to increase

testosterone •

as a

muscle builder and anabolic/androgenic

aid to stimulate

growth hormone

•

as a weight-loss aid

stimulant, tonic (tones,

•

as a stimulant (for

leaf (Ilex

balances, strengthens overall

•

as an overall tonic (tones, balances,

paraguariensis)

body

strengthens the body) and digestive aid

Yerba Mate

infusion

functions),

thermogenic

its

caffeine content)

for obesity and as part of weight loss

(increases fat-burning),

•

nervine (balances/calms

regimens

nerves), anti-allergy

•

as a general nervine (balances/calms

nerves) for nerve pain, nervous fatigue,

and depression •

for allergies and sinusitis

Plant

Data Sunnnnary

149

Properties/Actions

Other Properties/Actions

Documented by Research

Documented by Traditional Use

Cautions

analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-

abortive, antimalarial, antivenin, contraceptive,

Use with caution

bacterial, anticancerous, antifungal,

cough suppressant, decongestant,

combination with

anti-inflammatory, antileukemic,

emollient, expectorant, febrifuge (reduces

antispasmodic, antitumorous,

fever),

antiviral,

cardiotonic (tones, balances,

the

detoxifier,

hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens

liver), insecticide,

menstrual stimulant,

in

barbiturates and antidepressants.

hypoglycemic

It

has

effects.

body temperature), tonic

strengthens heart function),

refrigerant (lowers

central nervous system depressant,

(tones, balances, strengthens overall

diuretic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive

functions), vermifuge (expels

(lowers blood pressure), sedative

healer

anabolic, analgesic (pain-reliever),

antilithic

androgenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-

antiparasitic,

Parkinson’s, antispasmodic, antivenin,

(expels gas), central nervous system stimulant,

aphrodisiac, febrifuge (reduces fever),

cough suppressant,

hormonal, hypocholesterolemic

(lowers blood pressure), menstrual stimulant,

(lowers cholesterol), hypoglycemic,

uterine stimulant, vermifuge (expels

body

worms), wound

(prevents or eliminates kidney stones),

blood cleanser, carminative

diuretic, hypotensive

It

contains L-dopa and

has androgenic and

hypoglycemic

activity.

See further cautions in

next chapter.

contains natural caffeine.

worms)

immunomodulator, nervine (balances/ calms nerves), neurasthenic (reduces

nerve pain) anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,

anti-allergy, antidepressant, appetite suppressant,

It

antispasmodic, bile stimulant,

blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances,

Don’t use

stimulant, thermogenic

strengthens the heart), central nervous system

caffeine

(increases fat burning),

stimulant, digestive stimulant, hypotensive

vasodilator

(lowers blood pressure), nervine (balances/

calms nerves), neurasthenic (reduces nerve pain),

neuroprotective (protects brain

purgative (strong laxative)

cells),

if

allergic to

or zanthines.

L3BS

PART THREE

Medicinal Plants OF THE Amazon Three

/

is

a valuable resource to

more than seventy medicinal

alphaEach plant the Amazon plants found ^ the l^*‘betically and includes extensive information. This material rainforest.

in

is

listed

is

on both

result of years of research, focusing

scientific studies

and

tradi-

tional uses.

For quick reference, each entry

is

introduced by such important facts

as the plant's family, genus, species, other

main

actions,

and standard dosages.

common

names, parts used,

Illustrations of each plant are also

included.

For each plant, traditional uses by indigenous tribes and in herbal medicine

systems worldwide are detailed. Specifics regarding plant chemicals

are invaluable for professionals

and anyone interested

about the plants' possible biological readily accessible!) Clinical research

activities.

and

in learning

(Such data

is

more

not often so

summarized the plants by

scientific studies are

which help explain and validate the traditional uses of indigenous peoples. Practical uses, methods of preparation, contraindications, possible drug interactions, and documented uses according to region are also provided. Whether you absorb this entire section, or only focus on plants with specific properties. Part Three offers a wealth of essential information that will teach you what you need to know about each plant and

how

to

use

it

effectively

and

safely.

The Healing Power of

152

Rainforest Herbs

ABUTA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

Family:

Menispermaceae

Genus: Cissampelos

Common

Names:

abuta, abutua, barbasco,

imchich masha, butua, false pareira, pareira,

aristoloche lobee, bejuco

de raton,

feuille

coeur,

liane patte cheval,

gasing-gasing

Parts Used:

whole

seed, bark,

leaf,

Vine

bacteria

•

stops bleeding

•

kills

•

balances menstruation

•

prevents convulsions

•

relieves pain

•

fights free radicals

•

reduces spasms

•

prevents ulcers

•

relaxes muscles

•

reduces mucus

•

stops inflammation

•

reduces fever

•

increases urination

•

protects

liver

•

lowers blood pressure

•

balances

hormones

Abuta

is

a

woody, climbing

Wood

Decoction:

I

cup two or

three times daily Tincture: 2-3 ml

two or

three times daily Tablets/Capsules: 1-2 g or three times daily

rainforest vine with leaves

duces inedible, dark, grape-sized

which Species: pareira

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

berries.

It

up

to 30

cm long.

two

It

pro-

belongs to the genus Cissampelos, of

Abuta vine is blackish-brown and tough; when freshly cut it has a waxy luster. Abuta is found throughout the Amazon in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia, and it is cultivated by many to beautify their gardens. The common name of this plant has caused some confusion in herbal commerce today. In Brazil, this plant is well known as abutua, and in Peru it is thirty to forty species are represented in the tropics.

known apply diflora.

as abuta or barbasco. References to abuta in herbal

to either Cissampelos pareira or to a

Another

completely different plant, Abuta gran-

tropical vine, Abuta grandiflora, also has the

vine,

abuta in South America, but

root

cals

and uses

commerce today may

this is a

common name

of

very different plant with different chemi-

in herbal medicine. This plant is referred to in

Peru as

chiric sana-

go as well as abuta (hence the confusion).

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Abuta (Cissampelos pareira) is commonly referred to as the midzvives' herb throughout South America because of its long history of use for all types of women's ailments. The vine or root of abuta is used in tropical countries to prevent a threatened miscarriage and to stop uterine hemorrhages after childbirth. Midwives in the Amazon still carry abuta with them for menstrual cramps and pre- and post-natal pain, excessive menstrual bleeding, and uterine hemorrhaging. Abuta is also believed to aid poor digestion, drowsiness after meals, and constipation. Virtually

all

parts of the plant have been used by indigenous peoples

throughout the South American rainforest for thousands of years for other ments, and are

still

in

use today.

Members

Guyana use a Wayapi Indians use

of the Palikur tribe in

poultice of abuta leaves as a topical pain-reliever,

and the

ail-

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

153

a decoction of the leaf

use the

leaf

and stem as an

Ecuadorian Ketchwa

decoction for eye infections and snakebite. The Creoles in

soak the leaves, bark, and roots tribes in

oral analgesic.

in

rum and use it as an

tribes

Guyana

aphrodisiac. Indigenous

Peru use the seeds of abuta for snakebite, fevers, sexually transmitted

and expectorant. Amazonian herbal healers (called curanderos) toast the seeds of abuta and then brew them into a tea to treat internal hemorrhages and external bleeding. They also brew a leaf tea for rheumaand as

diseases,

a diuretic

tism and a vine wood-and-bark tea to treat irregular heartbeat and excessive

menstrual bleeding. Abuta

is

“midwives’ herb” as it is

used for many

women’s

In Brazil, abuta

called the

ailments.

and as

is

widely employed

in herbal

medicine today as a diuretic

a tonic (a general overall balancer), as well as to reduce fever

and

relieve

employed for menstrual cramps, difficult menstruation, excessive bleeding and uterine hemorrhages, fibroid tumors, pre- and post-natal pain, colic, constipation, poor digestion, and dyspepsia. In Mexico, abuta has a pain.

It is

often

long history of use for muscle inflammation, snakebite, rheumatism, diarrhea, dysentery, and menstrual problems.

North American herbal medicine, abuta is used for many of the same conditions as in South America as well as for inflammation of the testicles and In

minor kidney problems.

PLANT CHEMICALS

Cissampelos plants, including abuta, contain a group of plant chemicals called

isoquinoline alkaloids. Since the late 1960s, these chemicals have received a great deal of attention

covered ical

in abuta, the

and research.

Out

of thirty-eight alkaloids thus far dis-

one called tetrandrine

is

the most well documented. Clin-

research over the years has found tetrandrine to have pain-relieving,

anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing properties.^

More than one hundred

recent clinical studies also describe this chemical's promising actions against leukemia and some other cancer cells, and research is ongoing. However, the

therapeutic dosages of tetrandrine used in these animal studies are

much high-

one can reasonably obtain from natural abuta root or vine. (The average-weight person would need to take about 2 lbs. of abuta root each day to Other obtain the therapeutic dosage of tetrandrine used in the animal studies.) and recently published studies examined tetrandrine's possible cardioactive er than

blood pressure-reducing (hypotensive) effects through numerous pathways

Abuta contains cardioactive plant

chemicals that lower

blood pressure.

and mechanisms of action at much smaller dosages. Another well-known alkaloid chemical, berberine, has been documented to have hypotensive, antifungal, and antimicrobial actions. This chemical has been used for the treatment of irregular heartbeat, cancer, Candida, diarrhea, and irribowel syndrome.-^ Another alkaloid muscle relaxant drug in Ecuador.^

table tal

called cissampeline

is

sold as a skele-

The Healing Power of

154

The main chemicals ine,

in

Rainforest Herbs

abuta are alkaloids, arachidic acid, bebeerine, berber-

bulbocapnine, cissamine, cissampareine, corytuberine, curine, 4-methylcur-

ine, cyclanoline, cycleanine, dicentrine,

ium, essential

oil,

dehydrodicentrine, dimethyltetrandrin-

grandirubrine, hayatine, hayatinine, insularine, isochondo-

dendrine, isomerubrine, laudanosine, linoleic acid, magnoflorine, menismine, norimeluteine, nor-ruffscine, nuciferine, pareirine, pareirubrine alkaloids, pareitropone, quercitol, stearic acid,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

and tetrandrine.

In 1962, researchers reported abuta

demonstrated anti-inflammatory, smooth

muscle relaxant, antispasmodic, and uterine relaxant actions

in various labora-

tory animals.^ Subsequent studies with animals confirmed the plant's anti-

spasmodic ^and anti-inflammatory

These documented

actions.^

effects are quite

similar to abuta's traditional uses for menstrual disorders (including

and

pain). In other

ic effect, a Clinical

Other

research

documenting muscle relaxant, antispasmodic,

and uterine relaxant effects help explain

abuta’s long history of

use for menstrual difficulties.

animal studies, a root extract was reported

to

cramping

have

finding that confirms another of abuta's traditional medicine uses.^

in vivo

research on extracts of abuta indicated that the leaf has antiul-

cerous actions^® and that the root has a very mild hypoglycemic action dosages. Studies have also peutic uses:

shown

a diuret-

it

shown

high

that the abuta root has other possible thera-

demonstrated anticonvulsant actions

to significantly

at

in mice;^^ and, in dogs,

lower blood pressure.^'^ In addition, test-tube

it

was

{in vitro)

studies over the years have reported that abuta has antioxidant properties;^^^ antibacterial actions against Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Salmonella, siella;^^'^^^

and antimalarial

effects.^^'^^

One

ed that a root extract demonstrated a toxic

CURRENT

Abuta

is still

PRACTICAL USES

which

it

used

in the

Amazon and

and

Kleh-

of these in vitro studies also report-

colon cancer

effect against

same purposes childbirth aid and

outlying areas for the

has been used traditionally for centuries

—as a

cells.

for for

women's ailments. South and North American natural health practitioners commonly rely on abuta as an excellent natural remedy for menstrual difficulties, including cramping and pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), general

excessive bleeding, and fibroid tumors.

Its ability to

bleeding very quickly can be quite remarkable.

It is

female balancing formulas, in kidney formulas

muscle relaxant

effects),

curb excessive menstrual

employed in overall diuretic and smooth-

often

(for its

and, in combination with other plants, in heart tonics

and hypertension remedies. Toxicity studies with animals confirm the safety of the plant; rats given 10 g of abuta per kg of body weight evidenced no toxic effects.

Traditional

Preparation

In

South America, a standard decoction

wood and

is

generally prepared with the vine

taken two or three times daily in 1-cup doses.

(It

tastes quite horri-

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

ble,

for

155

however!) The natural remedy in North American herbal medicine systems menstrual

g of the powdered vine in tablets or or 2-3 ml of a standard tincture twice daily,

difficulties is generally 1-2

capsules two or three times daily, or as needed.

Contraindications

Abuta has been documented

two animal studies; therefore, abuta is probably contraindicated for people with low blood pressure. An alkaloid in abuta, tetrandrine, has been documented to have various actions on heart function in animals and humans. Those with a heart condition or takto

lower blood pressure

in

ing heart medications should consult with their doctor before using this plant.

Abuta has demonstrated

employed

to

as a childbirth aid.

be a uterine relaxant and has been traditionally

A pregnant woman should

use

it

only under the

supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Drug

Interactions

Abuta may potentiate prescription heart medications.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

for childbirth, colic, fever, muscle spasms and pain, nervous children, pinta, snakebite

Argentina

for diarrhea, menstrual disorders, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections

Brazil

for abortions, anemia, asthma, bladder problems, colic, congestion, constipation, contusions, cramps, cystitis, digestive

problems, detoxification (by inducing sweating), dysentery, dyspepsia, drowsiness, edema,

excessive phlegm and mucus, fever, gallbladder problems (to stimulate

bile), hepatitis,

inflammation,

kidney stones, menstrual disorders, muscle aches, pains and spasms, testicular inflammation, threatened miscarriage, pre-and post-natal pain, rheumatism, snakebite, stomach problems, urinary tract disorders,

uterine hemorrhages, water retention

Guatemala

for cramps, erysipelas, fever, menstrual disorders, rheumatism, snakebite, water retention, and to

increase perspiration

Mexico

for bladder problems, dermatitis, diarrhea, dysentery,

edema, excessive phlegm and mucus,

fever,

insect bites, jaundice, menstrual disorders, muscle inflammation, nephritis, pain, pimples, rheumatism,

snakebite, urogenital problems, vaginal discharge, water retention, and as a female balancing aid

Nicaragua

for bites, fever, skin rash, sores, stings, sexually transmitted diseases

United

for

States

hemorrhages and excessive bleeding, constipation, kidney stones, menstrual disorders, muscle spasms, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), testicular inflammation, urinary tract irritation, water retention

Venezuela

for bladder problems, kidney stones, snakebite, and as a diuretic

Elsewhere

for abortions, anemia,

arrow poisoning, asthma,

boil, childbirth,

diarrhea, dyspepsia, excessive phlegm and mucus,

constipation, cough, cystitis, diabetes,

edema, eye problems,

fetal

growth problems,

fever,

hemorrhages, hypertension, indigestion, itch, kidney stones, malaria, menstrual disorders, pain, postmenstrual hemorrhages, rheumatism, snakebite, sores, sterility, threatened miscarriage, urogenital inflammation, uterine hemorrhage, sexually transmitted diseases, water retention, wounds and as a

female balancing aid

The Healing Power of

156

Rainforest Herbs

ACEROLA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions nutritious

•

is

•

fights free radicals

fungi

•

kills

•

dries secretions

•

increases urination

Fruit

Fresh Juice:

1

cup two or

three times daily

l-2g

Tablets/Capsules:

twice daily or follow the label directions

based

on vitamin

C

grows up

to 5

content

Family: Malpighiaceae

Genus: Malpighia Species: glabra, punicifolia

Common

Names:

acerola, Antilles

cherry,

Barbados

cherry, cereso, cerezo,

Acerola {Malpighia glabra)

is

a small tree or shrub that

the dry, deciduous forest.

It

produces an abundance of bright red

in diameter,

For this reason, acerola

leaves

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

known

1-2

European

cm

cherry.

as the Antilles, Barbados, Puerto Rican,

The mature fruits are juicy and soft with a pleasant, tart flavor. Acerola can be found growing wild and under cultivation on the sandy soils throughout northeastern Brazil. It is native to northern South America,

fruit,

also

is

to the

fruit

or West Indian cherry tree.

escobillo, health tree

Parts Used:

with several small seeds that look similar

m high in

Central America, and Jamaica.

Its

cousin,

M.

pninicifolia, is

present as far

north as Florida and Texas.

Acerola juice

is

as

common and

popular in Brazil as orange juice

America. As a natural remedy in Brazil, a handful of fresh

and dysentery.

fever

It is

is

fruit is

in

North

eaten for

also used there as an anti-inflammatory, astringent,

stimulant for the liver and renal systems, diuretic, and to support heart function as well as to heal

wounds.

It is

employed as

betes, high cholesterol levels, liver problems,

a nutritive aid for

anemia, dia-

rheumatism, tuberculosis, and

during convalescence. In

North America, the use of acerola

is

mostly based on

its

high content of

vitamin C, which has long been thought in conventional and alternative health practices as a powerful antioxidant.

PLANT CHEMICALS

Until the plant richest

known

camu-camu appeared on

the scene, acerola

was considered

the

source of natural vitamin C. Oranges provide 500 to 4,000 parts

per million (ppm) of vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, whereas acerola has been

found

in tests to

provide ascorbic acid in a range of 16,000 to 172,000 ppm^'^

Acerola can contain

up

to 4.5 percent

peeled orange. The vitamin

C

season, climate, and locality.^

vitamin C, compared to 0.05 percent in a

content of acerola varies depending on ripeness,

As

the fruit begins to ripen,

it

loses a great deal

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

of

its

157

vitamin content; for this reason, most commercially-produced acerola

harvested while

more

vitamin

C

than oranges.

green.

much magnesium,

Acerola also provides twice as

Acerola contains 4-5 times

still

potassium as oranges. pared

to

is

It

also contains vitamin

pantothenic acid, and

A (4,300 to

com-

12,500 IU/100 g,

approximately 11,000 lU for raw carrots) and thiamine, riboflavin, and

niacin in concentrations comparable to those in other fruits.

Thus

far,

150 other constituents have been identified in acerola."^ In addition

to ascorbic acid

and the other vitamins mentioned above, acerola contains

3-

methyl-3-butenol, dehydroascorbic acid, calcium, dextrose, diketogulonic acid, fructose, furfural, hexadecanoic acid, iron, limonene, 1-malic acid,

protein,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

and sucrose.

Acerola has not been the subject of

sumed

phosphorus,

much clinical research since it is mainly con-

as a food, rather than used as an herbal remedy. In

one

in vitro

study,

the leaves, bark, and fruit of acerola were reported to have antifungal properties.^

New

findings

show

of other supplements (the

may

and actions cholesterol-lowering actions of soy and alfalfa, in one that acerola

potentiate the benefits

study).^

C is a powerful antioxand acerola extracts are now

Recent research in cosmetology indicates that vitamin idant and free radical scavenger for the skin,

appearing

min

in skin care

products that fight cellular aging. In addition to

content, acerola contains mineral salts that have

ineralization of tired

and stressed

skin,

and

its

shown

its

vita-

to aid in the

rem-

mucilage and proteins have

skin-hydrating properties and promote capillary conditioning.

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

In

North America, acerola

la fruit

extracts can

now

is

used for

be found

its

high content of vitamin C. Dried acero-

in tablet

form and as an ingredient

in

many

over-the-counter multivitamin products in the United States as a natural form of vitamin C.

Traditional

Preparation

In

South America, acerola juice

Consumers

in the

is

freely

consumed

like

most other

fruit juices.

United States should take acerola supplements based on the

content provided in the products available in the marketplace. The adult recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 60-75 mg daily. Therapeutic dosages of vitamin C for colds and flu, general illnesses, and debil-

vitamin

ity

Contraindications

C

are 1-5 g daily.

A study

published

ilar to that

of the

in

2002 reported that acerola caused allergic reactivity sim-

well-known allergen

latex.

Those

who may be allergic to latex

The Healing Power of

158

may

also be allergic to acerola in

supplement form or

to

its

Rainforest Herbs

addition in various

fruit juices/

C

Large dosages of vitamin

Drug

Interactions

None

can cause diarrhea.

reported.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

cholesterol levels, inflammation, liver problems, for anemia, diabetes, dysentery, fever, heart function, high tuberculosis, water retention, wounds, and as a drying/astringent agent

.

rheumatism,

Guatemala

for diarrhea

Mexico

for fever and as an astringent

Venezuela

for

Elsewhere

for diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis, liver disorders, and as an astringent

bowel inflammation, breast disorders, dysentery

AMARGO HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Main Actions

Standard Dosage

Other Actions •

reduces inflammation

•

kills

cancer

•

kills

leukemia

insects

•

prevents tumors

larva

•

kills

treats malaria

•

dries secretions

•

prevents ulcers

•

cleanses blood

•

stimulates digestion

•

mildly laxative

•

increases bile

•

sedates

•

reduces fever

•

increases saliva

parasites

•

kills

•

kills lice

•

expels wornns

•

kills

•

kills

•

cells ceils

Wood,

Bark

Infusion:

I

cup two or three

times daily Tablets/Capsules:

-2 g two

I

or three times daily viruses

Cold Maceration: Family:

Simaroubaceae Genus: Quassia Species:

Common amargo.

amara

cup

two or three times

daily

Names:

bitter ash, bitterholz,

bitterwood. bois amer, bois

de quassia, crucete, quassia, cuassia, fliegenholz, guabo,

hombre grande, Jamaica kashshing, marauba,

1

bark,

marupi

Amargo

is

a small tropical tree,

growing only 2-6

m in height.

It is

indigenous

Venezuela, Suriname, Colombia, Argentina, and Guyana. It has beautiful red flowers and fruits that turn red as they mature. Known botanically another tree as Quassia amara, it is marketed and used interchangeably with to Brazil, Peru,

Medicinal Plants of the

palo muneco, pau amarelo, quassia amarga, quassiawood,

ruda, simaruba, simaruba-

baum, quassiaholz, quassia

Amazon

159

common name of quassia (and many and uses), P. excelsa is much taller (up to 25 m

species, Picrasma excelsa. Sharing the

of

Quassia amara's constituents

in

height)

and occurs

farther north in the tropics of Jamaica, the Caribbean, the

Lesser Antilles, and northern Venezuela. In herbal medicine in the United States

de cayenne, quassie, quina, simaba, Suriname

wood

and Europe, very

little

are used identically Parts Used:

wood,

distinction

and

is

just called

made between the two species of trees; they quassia. The name amargo means ''bitter" in

leaves

Spanish and describes

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

its

very bitter

taste.

amargo is used much in the same manner as quinine bark: for malaria and fevers and as a bitter digestive aid. It grows at lower elevations (where quinine does not) and contains many of the same antimalarial In the

Amazon

rainforest,

phytochemicals (plant chemicals) as quinine. In addition, ticide

and

tonic,

and

for hepatitis. Brazilian Indians

measles, as well as in a

name use go

is

mouthwash used

the bark for fever

a tribal

remedy

and

used as an insec-

use the leaves in a bath for

after tooth extractions. Indians in Suri-

parasites.

Throughout South America, amar-

for debility, digestion

parasites, malaria, snakebite,

it is

problems, fever, liver problems,

and back spasms.

amargo is considered a tonic, and mild laxative. It is recom-

In current Brazilian herbal medicine systems,

digestion stimulant, blood cleanser, insecticide,

mended

worms, dysentery, dyspepsia, excessive mucus, gas, stomachache, anemia, and liver and gastroin-

for diarrhea, intestinal

expelling

worms,

intestinal

testinal disorders. In Peru,

ulate gastric

amargo

is

employed

as a bitter digestive aid to stim-

and other digestive secretions as well as

kidney stones, and gallstones. In Mexico, the

wood

is

for fevers, tuberculosis,

used

for liver

bladder diseases and for intestinal parasites. In Nicaragua, amargo expel

worms and

intestinal parasites, as well as for malaria

and is

gall-

used

to

and anemia.

Throughout South America, the bitter principals of amargo are used to stimulate the appetite and secretion of digestive juices, as well as to expel worms and intestinal parasites.

Amargo for

all

is

widely used

kinds of parasites,

worms, and internally

lice,

both

and externally.

United States and Europe, amargo is employed as a bitter tonic for stomach, gallbladder, and other digestive problems (by increasing the flow of bile, digestive juices, and saliva); as a laxative, amebicide, and insecticide; and to expel intestinal worms. In Europe, it is often found in variIn herbal

medicine

in the

ous herbal drugs that promote gallbladder, liver, and other digestive functions. scabies, fleas, In Britain, a water extract of the wood is used topically against

and other skin parasites. U.S. herbalist David Hoffman recommends it as an excellent remedy for dyspeptic conditions, to stimulate production of saliva and digestive juices, and to increase the appetite (as well as for lice infestations lice,

and threadworms). He also

notes, "It

may

safely be used in

all

appetite such as anorexia nervosa and digestive sluggishness."

cases of lack of

Rainforest Herbs

The Healing Power of

60

bitter principles PLANT Amargo bark contains many active constituents including quinine.^ While amargo contains CHEMICALS reported to be fifty times more bitter than also conbark,

many

of the

of antimalarial chemicals as quinine

same types

tains another chemical called quassin.

and wood gives amargo Chemicals

make

it

fifty

in

amargo

times

more

bitter than quinine!

ACTIVITIES

AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

amount of quassin in the bark 40,000.^ The bark also contains

large

a bitterness rating of

the phytochemicals quassimarin

and simalikalactone D. Quassimarin has

studies,'^ demonstrated antileukemic and antitumorous properties in various antiviral,^ and simalikalactone D has been documented to have antimalarial, have demonstrated antitumor,^ and anticancer activities.^^ other quassinoids

antiamebic actions

BIOLOGICAL

The

it

in vivo

and

in vitro.

its traditional use Several early clinical studies performed on amargo verified treatment for head lice as a natural insecticide, documenting it as an effective

infestation in humans.^^'^'^

One

of these studies reported a 99 percent effective-

only two topical treatments one week apart.^^ with head lice, those treated a 1991 double-blind placebo trial on 148 children a prewith an amargo bark extract reported fewer new cases, demonstrating

ness in 454 patients

who had

ventative activity against

reported to

lice.^^

quite well against aphids in

work

amargo water extract has been the garden,^** and researchers m

In addition, an

insects, includIndia have discovered larvicidal activity against several types of

Since

ing mosquitoes. ica,

amargo

is

99 percent

effective for

head

lice.

South Amer-

One study showed

strong

antimalarial activity in mice.^^

reported to have antiviral activity

Amargo was

studies reveal

for malaria in

researchers studied this biological effect as well.

in vivo

Human

amargo has long been used

when

scientists at

Texas

active in Christian University demonstrated in 1996 that a water extract was reported that amarvitro against cells infected with HIV.^^ A 1978 in vivo study

quassimarin) go wood and/or sap extracts (as well as the isolated chemical amargo inhibited the growth of leukemia in mice."' In 2002, an extract of the

have antiulcerous actions in mice, inhibiting the formation means).^*^ Prior to this of gastric ulcers (induced by stress and various chemical phytochemicals in amarstudy, a U.S. patent was awarded on the quassinoid

wood was shown

go, finding

another relaxant,

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

them

to

to

have 'Temarkable antiulcer

effects

amargo was reported to have and sedative effects in rats and mice.^^

in vivo

study,

with low

toxicities."^*^ In

pain-relieving, muscle-

South America, amargo is still heavily relied on as a natural remedy for parNorth American herbal medasites of all kinds. It is slowly catching on here in lice, but it is predominately icine practices as a remedy for parasites and head In

and remedy for digestive disorders. Amargo Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as generally

used here as a

bitter digestive aid

wood

by the U.S.

is

listed

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

161

regarded as safe (GRAS). The

wood and

main bitter chemical, quassin, also employed in beverages and baked

its

—

approved as food additives and are goods for their bitter taste. Toxicity studies performed on rats and mice reported no toxicity in oral dosages up to 5 g per kg of body weight. are

Traditional

Preparation

The in

traditional

1

remedy

as a digestive aid

cup of boiling water. This

meals. Alternatively,

is

is

V2 teaspoon of wood powder infused

taken ten to fifteen minutes before or with

g in tablets or capsules can be taken two or three times daily on an empty stomach for an internal parasite cleanse. Another remedy teaspoons of wood powder or chips to be soaked in

calls for 2

overnight

(a

and digestive

cold maceration). This

lice

bug

It

drunk

on plants and

or fleas, prepare a cold maceration (allowing

every three days for three applications, and for a small handful of

left

to

fleas,

in bird baths) to kill

on the dog.

macerate /soak directly to the

on the dog). For

lice,

repeat

apply once monthly. Also,

amargo wood chips can be placed

few chips

it

fleas

and pour through the hair or apply

can be washed off in an hour (or simply

tains (or a

of cold water

for internal parasites, gallstones,

spray, especially for aphids

for twenty-four hours). Strain skin.

is

cup

1

disorders. This maceration can also be used topically for skin /hair

parasites or as a

For head

1

in

backyard ponds /foun-

mosquito larvae without harming

fish

or birds.

Contraindications

Amargo should have an

not be used during pregnancy.

anti-fertility effect in studies

ty treatment or

wishing

to

Drug

Interactions

None

to

with male

Men

rats.^^

undergoing

fertili-

mucous membrane of the stomach nausea and vomiting. Do not exceed recommended dosages.

reported. However,

irritate the

amargo may

interfere with

male

fertility

drugs.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

for anemia, anorexia, colic, debility, dental pain, diarrhea, digestion disorders, dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, flatulence, gallbladder problems, gallstones, gastrointestinal disorders, gonorrhea, kidney stones, liver

problems, malaria, measles, urinary

insufficiency, vaginal discharge,

and

as a bitter digestive stimulant

worms

Costa Rica

for diabetes, diarrhea, fever,

Europe

for bile insufficiency, digestive disorders, fleas, gallstones, liver disease, parasites, scabies, threadworms, and as a bitter digestive stimulant

Guatemala

for constipation, diabetes, high blood pressure, nervousness

Mexico

for digestive disorders, gallbladder problems, intestinal parasites, liver disorders,

stimulant

to

have children probably should avoid using amargo.

Large amounts of amargo can

and can lead

Amargo has been documented

worms, and

as a digestive

The Healing Power of

162

worms, and

Rainforest Herbs

as an astringent

Nicaragua

malaria, stings, for anemia, bug bites, intestinal parasites,

Panama

malaria, snakebite for hyperglycemia, fever, liver disorders,

Peru

parasites, kidney stones. fever, gallstones, hepatitis, intestinal for cleansing blood, digestive disorders, edema, an insecticide Stimulating digestion.tuberculosis. worms, and as

South

digestive disorders, carcinoma. for anorexia, cleansing blood, debility, leukemia, constipation, fever, fleas, hyperglycemia, indigestion,

America

lice, liver

disorders malaria,

cirrhosis,

digestion, parasites, scabies, snakebite, spasms, stimulating

worms, and

as an aphidicide

and msec

ici

e

and as an astringent and tonic fever, malaria, urinary insufficiency, for diarrhea, digestive difficulty, dysentery, gallbladder convalescence, debility, digestive disorders, fever, for alcoholism, anorexia, bowel cleansing, bile production, liver support, spasms, stimulating problems, increasing saliva, intestinal parasites, lice,

Turkey United States

stimulating digestion,

worms

Venezuela

for constipation, dysentery, fever,

Elsewhere

for

amebic

worms, and

as a tonic

carcinoma, fever, liver disorders, malaria, snakebite, infections, bacterial infections, cancer,

stimulating digestion, tumors,

worms, and

as an insecticide and tonic

AMOR SECO HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

Family: Fabaceae

Genus; Desmodium Species; adscendens

Common amor

seco,

Names:

amor-do-campo,

strong back, pega pega, margarita. beggar-lice, burbur,

manayupa, hard man, hard stick,

de

boi,

mundubirana. barba mundurana, owono-

bocon, dipinda dimukuyi.

cleanses blood

Leaves,

•

detoxifies

Infusion: 1-3 cups daily

reduces asthma

•

increases urination

Tincture: 4-6 ml daily

•

reduces convulsions

•

mildly laxative

Capsules/Tablets: 4-5 g

•

blocks histamine

•

heals

•

reduces inflammation

•

reduces spasms

•

dilates bronchials

•

relaxes muscles

reduces pain

•

blocks allergies

•

Amor

seco

is

a weedy, perennial herb that

grows

to 50

cm

tall

and produces

light-purple flowers

along

turbed. In Brazil, the plant call the

is

known

as aifwr seco or anior-do-amipo; Peruvians

The Desmodium genus is a large one, with about 400 and tropical perennial and annual herbs growing in temperate South Africa. In the South the Western hemisphere, Australia, and Desmodium axillare, a closely related plant, is used inter-

plant mannyupa.

species of

regions in

tropics,

aerial parts.

leaves

daily

wounds

and green fruits in small, beanlike pods. It is in open forests, pastures, indigenous to many tropical countries and grows anywhere the soil is disroadsides, and like many weeds— just about

numerous

American Parts Used:

Whole herb

•

•

dusa karnira, tick-clover, tick trefoil

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

changeably

in herbal

medicine systems.

Medicinal Plants of the

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Amazon

163

Today, tribes in the

Amazon

have

A tea

for centuries.

rainforest use

ers,

and

in the

it is

given for nervousness, and

Some

tribes believe the plant has

as they

used

it is

in

magic pow-

taken by lovers to rekindle a waning romance. Rio Pastaza natives

Amazon brew

mote milk

is

of the plant

baths to treat vaginal infections.

amor seco medicinally much

a leaf tea

and wash the breasts

of

mothers with

to pro-

it

flow. Additional indigenous tribal uses include a leaf decoction for

consumption, an application of pounded leaves and lime juice

for

indigenous Garifuna

amor seco

wounds, and a leaf infusion for convulsions and venereal sores. A survey, in which more than 8,000 natives in various parts of Brazil were interviewed, showed that a decoction of the dried roots of amor seco is a popular tribal remedy for malaria.^ The nally for diarrhea

Amor

seco

is

Nicaragua uses a

tribe in

leaf decoction of

and sexually transmitted diseases, and

inter-

to aid digestion.

also quite popular in herbal medicine throughout South

Central America. In Peruvian herbal medicine today, a leaf tea

is

and

used as a blood

body from environmental toxins and chemicals; as a urinary tract cleanser; and to treat ovarian and uterine problems such as inflammation and irritation, vaginal discharges, and hemorrhages. In Belize (where cleanser; to detoxify the

the plant

is

called ''strong back"), the entire plant

four hours, and then

V4 cup

is

and

1

cup

of

warm tea

is

soaked

in

rum

for

twenty-

taken three times daily for seven to ten days for

backaches. Alternatively, an entire plant utes,

is

is

boiled in 3 cups of water for ten min-

taken before meals for three to five days for

of backache, muscle pains, kidney ailments,

and impotence.

relief

In Brazilian herbal

medicine, the dried leaves are used for the treatment of asthma, vaginal dis-

body aches and pains, ovarian inflammation, excessive urination, excesmucus, and diarrhea. In Ghana, a leaf decoction is a popular remedy for

charge, sive

bronchial asthma, constipation, dysentery, and colic, and

is

also used to dress

wounds.

PLANT Amor seco is known to be rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and chemicals known CHEMICALS as soyasaponins. A novel soyasaponin in amor seco is dehydrosoyasaponin.

It

is

considered a highly active chemical with therapeutic actions for asthma.

Amor

seco also contains a chemical called astragalin, which

antibacterial chemical

found

in the

is

a well

known

popular medicinal plant astragalus.

seco's traditional uses for infections, sexually transmitted diseases,

Amor

and wounds

are probably related to this particular chemical in the plant.

Main chemicals found

in

amor seco include

astragalin, beta-phenylethy-

lamines, cosmosiin, cyanidin-3-o-sophoroside, dehydrosoyasaponins, hordenine, pelargonidin-3-o-rhamnoside, salsoline, soyasaponins, tectorigenin,

tetrahydroisoquinolines, and tyramine.

The Healing Power of

Rainforest

Herbs

164

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

to treat bronchial ast leaves seco amor used long Herbalists in Ghana have from the scienit attracted attention ma. The treatment was so successful that that observational study on humans showed tific community. In 1977, a clinical proamor seco leaf powder daily (in three dosages) 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried In an asthma patients treated. duced improvement and remission in most properties of this effective natural rem'

understand the anti-asthmatic animal studies to determine how it worked. edy, scientists conducted various found that amor seco interfered with the In ten different studies, researchers produced during an asthma production of many of the chemicals normally histathat cause contractions in the lung; attack; chemicals called spasmogens

effort to

and chemicals called leukotrienes that and increase mucus production are known to stimulate bronchoconstriction allergens asthma.-*-'-* Many substances and in the airway— all key features of

mine

Human and

animal

studies indicate that

seco

is

amor

beneficial for

asthma.

that triggers the allergic response;

called anaphylactic shock, or anacan cause a life-threatening allergic reaction reported that amor seco had an antiphylaxis. Several of these animal studies that trigpr such reactions. anaphylactic action against many known substances constrict or become too Bronchoconstriction (the tendency of airways to in response to various stimuli and narrow, thereby making it hard to breath) and anaphylactic reactions. Some allergens is a universal feature of asthma muscle-relaxing effect in lung tissues researchers noted that amor seco has a induced by a variinhibited contractions and constriction

(bronchodilator) and

shown to activate the chemical play an potassium maxi-K channels."’ Maxi-K channels

ety of substances.**-"*

process

known

as

Amor

seco has also been

smooth muscle and the release important role in regulating the tone of airway One of amor seco s chemicals, dehyof constrictive substances in the lungs. known potassium (maxidrosoyasaponin 1, was cited as being "the most potent thought to contribute to amor seco's K) channel opener.""’ This effect is also therapeutic activity in asthma.

Amor

seco's

traction of

documented

smooth muscle

anti-allergic activity acts to inhibit not

in the

airways of the upper respiratory

only con-

tract

but also

throughout the body.^ These documuscle contraction at multiple other sites help explain why amor seco mented antispasmodic and muscle relaxant actions and muscle spasms. Amor seco has has been traditionally used for backaches pain-relieving actions been documented in animal studies to have also recently

as well as anticonvulsant actions.^^

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

in South America today use this Natural health practitioners and herbalists allergies and for muscle spasms and back herbal remedy mainly for asthma and

rheumatism to some newer published research linking arthritis and same allergy-induced chemical various allergic reactions (and some of the

pain With

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

165

processes found in asthma), the indigenous use of arthritis ister

amor

seco for back pain and

may become the subject of future research. Amor seco is easy to admin-

and

is

highly effective at low dosages. In addition,

or toxicity places

it

in the first line of

its

lack of side effects

defense in the herbalist's medicine chest

of natural remedies.

Traditional

Preparation

Generally, 1-3 cups of

amor

seco leaf tea (standard infusion) daily, 4-6 ml of a

standard tincture, or 4-5 g of powdered leaves in capsules daily are used for

most conditions.

Contraindications

None known.

Drug

None

Interactions

reported.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Africa

for asthma, bronchitis, central nervous system disorders, colic, ringworms,

Amazonia

for backache, convulsions, headache, inflammation, muscle spasms, nervousness, pain, stimulating breast milk,

wounds

and as a contraceptive

Belize

for aches (back, joint, muscle), headache, kidney disorders

Brazil

for

body aches, cough,

diarrhea, excessive mucus, excessive urination, inflammation, malaria, ovarian

inflammation, spasms, vaginal discharge

Ghana

for anaphylaxis, asthma, colic, constipation, dysentery,

Nicaragua

for diarrhea, digestive disorders, sexually transmitted diseases

Peru

for detoxifying blood, hemorrhage, inflammation, nervousness, ovarian problems, urinary problems, vaginitis

Trinidad

for detoxifying blood, malnutrition, sexually transmitted diseases, urinary disorders

United

for asthma, backache, headache, impotency, joint aches, kidney, muscle pain, muscle spasms

wounds

States

Elsewhere

for asthma, constipation, convulsion, cough, fractures, scabies, sores, stimulating milk flow, tuberculosis,

sexually transmitted diseases,

worms, wounds

The Healing Power of 1

Herbs

Rainforest

66

ANAMU HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

•

reduces pain

•

kills

bacteria

kills

cancer

•

Family; Phytolaccaceae •

Genus:

cells

fungi

kills

Petiveria

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

•

reduces spasms

Whole Herb

•

reduces anxiety

Infusion:

•

reduces fever

•

lowers blood sugar

•

kills

•

promotes menstruation

or three times

daily

•

kills

Names;

reduces free radicals

•

•

sedates

anamu, apacin, apacina,

prevents tumors

•

increases perspiration

•

apazote de zorro, aposin,

kills

viruses

•

•

expels

•

kills

Candida

•

increases urination

•

enhances immunity

ave, aveterinaryte,

calauchin, chasser vermine,

Congo

garlic

weed, guinea henweed, guine, guinea, guinea hen root,

Anamu

is

cells

worms

an herbaceous perennial that grows up

huevo de

gato, kojo root, mapurite,

mucura-caa, mucura,

mucuracaa, ocano, payche, pipi, tipi,

leukemia

root, douvant-

douvant. emeruaiuma.

leaf, gully

daily

insects

reduces inflammation

Common

two

Tablets/Capsules: 1-3 g

•

Species; alliacea

to '6 cup

verbena hedionda,

nous

to the

Amazon

ily

above the

leaves.

Part Used; whole herb

Amazon,

MEDICINE USES

tropical areas of Central

It is

indige-

and South Ameri-

green leathery leaves that he Caribbean, and Africa. It produces dark with small white flowers that float airclose to the ground and tall spikes lined especalled "garlic weed," as the plant, and cially the roots,

AND HERBAL

and

m in height.

ca, the

verveine puante, zorrillo

TRIBAL

rainforest

to 1

In the craft

It is

sometimes

have a strong

garlic odor.

niinimi or fi>/ in Brazil,

and

It is

giiine in

called mnaira in the Peruvian

other parts of Latin America.

Amazon rainforest, anamu is used as part of an herbal bath

by the Indians and

por Indians

call

it

against witch-

curamleros. local jungle herbal healers called

The Ka

a-

means opossum herb) and use it for both Guatemala crush the root and inhale it for

mikur-ka'a (which

medicine and magic. The Caribs

in

Amazon and the Ese'Ejas Indians in the Peruvian indigenous people in Nicaragua also sion for' colds and flu. The Garifuna coughs, and aches and pains, as employ a leaf infusion or decoction for colds, thought to be more powerful than the well as for magic rituals. The root is and is often used m the rainforest m topleaves. It is considered a pain-reliever into Other indigenous Indian groups beat the leaves ical remedies for the skin. headache, rheumatic pain, and other types of a paste and use it externally for used as an insecticide. pain. This same jungle remedy is also prepare a leaf infu-

sinusifis,

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

167

Anamu where

it

has a long history in herbal medicine in

grows. In Brazilian herbal medicine,

it is

of the tropical countries

all

considered an antispasmod-

menstrual promoter, stimulant, and sweat promoter. Herbalists and natural health practitioners there use anamu for edema, arthritis, malaria, ic,

diuretic,

rheumatism, and poor memory, and as a topical analgesic and anti-inflamma-

Throughout Central America, women use anamu to relieve birthing pains and facilitate easy childbirth, as well as to induce abortions. In Guatemalan herbal medicine, the plant is called apacui and a leaf decoctory for skin afflictions.

taken internally for digestive ailments and sluggish digestion, flatulence,

tion

is

and

fever.

A leaf decoction is also used externally as an analgesic for muscular

pain and for skin diseases. in

Anamu

is

commonly used

South and Central America as a natural remedy

fluenza, respiratory

immune

and pulmonary

infections,

and

and towns

in big cities

to treat colds,

and

cancer,

to

coughs,

in-

support the

system. In Cuba, herbalists decoct the whole plant and use

it

to treat

cancer and diabetes, and as an anti-inflammatory and abortive.

PLANT CHEMICALS

Many

biologically active

compounds have been discovered

ing flavonoids, triterpenes, steroids, and sulfur specific sulfur

gram

compound named dibenzyl

at the University of Illinois at

plant extracts as novel therapies for

anamu was one cancer.

active

compounds.

in

anamu, includ-

Anamu contains a

trisulfide. In a plant-screening pro-

Chicago that evaluated more than 1,400 the prevention and treatment of cancer,

of thirty-four plants identified with active properties against

The researchers reported

compounds

in

that dibenzyl trisulfide

anamu with

anticancerous actions.^

the phytochemicals astilbin, benzaldehyde,

and coumarin,

was one

Anamu all

of

of

two of the

also contains

which have been

contains

documented with antitumorous and/or anticancerous properties as well.^"^ Main chemicals found in anamu include allantoin, astilbin, barbinervic acid,

chemicals with tested

benzylhydroxytrisulfide, coumarin, daucosterol, dibenzyl sulfide, engeletin,

anticancerous actions.

friedelinol, ilexgenin A, leridal, leridol, lignoceric acid, linoleic acid, myricitrin,

Anamu

nonadecanoic acid, terol, stearic acid,

oleic acid, palmitic acid, petiveral, pinitol, proline, sitos-

and

trithiolaniacine.

BIOLOGICAL

The research published on anamu (and the plant chemicals described above)

ACTIVITIES

reveals that the herb has a broad range of therapeutic properties, including

AND

CLINICAL

antileukemic, antitumorous, and anticancerous activities against several types

RESEARCH

of cancer cells. In an in vitro study by Italian researchers in 1990, water extracts

and ethanol

extracts of

eral other strains of

anamu

retarded the growth of leukemia cells and sev-

cancerous tumor

cells.^

Three years

lowed up with another study, which showed cytotoxic effect, actually killing

some

later,

that the

the researchers fol-

same

extracts

had

a

of these cancer cells, rather than just

The Healing Power of

Rainforest Herbs

68 extrac indicated that whole herb water retarding their growth. This study but leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells

anamu were

toxic to

m

d

More recently, a study published 2002 the growth of breast cancer cells.* vttro cancer cell line; another umented an in vitro toxic effect against a liver ce s. retarded the growth of brain cancer study in 2001 reported that anamu relatanamu's activity against brain cancer cells

m

A German study documenting ed

Human

and animal

research confirms is

a natural

anamu

immune

stimulant.

its

actions to the sulfur

In addition to

in the plant.

has also been

documented anticancerous properties, anamu an immunostimulant. vivo and in vitro studies to be

its

found in both in study with mice, cytes

compounds found

a

water extract stimulated

and Interleukin

II).’’

In the

same

immune cell

In a 1993

production (lympho-

year, another study with activity

mice demon-

by 100 percent

killer cell an anamu extract increased natural more types of immune cells (Interferon, and stimulated the production of even 1997 to 2001 turther 4). Additional research from

strated that

and Interleukin actions in humans and animals. substantiated anamu's immunostimulant been arthritis and rheumatism has Anamu's traditional use as a remedy for anti-inflammaits pain-relieving and validated by clinical research confirming possesses in Sweden reported that anamu tory properties. One research group Interleukin

II,

new (anc

COX-1 inhibitors are a cyclooxygenase-l (COX-1) inhibitory actions.'-* being sold foday by pharmaceutica highly profitable) class of arfhritis drugs

significant anti-

Brazil documented companies. Another research group in models,'*"'' and researchers inflammatory effects in rats using various

noted

m 200

The pain-relieving and antiwhen an ethanol extract was applied

in rats.'" a significant pain-relieving effect

inflammatory

effects

were even

verified

traditional use.'" topically in rats, again validating reports and studies document that

Many

clinical

anamu shows

broad-spec-

of bacteria, viruses,

strains trum antimicrobial properties against numerous the extracts inhibited the replication of fungi and yeast. In a 2002 study, anamu for hepatitis C virus.^" A Cuban bovine diarrhea virus; this is a test model

research group

documented anamu's antimicrobial properties

numerous pathogens, including

Escherichia

coli,

m

vitro against

Staphylococcus, Psciulomonas

their crude water extracts performed and Shiwila and, interestingly enough, goo extracts.^' A German group documented better than any of the alcohol and gram-negative bacteria, Mycobacteriactivity against several gram-positive Candida^ Anamu's antifungal um tuberculosis, several strains of fungi, and in 1991,» and again by a were documented by one research group

properties

was

further

demon-

Its antimicrobial activity Lparate research group in 2001 and Austria who, in separate studies m strated by researchers from Guatemala several strains of vitro and in vivo studies against 1998, confirmed its activity in protozoa, bacteria, and fungi.’^-^*

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

169

While anamu has not been used widely employed for diabetes, it has been clinically documented to have hypoglycemic actions. Researchers in 1990 demonstrated the in vivo hypoglycemic effect of anamu, showing that anamu decreased blood sugar levels by more than 60 percent one hour after administration to mice. This finding reflects herbal medicine practice in Cuba where

anamu

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

has been used as an herbal aid for diabetes for

many

years.^^

With the many documented properties and actions of this tropical plant, it is no wonder that anamu has enjoyed such a long history of use in herbal medicine.

Continuing research on

this plant's attributes is quantifying

and qualify-

ing the richness of indigenous herbal traditions. Today, in South America,

anamu

is

being used for

a support aid for cancer

its

immune

and leukemia

the United States,

and anamu

several labels.

also being

It is

stimulant and anticancerous properties as

is

now

patients. This use

is

catching on here in

available in capsules

employed

in various

and

bial actions against bacteria, viruses, yeast,

and

formulas for

tablets its

under

antimicro-

fungi, as well as in other for-

mulas supporting immune function. In the first published

high dosages,

anamu

study on toxicity in 1992, researchers noted

extract delayed cell proliferation in vitro.

tested the extract in mice, they noted that cells;

however, they were using 100

to

it

caused a change

in

that, at

When

they

bone marrow

400 times the traditional dosage given

humans.^® In two independent studies published

by other researchers, oral doses of leaf and root extracts did not cause any toxicity in rats and mice at up to 5 g per kg of body weight. Methanol extracts of the plant did, to

however, cause uterine contractions lead to abortion, one of

in

an early

later

study;-^^

such contractions can

anamu's well documented uses

in traditional herbal

medicine.

Traditional

Preparation

The

remedy calls for a decoction or infusion prepared with 30 g of dried anamu whole herb in a liter of water; V4 cup to V2 dosages are taken one to three times daily or used topically, depending on the condition treated. Since most of the chemicals are water soluble, powdered whole herb in tablets or traditional

capsules (1-3 grams) daily can be substituted,

Contraindications

if

desired.

Methanol extracts of anamu cause uterine contractions, which can lead tion.

As

such,

Anamu ning

anamu

is

contraindicated for pregnant

to abor-

women.

contains a low concentration of coumarin, which has a blood-thin-

effect.

People with blood disorders such as hemophilia and people on

blood-thinning medications should not use

and advice of

this plant

a qualified healthcare practitioner.

without the supervision

The Healing Power of

Rainforest Herbs

170

This plant has been

shown to have hypoglycemic effects in mice.

Peopk with

plant unless they are under the hypoglycemia and diabetes should not use this monitor their blood sugar levels. care of a healthcare practitioner to

Drug

None

Interactions

published. However,

ceivable that

it

may

due

to

anamu

s

natural coumarin content,

potentiate the effects of

coumadin (Warfarin

it

is

con

).

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Argentina

infections, rheumatism, swellings, menstrual problems, respiratory tract for colds, diarrhea, feve^headache, urinary infections, urinary insufficiency

toothache,

Brazil

increasing diabetes, fever, headache, inflammation, for abortions, asthma, arthritis, cancer, spasms, toothache, disorders, osteoarthritis, pain, rheumatism, intestinal parasites, malaria, menstrual and sedative diseases, worms, and as an insecticide insufficiency, sexually transmitted

Colombia

snakebite for cavity prevention, childbirth,

Cuba

inflammation for abortions, cancer, diabetes,

Guatemala

headache, menstrual dermatitis, diarrhea, erysipelas, fever, for abscesses, blood disorders, boils, cramps skin eruptions, skin fungus, stomach pimples, ringworm, sinusitis, skin disease,

Latin

cleansing blood, hysteria, increasing for abortions, absence of menses, urinary insufficiency perspiration, nerves, reducing phlegm, spasms,

America Mexico

for abortions,

boils, catarrh, childbirth, cleansing

blood, colds, delayed menses, epilepsy,

y

problems,

h^^ache heat

rabies, rep 8 influenza, nerves, paralysis, pimples, rash hives, hysteria, increasing perspiration, diseases, insufficiency, sexually transmitted phlegm, spasms, toothache, tumor, urinary

rheumatism, reducing

worms Nicaragua

kidney disorders, liver support, pains, for aches, colds, coughs, heart problems,

pulmonary disorders,

respiratory disorders, snakebite

Paraguay

for abortions, digestive diseases, fever,

flu,

menstrual disorders, pain (muscular),

sinusitis, skin disease,

toothache, and as an insecticide

Peru

for colds,

Puerto Rico

menstrual problems for abortions, cholera, childbirth, fever,

Trinidad

for abortions, cleansing blood, cystitis,

flu

flu,

head cold,

irritations,

menstrual disorders, thinning blood, sexually

transmitted diseases

Venezuela

difficulties, root canal problems, blood, intestinal parasites, menstrual for abortions, cavities, cleansing

spasms,

Elsewhere

worms

perspW

^ colds, coughs, fever, headache, for abortions, asthma, cancer, childbirth, phlegm rheumatis reducing pain, menstrual problems, nervousness, intestinal parasites, lung disorders, diseases, worms; and as an insufficiency, sexually transmitted snakebite, spasms, toothache, urinary aphrodisiac, insecticide, and sedative

—

,

—

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

171

ANDIROBA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

Family: Meliaceae

Genus: Carapa Species: guianensis,

procera

Common

soothes

reduces pain

•

reduces fever

•

reduces inflammation

•

prevents tumors

•

kills

bacteria

•

kills

parasites

•

expels

•

repels insects

•

kills

heals

•

Seed

skin

to the skin as needed. Internal: 2 ml

Brazilian

insects

is

a

mahogany due

Amazon

grows up to 40 m high. It is in the same has been called Brazilian mahogany or bastard

rainforest tree that

tall

family as mahogany, and

it

to their similarity.

on

rainforest, usually

It

can be found growing wild throughout the

rich soils, in

Amazon

Basin.

swamps, and It

macho, crabwood. figueroa, krapa.

seaside. its

Parts Used; seed

It is

large

one of the large-leafed

and

can also be found wild or under

trees of the rainforest

and near the

and can be

identified

distinctively textured leaves.

Andiroba wood

is soft,

yet durable,

and much sought by sawmills.

It

has, in

the past, been shipped to the United States for use in the furniture industry and for other uses. Its durability

demand

and impalatability

to insects

have guaranteed com-

in all

wood, and as a result, the species has been devastated areas near major towns in Amazonia. It could, however, be cultivated eas-

ily in

the

mercial

nandiroba, requia, tangare, y-andiroba

in the alluvial flats,

cultivation in Brazil in the Islands region, Tocantins, Rio Solimoes,

by

threi

worms

Andiroba

mahogany, iandirova, carapa. carapa. cedro

two to

times daily

marshes, and uplands of the

saruba, bastard

Oil

External: Applied topically

Names:

andiroba, andiroba-

mahogany,

wounds

•

•

Standard Dosage

oil,

for the

Amazon

The andiroba

or other regions of Brazil.

tree

produces

a

bark, leaves

brown, woody, four-cornered nut, some 3-4

inches across that resembles a chestnut. The nut contains several oil-rich kernels or seeds that average about 63 percent

Andiroba in

oil is a

oil,

which

is

pale yellow in color.

sustainable rainforest product that has a long history of use

South America as well as commercial value.

A

single tree will produce,

on

average, about 200 kg of nuts annually. Approximately 6 kg of nuts are required to

produce

1

kg (about

a liter) of

andiroba

oil,

using the traditional extraction

method. This traditional method is efficient, if somewhat primitive. The seeds are collected from rivers, where they float after being shed by trees or from the

They are then boiled in a large pot of water, left for some two weeks until they have rotted, and then squeezed (in a primitive press known as a tipiti) to extract the oil. One consequence of this extraction method is that crude forest floor.

andiroba

oil is

frequently associated with a red coloring that

is

derived from

Rainforest

The Healing Power of

Herbs

172 quickly, it must be oil becomes rancid very the skin of the seeds. Because the manuto immediate use or to the quickly. Local usage is mostly limited

used

facture of soap or candles.

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

used The indigenous peoples in the Amazon have tree, as well centuries, and virtually all parts of the

andiroba

m many ways

as the seed

oil,

or

are utilized

mummification of

oil for the The Munduruku Indians traditionally used the Palikur, and Creole Indian human heads taken as war trophies. The Wayapi, remove ticks from their scalps, for other skin tribes have used andiroba oil to tanning animal hides. The indigenous parasites, and even in the process of into a the bark, and sometimes the leaves, tribes of Northwest Amazonia brew ulcers, also apply this tea externally for they worms; intestinal and fevers for tea

Indians have also used the oil as a solskin parasites, and other skin problems. colorants with which they paint their vent for extracting the plant pigments and Amazon combine andiroba oil with the redskin. Several Indian tribes in the rub the oily bright pigment extracted from annatto seeds. They

dish-orange

to protect themselves over their bodies, and even into their hair, which they are constantly exposed from biting insects and to repel rainwater (to

orange paste

all

in the rainforest).

.

lamp fuel in the ramtores Andiroba oil burns well and is used as a natural Brazil were fueled with andiroba early 1800s, the street lamps of Belem, .

Indians

in

the

use andiroba

Amazon oil

as an

effective insect repellant

and to

kill

skin parasites.

In the

but it also repels moscpiNot only does it burn cleanly with little smoke Brazil forest dwellers and river people m toes, flies, and other pests. Traditional and soap using crude andiroba oil, wood ash,

oil.

called caboclos

make

a medicinal

cocoa skin residue. This soap

is

recommended for the treatment of They also apply andiroba oil directly

especially

skin diseases and as an insect repellent.

with hot water and human milk and digestion, the bark is soaked drop it into the ear for ear infections. To aid meals. water for a day and 1 cup is taken before herbal medicine systems. Many of these uses continue today in the Brazilian either in pure form or mixed Andiroba oil is used by Brazilian city dwellers apply it externally to wounds and with other oils or natural products. They

on

joints to relieve arthritis

bruises, use ically for

natural

it

as a

many

remedy

pain and mix

massage

oil

Liiffa operculata) in 250

ml

is

and natural

m

insect repellant,

and conditions, including prepared by soaking V4 of a

skin diseases in Brazil

it

and employ

psoriasis.

it

top-

A common

cabaciriha (the fruit of

This of hot andiroba oil for several hours.

warm mac-

rheumatism and to caurubbed into the skin to relieve arthritis and preparation is also gargled for sore throats terize wounds. A teaspoon of this also still widely used as an insect and taken internally for coughs. Andiroba is both people and animals. repellent and for treating insect bites for

eration

is

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

The

173

oil is

commercially manufactured into anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,

anti-arthritic,

and

insect repellant soaps as well as turned into candles that are

sold as natural insect repellents. ish that is

chewing

PLANT CHEMICALS

to protect

oil is

wooden

also used in Brazil as a furniture pol-

furniture from termites

and other wood-

insects.

Andiroba stearic,

thought

The

oil is a rich

and

source of essential fatty acids including

linoleic acids.

It

yields

up

to 65 percent

oleic, palmitic,

unsaturated fatty acids and

can contain up to 9 percent linoleic acid. (Linoleic acid has been shown in various studies over the years to lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure,

and provide anti-cancer

benefits.)

All parts of the andiroba tree (including the oil) tastes very bitter. This bit-

terness

is

group of terpene chemicals called

attributed to a

meJiacins,

which are

very similar to the bitter antimalarial chemicals found in other tropical plants.

One

of these meJiacins,

antiparasitic properties

named

gediinin, has recently

and an antimalarial

Chemical analysis of andiroba

oil,

bark,

effect

been documented with

equal to that of quinine.^'^

and leaves has also

identified the pres-

ence of another group of chemicals called limonoids. The anti-inflammatory

and

insect-repellent properties of andiroba oil are attributed to the presence of

these limonoids, including a novel one

Another limonoid called

which has been named andirobin.

epoxi/azadiradione

is

found

in

andiroba

oil; it

has been

documented with in vitro anti-tumor effects (neuroblastoma and osteosarcoma cancer cell lines were tested).^ Main chemicals found in andiroba include andirobin, arachidic acid, acetoxy-gedunins, epoxyazadiradiones, deacetoxygedunins, hydroxylgedunins,

gedunins, hexadecenoic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic

and

stearic acid.

Tests of crude andiroba oil

by Brazilian

acid, palmitoleic acid,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

scientists

have produced evidence of

its

anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties."^ The bark has also demon-

Thus far, at least three chemicals found in andiroba have been found to have antiparasitic and/or insecticidal actions.^'^ A branch of the Brazilian government has been strated in vitro antibacterial activity in another clinical study.'’

examining andiroba's insect-repellant properties^ and insect-repellent product utilizing andiroba

tary

oil. It

will

and other government workers who are exposed

biting

bugs

will

be provided to the milito

mosquitoes and other

in the forests of Brazil. In 1999, a U.S. patent

that andiroba

oil,

when

be producing an

was

filed detailing

applied topically, prevented the formation of cellulite

through a chemical enzyme-blocking action. (Unfortunately, they reported didn't have the ability to get rid of existing cellulite.

)‘^

it

Rainforest Herbs

The Healing Power of

174

Some

Research confirms andiroba’s traditional

uses as an insect repellant as well as for pain and

inflammation.

of the

PRACTICAL USES

on andiroba's anticancerous the seed oil could prevent and even

recent research has focused

that actions. In 2002, researchers reported

dysplasia reverse cervical dysplasia.^o Cervical

is

a

precancerous condition that

In addition, the can oftentimes develop into cervical cancer. shown some activity against sarcoma cancer

and flowers have the crude oil

CURRENT

more

Andiroba

passed a preliminary screening

oil is

well

known

in Brazil

test to predict

leaf,

bark, seeds,

cells in vitro,

anti-tumor

and widely employed

to heal

an

activity.

many

^

skin

In the last several years, several conditions and as a natural insect repellant. Brazilian stores an appeared andiroba oil products sold in capsules have

m

internal healing. North Amerpharmacies and are recommended for cancer and beginning to learn of andiroba s powican practitioners and consumers are just can be applied topically several times erful healing properties. Andiroba oil

daily to rashes, muscle/joint aches ulcers.

It

can also be used by

anti-inflammatory massage It's

al

Traditional

Preparation

also a great natural

itself

and injuries, wounds, insect bites, boils, and healing and or combined with other oils as a

well as placed in the ears for ear infections. place severfor ear mites in dogs and cats: just

oil as

remedy

drops in the affected ears daily for a week.

muscles and joints, liberally apply the For skin conditions, insect bites, and sore oil For ear infections, place two drops of the oil topically several times daily. small glass of warm water is taken the ears. For internal use, 2 ml in a inside

two or three times

Contraindications

Drug

Interactions

None

reported.

None

reported.

daily.

throats. This can also be used as a gargle for sore

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

leprosy, feet (tired), fever, flu, insect bites, itch, for arthritis, coids, chiggers, digestion, problems, tetanus, ulcers, worms parasites, repelling/killing insects, skin

Brazil

lice,

malaria, mites,

diarrhea, ear infections, constipation, cough, cuts, dermatitis, diabetes, for acne, bruises, arthritis, cancer, psoriasis, repelling insects, malaria, muscle aches, pain, parasites, fevers hepatitis, herpes, inflammation, bites, sores, splenitis, throat problems, worms rheumatism, skin diseases, skin rashes, skin ulcers,

Guatemala

as an insect repellent

Guyana

rash, skin problems, ticks, repelling/killing insects, rheumatism, skin for inflammation, muscle pain,

Nicaragua

astringent for diarrhea, skin problems, and as an

Panama

for arthritis

wounds

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

175

Peru

for dermatitis, fever, herpes, skin sores,

Trinidad

for colds, fever,

Venezuela

for itch, leprosy, malaria, parasites, skin problems

Elsewhere

for arthritis, herpes, repelling/killing insects, skin disorders, tetanus

flu, killing

insects,

worms

muscle

pain,

sore

feet,

and as

a

massage

oil

ANNATTO HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

Family; Bixaceae

Genus; 6/xo

Standard Dosage

•

reduces acid

•

reduces inflammation

Seed and Leaves

•

kills

bacteria

•

stops coughing

Leaf Decoction;

•

fights free radicals

•

dries secretions/oils

•

kills

parasites

•

cleanses blood

•

kills

germs

•

soothes membranes

•

increases urination

•

reduces phlegm

•

stimulates digestion

•

reduces fever

•

lowers blood pressure

•

raises

•

mildly laxative

•

heals

•

protects

cup two

'/2

or three times

daily

Seed Powder; 5- 10

mg

twice daily

blood sugar

Species; orellana

Common

Names;

wounds

liver

achiote, achiotec, achiotl,

achote, annatto, urucu, beninoki,

bija,

eroya,

jafara, kasujmba-kelling,

kham

thai,

onoto,

Annatto

a profusely fruiting

is

Approximately

pods

at the

fifty

shrub or small

tree that

grows 5-10

m in height.

seeds grow inside prickly reddish-orange heart-shaped

ends of the branches. The

trees are literally

covered by these brightly

orleanstrauch, orucu axiote, rocou, roucou,

ruku, roucouyer, unane,

uruku, urucum, urucu-uva Parts Used; bark, seeds, leaves, roots, shoots

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

colored pods, and one small annatto tree can produce

seeds are covered with a reddish

known

aril,

which

is

up

to

270 kg of seeds. The

the source of an orange-yellow

and as iiriiciim in Brazil. It grows throughout South and Central America and the Caribbean, and can be found

dye. Annatto

in

some

is

parts of

as achiote in Peru

Mexico as

well.

Traditionally, the crushed seeds are rate.

A

brightly colored paste

and other foods

is

soaked

in

water that

produced, which

is

is

added

allowed

to

evapo-

to soups, cheeses,

them a bright yellow or orange color. Annatto seed South America is exported to North America and Europe, a food coloring for margarine, cheese, microwave popcorn,

to give

paste produced in

where it is used as and other yellow or orange

foodstuffs.

Many

times, this natural food coloring

replaces the very expensive saffron in recipes and dishes around the world.

Annatto paste

employed

is

also used as a natural

dye

for cloth

in the paint, varnish, lacquer, cosmetic,

and wool and

and soap

is

sometimes

industries.

The Healing Power of

176

Although mostly only the seed paste or seed

oil is

used today, the rainforest tribes

have used the

entire plant as medicine

for centuries.

Rainforest Herbs

seeds as Throughout the rainforest, indigenous tribes have used annatto ancient Mayan body paint and as a fabric dye. It has been traced back to the agent in foods, for body paints, Indians, who employed it as a principal coloring only the seed and as a coloring for arts, crafts, and murals. Although mostly tribes have used the or seed oil is used commercially today, the rainforest paste

entire plant as

medicine for centuries.

A tea made with the young shoots is used

an aphrodisiac and astringent, and to treat skin problems, to treat skin problems, liver fevers, dysentery, and hepatitis. The leaves are used good for the digesdisease, and hepatitis. The plant has also been considered

by the Piura

tribe as

tive system.

The Cojedes

bowels and aid

tribe uses

an infusion of the flowers

in elimination as well as to avoid

phlegm

in

to stimulate the

newborn

babies.

Colombia have also used annatto as an antivenin for while the roots are snakebites. The seeds are believed to be an expectorant, thought to be a digestive aid and cough suppressant.

Traditional healers in

Today

in Brazilian herbal

medicine, a leaf decoction of annatto

is

used

to

as a mild heartburn and stomach distress caused by spicy foods, and malaria, and, topically, diuretic and mild laxative. It is also used for fevers and Annatto is a common remedy in Peruvian herbal medicine today,

treat

to treat burns.

and the dried leaves are ten minutes in

1

liter

for called achiotec. Eight to ten dried leaves are boiled

of water for this popular Peruvian remedy.

drunk warm or cold three times daily

after

meals

One cup

to treat prostate disorders

is

and

cystitis, obesity, internal inflammation, arterial hypertension, high cholesterol, decoction is also recomrenal insufficiency, and to eliminate uric acid. This infections, mencied as a vaginal antiseptic and wound healer, as a wash for skin Peruvian and for liver and stomach disorders. Curanderos (herbal healers) in the juice from the fresh leaves and place it in the eye for

Amazon squeeze

the

inflammation and eye infections, and they use the juice of twelve

fruits

taken

twice daily for five days to "cure" epilepsy.

PLANT CHEMICALS

to 45 percent Analysis of annatto seeds indicates that they contain 40 percent to 0.9 percent essential cellulose, 3.5 percent to 5.5 percent sucrose, 0.3 percent to 16 percent fixed oil, 4.5 percent to 5.5 percent pigments, and 13 percent oil,

Bixin,

extracted and used

3

other constituents. percent protein, as well as alpha- and beta-carotenoids and pigments Annatto oil is extracted from the seeds and is the main source of uovbixiu which are classified as carotenoids. Bixin, extracted

named

bixiti

and

against ultraviolet rays and

ultraviolet rays and used as a food colorant, has been shown to protect against research.^-^ and to have antioxidant and liver protective properties in clinical contains bixaghanene, bixein, In addition to bixin and norbixin, annatto

to have antioxidant and

phenylalanine, salicylic acid, bixol, crocetin, ellagic acid, ishwarane, isobixin,

as a

food colorant, has

been shown to protect

liver

protective properties.

threonine, tomentosic acid,

and tryptophan.

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

177

BIOLOGICAL Much has been done in the laboratory validating annatto's traditional uses and ACTIVITIES finding new ones. A water extract of the root has demonstrated hypotensive

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

Peruvian herbal systems have practiced.^ The same extract

activity in rats, as

demonstrated smooth muscle-relaxant tric

which help

secretions in rats,^

activity in

to explain

guinea pigs and lowered gasuse as

its

a digestive aid

stomach disorders. Annatto seed extracts have been documented

some

glucose levels in

and

species of animals

Annatto leaves were reported

study

in yet another

inhibition actions, a process implicated in the

ropathy.^2

A 2000

at neutralizing

used

in

1995

lower them

to raise

blood

in others.

to possess aldose reductase

advancement

of diabetic neu-

hemorrhages

mice injected with snake venom,^^ a practice

in

many years. Annatto demonstrated

for

and

study,^"^

antigonorrheal activ-

flower and leaf extracts

in other research,

demon-

strated in vitro antibacterial activity against several bacteria, including E.

and

for

study confirmed the effectiveness of a leaf-and-bark extract

Colombia

ity in a

to

and

Staphylococcus.^^ This supports

its

coli

use in traditional medicine systems for

gonorrhea and other types of infections.

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

Although not widely available in the United States, standard decoctions of annatto leaves are taken by the half-cupful two or three times daily for prostate and urinary difficulties, as well as for high cholesterol and hypertension.

Ground annatto seed powder

is

also used in small dosages of 10-20

mg

daily

high cholesterol and hypertension. Higher dosages can cause a marked

for

increase in urination. tive to annatto seed

even by

It

and

has been noted that this diuretic effect

bag of popcorn

just eating a

in

some

individuals are highly sensi-

can be caused

at

much lower

which annatto was used as

doses,

a coloring

or flavoring ingredient.

Annatto's history of use as a food coloring current trends

Annatto

oil is

show

that

Tradilional

Preparation

In

adding

South America,

are taken

The seed

being used increasingly

a

its

extract

is

prepared. One-half cup amounts for various conditions.

also used in small dosages (of 5-20

to elevate

it's

one patient

mg

blood sugar levels

therefore contraindicated for people with diabetes.

ing

care products.

body care products, annatto oil provides antioxidant rich, sunny color to creams, lotions, and shampoos.

was reported

allergic reaction of

body

In

two or three times daily with meals is

in

high carotenoid content provides beneficial

a standard leaf decoction

annatto seed powder

Contraindications

is

an emollient, and

antioxidant properties. benefits while

it

well established worldwide, and

is

to bixin, the

A 1991

dye chemical

"a potential rare cause of anaphylaxis."

Ground

daily).

in dogs,

and

it

is

study documents an

in

annatto seeds,

stat-

The Healing Power of

178

Drug

Interactions

None

Rainforest Herbs

reported.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Argentina

for diarrhea, fevers, heart support

Brazil

stomachache, urinary insufficiency for burns, constipation, fevers, heartburn, hepatitis, malaria,

Colombia

as an antivenin, aphrodisiac

Cuba

as an aphrodisiac

Guatemala

for

Haiti

for fever and as a

Mexico

fever, gonorrhea, headache, inflammation, for burns, constipation, digestion, dysentery, epilepsy, erysipelas,

gonorrhea

douche and

insect repellent

insufficiency, vaginitis, malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, sore throat, tumors, urinary

wounds; and

as an

aphrodisiac, astringent, and insect repellent

Paraguay

and insect repellent

as an insecticide

digestion, hypertension, obesity, for conjunctivitis, cystitis, dysentery, epilepsy, fevers, high cholesterol, wounds, and as an antiseptic, aphrodisiac, prostatitis, renal problems, urinary problems, urogenital infections,

Peru

astringent, and dye

disease jaundice, renal insufficiency, sexually transmitted diseases, skin

Trinidad

for diabetes, dysentery,

Elsewhere

parasites, skin disorders, to stop for blood cleansing, cancer, diabetes, dysentery, fever, kidney problems,

flu,

bleeding, and as an aphrodisiac, astringent, dye, and cosmetic

ARTICHOKE HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

Family; Asteraceae

Standard Dosage

•

reduces cholesterol

•

dries secretions

Leaves

•

lowers blood pressure

•

supports heart

Infusion; 1-3 cups daily

•

stimulates bile

•

cleanses blood

Liquid Extract; 2-3 ml with

•

supports

•

increases urination

•

supports gallbladder

•

enhances digestion

•

fights free radicals

•

detoxifies

liver

each meal Tablets/Capsules; 2-3 g three times daily

Standardized Extracts;

Genus; Cynaro

follow label directions

Species; scolymus

Common

Names;

globe artichoke, alcachofra, alcachofera, artichaut, tyosen-azami

Parts Used; leaves, flowers

Alcachofra

is

the Brazilian

name

for the globe artichoke.

A member of the

milk

grows to a height of about 2 m and produces a large, violetgreen flower head. The flower petals and fleshy flower bottoms are eaten as a vegetable throughout the world, which has led to its commercial cultivation in thistle family,

it

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

many

179

parts of South and North America (chiefly California) as well as in

Europe. The artichoke was used as a food and medicine by the ancient Egyptians,

Greeks, and Romans; in Rome, the artichoke

at feasts.

It

was an important menu item

wasn't until the fifteenth century, however, that

it

made

appear-

its

ance throughout Europe.

TRIBAL

Artichoke has been used in traditional medicine for centuries as a specific liver

AND HERBAL

and gallbladder remedy. In Brazilian herbal medicine systems, leaf preparations are used for liver and gallbladder problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, anemia, diarrhea (and elimination in general), fevers, ulcers, and

MEDICINE USES

and gallbladder disorders; in several countries, standardized herbal drugs are manufactured and sold as prescription drugs for high cholesterol and digestive and liver disorders. Other uses around gout. In Europe,

it is

also used for liver

the world include treatment for dyspepsia In Erance, a patent has

been

and chronic albuminuria.

filed that describes

an artichoke extract for

ing liver disease, high cholesterol levels, and kidney insufficiency. In

medicine systems where

it is

employed, artichoke

tion in the liver, increase the flow of bile

contractive

power of

tive, gallbladder,

and

stores in the liver

RIANT CHEMICALS

The artichoke ly to a plant in is

is

is

used

from the gallbladder, and

and detoxify popular for

it,

its

Artichoke

and as

is

herbal

produc-

to increase the

many diges-

also often used to mobilize fatty

a natural aid to

lower cholesterol.

pleasant bitter taste, which

is

attributed most-

chemical called cynarin found in the green parts of the plant. Cynar-

considered one of artichoke's main biologically active chemicals.

in the highest concentration in the leaves of the plant,

are

to increase bile

the bile duct. These bile actions are beneficial in liver disorders.

all

treat-

most commonly employed

in herbal

which

is

It

occurs

why leaf extracts

medicine. Other documented "active"

chemicals include flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, polyphenols, and

caf-

feoylquinic acids. In the 1970s,

Artichoke has plant chemicals

in

it

that help

lower cholesterol and protect the

liver.

cholesterol in

European

humans.

scientists first

Over the

documented cynarin's

years, other researchers

ability to

lower

have continued

to

document artichoke's or cynarin's effect in this area. One study, published in 2000, was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that used an artichoke leaf extract that was standardized to its cynarin content.'^ Eor six weeks, 143 patients with high cholesterol were given the extract; at the end of the test, results showed a decrease of 10-15 percent in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), and ratio of LDL to high-density lipoprotein (HDD cholesterol. Scientists now report that the cholesterol-lowering effect of arti-

choke can be attributed al

to

newly discovered ones.^

chemicals other than just cynarin,^ including sever-

The Healing Power of

80

The

Rainforest

Herbs

first came to the liver detoxifying anci protective properties of artichoke on liver in 1966 (in a study that supported its effect

attention of researchers

regeneration in

rats).^

A 1987 study that

focused on the effects of rat liver

cells

caffeic acids (both subjected to harmful chemical agents found both cynarin and

in artichoke) to

have significant protective

effects.^

acids, Artichoke's main plant chemicals are caffeic acid, caffeoylquinic cynarapicaryophyllene, chlorogenic acid, cyanidol glucosides, cynaragenin, crin, cynaratriol, cynarin, cynarolide, decanal,

eugenol, ferulic acid, flavonoids,

isoamerboin, lauric folacin, glyceric acid, glycolic acid, heteroside-B, inulin, myristic acid, neochloroacid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, luteolin glucosides, pseudotaraxasterol, genic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, phenylacetaldehyde, taraxasterol. scolymoside, silymarin, sitosterol, stearic acid, stigmasterol, and

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

Investigations are

and gallbladder

being conducted on artichoke's beneficial effects on liver

still

functions.

finding noted that an artichoke leaf extract

A 2002

damage done by harmful chemicals

reversed

enhanced

in rat liver cells and, in

doing

so,

bile production.

A portion of artichoke's liver-protective properties is thought to be attributed 2002 study focused on the antioxreported that idant effects of artichoke extract in cultured blood vessel cells and to its

documented antioxidant

the extract demonstrated

actions.

"marked protective properties against oxidative

stress

Artichoke s antioxidant properties induced by inflammatory mediators. were also confirmed in an earlier (2000) study that focused on human white blood cells under various induced oxidative stresses. Clinical studies

A 1999 clinical investigation focused on gallbladder function. It "showed the

confirm

artichoke’s traditional

uses to support liver and gallbladder functions.

and

efficacy

of safety of artichoke extracts {Cynara scolymus L.) in the treatment dysfunction and digestive complaints, such as sensation of full-

hepatobiliary

ness, loss of appetite,

nausea and abdominal pain."^^

notion a step further.

was known

It

sia

and

irritable

bowel syndrome

2000 study took this

was indicated for dysesophagus, duodenum, and upper

that artichoke extract

pepsia, a digestive disorder involving the gastrointestinal tract, but there are

A

many symptom

(IBS).i^

overlaps between dyspep-

A subgroup of patients

with IBS was

from the dyspepsia study group and was monitored for six weeks after artichoke leaf the original study had ended. Of the IBS patients, 96 percent rated administered for extract as better than or at least equal to previous therapies

distilled

their IBS

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

The

symptoms.

history of artichoke

is

a perfect

example of science

finally catching

up

to

scientists still the longstanding traditional uses of a medicinal plant. While argue today over which specific chemical or group of chemicals is responsible for

each documented beneficial action, the traditional uses for high cholesterol.

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

181

as well as for liver, gallbladder,

While many Europeans

still

and digestive disorders, are being validated.

have

to see their doctors for

prescription, concentrated natural leaf extracts

widely available

in the

American trend

to find

will

United States

more

at health

an artichoke extract

and standardized

food stores. With the growing

natural and healthy alternatives, these products

probably gain in popularity as consumers learn more of the most recent

method to control no magic bullets.

research studies. However, the most effective

Traditional

Preparation

with a sensible

diet.

Traditionally,

to 3

1

Unfortunately, there are

cups of a standard

cholesterol

is

leaf infusion are taken daily after meals;

3^ ml

of a concentrated 4:1 liquid extract, or 3-5 g daily of dried herb in capsules or tablets can be substituted, if desired. With standardized extract products, follow the instructions

Contraindications

extracts are

None

on the product

label.

reported for internal use. Dermatitis, following contact with the fresh

plant and leaves, has been reported.

Artichoke has been documented in traditional uses to be hypoglycemic;

however, no

clinical studies

have been published

to

confirm

this action. Dia-

and people with hypoglycemia should use this plant product with cauand monitor their blood sugar levels closely in anticipation of these

betics

tion

possible effects.

Drug

Interactions

Artichoke extracts have been documented to lower blood cholesterol in

and animal studies and, as such, may potentiate the

human

effects of cholesterol-low-

ering and statin drugs.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

for acne, anemia, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, asthma, bile insufficiency, blood cleansing, bronchitis, diabetes,

diarrhea, dyspepsia, digestive disorders, dandruff, fever, flatulence, gallbladder disorders, gallstones, gout,

heart function, hemorrhage, hemorrhoids, high cholesterol, hypertension, hyperglycemia, inflammation,

kidney insufficiency,

liver

disorders, nephritis, obesity, prostatitis, rheumatism, seborriasis, ulcers, urethritis,

urinary disorders, and as an astringent and vasoconstrictor

Dominican

for bile insufficiency, digestive problems, gallbladder disorders

Republic

Europe

high cholesterol, hyperglycemia, for bile insufficiency, cancer, detoxification, dyspepsia, gallbladder disorders,

jaundice, liver disorders, nausea

edema, hypertension, kidney disorders,

liver

problems, urinary insufficiency

Haiti

for

Mexico

for cystitis, gallstones, hypertension, liver disorders

Elsewhere

for diabetes,

edema, rheumatism, urinary

insufficiency

The Healing Power of

182

Rainforest Herbs

AVELOZ HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions •

promotes tumors

•

causes cancer

•

suppresses

•

moderately

Latex

laxative

Not recommended

immune

system •

causes vomiting

•

irritates

•

activates viruses

membranes

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Genus: Euphorbia Species:

tirucalli,

insulana

Common

Names:

aveloz, milkbush, pencil tree,

kayu patah tulang,

kayu

mentulang.

urip,

packing tawa,

tikel

balung,

tulang-tulang. cega-olho,

coral-verde, labirinto, cassoneira, arvore-do lapis,

cassoneira,

garrancho, Indian tree spurge, fingertree,

milkhedge, petroleumplant,

rubber euphorbia,

euphorbe antivenerien, almeidinha, consuelda Parts Used: latex,

branches, roots

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Aveloz

is

growing

a succulent cactus-like plant

duced from Africa as rainforests in the

a

garden plant,

it is

now

to a height of

about 10 m. Intro-

naturalized in tropical areas and

Amazon, Madagascar, and South Africa.

In Africa,

it is

a

com-

growth promotes its use as a natural barbrown, but the younger rier fence. The main trunk and branches are woody and the branches are green and cylindrical, looking like many pencils and earning early, and plant its common name— pencil tree. Leaves are minute and are shed

mon garden

plant and

its

thick rapid

taken over by the green branches. All parts of the Euphorplant ooze a caustic milky white sap when damaged, like many other the function of the leaves

is

bia species.

Aveloz

is

stance very

produces a hydrocarbon sub-

called ''petroleum plant" because

it

much

being studied by Petrobas, the

like gasoline. This plant is

company

national petroleum

in Brazil.

duced by the plant could be used mates of ten

It is

thought that the hydrocarbon pro-

directly in existing gasoline refineries; esti-

per acre of cultivated aveloz with cost

to fifty barrels of oil

estimates of $3-10 per barrel have been postulated.^

In Africa, aveloz

is

snakebite; the latex

is

used

for

ulcers; the seeds

and

regarded as an insect repellant. The root

used

for skin

tumors and syphilis

is

and decoctions of the wood are used for bacterial infections. In Malaysia, the stems are pounded and applied to swellings, and in the Dutch Indies, the pounded stems are used as a poultice to poultice of the root extract thorns. A root infusion is used for aching bones and a is used or leaves is used for nose ulcers and hemorrhoids. A wood decoction latex are

used

for leprosy

latex

is

warts.

and paralysis of the hands and

feet after childbirth. In India, the

asthma, cough, earache, neuralgia, rheumatism, toothache, and decoction c^f the branches or root is used for colic and gastric problems.

used

A

for intestinal parasites;

for

In Brazil, the latex is

used externally

to

remove warts and tumors and

to treat

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

183

rheumatism. The latex

is

diluted in water

and used

internally for snakebite, as

well as benign and cancerous tumors. In Peru, the plant

is

used

much

India, for abscesses, asthma, cancer, colic, cough, earache, neuralgia,

tism, stomachache,

PLANT CHEMICALS

The chemistry

rheuma-

and toothache.

of the plant does not validate

In fact, the plant contains

many

like in

many harmful

any of the herbal medicine

chemicals that

of the traditional uses, especially those for cancer.

a rich source of terpenes, including phorbol esters

phorbol esters are highly

irritating

and have been

make The

it

uses.

unsuitable for

latex of aveioz

and ingenol clinically

esters.^

is

These

documented

to

One particular phorbol in aveioz, 4-deoxyphorbol promote tumors. ester, has been clinically documented to enhance Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, cause DNA damage to immune cells, and cause a suppression of the

actually

immune system Chemicals activate

in

aveioz

dormant

Barr viruses and suppress the

immune

In addition to this

may

Epstein-

system.

in general.^^

one chemical, an extract of aveioz was also shown

reduce the ability of certain

immune

ber of the herpes virus family. as

many as 95

It is

EBV is a memmost common human viruses

cells (T-cells) to kill EBV.^'®

one of the

percent of adults in the United States have been infected at

point in their lives.^ After the

to

initial infection,

EBV

some

establishes a lifelong dor-

immune system (inside of B-cells). EBV infection can lead to mononucleosis, and some EBV carriers will develop cancer, either Burkitt's lymphoma or nasopharyngeal carcinoma.‘^ mant

infection in the

Aveioz contains 4-deoxyphorbol

ester, beta-sitosterol,

caoutchouc, casuariin,

cycloeuphordenol, cyclotirucanenol, ellagic acids, euphorbins, euphol, euphorone, euphorcinol, gallic acids, glucosides, hentriacontane, hentriacontanol, ingenol, isoeuphoral, kamepferol, pedunculagin, phenols, phorbol corilagin,

esters, proteases, putranjivain terol, taraxerin, tirucallol,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

and

A-B, sapogenin tirucallin

A-B.

The studies on aveioz, its chemicals, and EBV were conducted by several research groups who were trying to understand why EBV and Burkitt s lymphoma were endemic in areas where aveioz was widely used as a local rem^ edy (usually for parasites) and/or as a common-living fence in Africa.^ Their research concluded that exposure to the latex of aveioz directly activates latent EBV infections, and exposure to this plant is now considered a

lymphoma.^ Burkitt s lyma non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma associated with EBV, and research, treatment of a Burkitt's lymphoma cell line with the latex

Research indicates that

causative factor in the development of Burkitt

taking aveioz internally

phoma

(for any reason) has no clinical

merit or benefit,

especially for cancer.

acetates, succinic-acid, taraxas-

is

in clinical

of aveioz in

found the

genera 1.^^“^^

latex to reactivate latent

s

EBV and promote tumor growth

The Healing Power of

184

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

Rainforest Herbs

the latex Since the 1970s, aveloz has been promoted as a "cure" for cancer when plant has a folk use for certain is taken internally or used externally. While the

has been more widely used for external tumors. The latex is and caustic and irritating and has been traditionally used to burn off warts possibly skin tumors. Taking the latex of aveloz internally (for any reason) has types of cancer,

no

it

clinical

merit or benefit, especially for cancer.

Aveloz

is

confirmed

to

suppress the

immune

system.® Suppression of the

body less resistant to infections and some cancers, and it is therefore not recommended for cancer patients. Even more important, trigthe latex has also been documented to promote tumor growth and/ or to

immune system makes

the

ger certain cancers. Again, this certainly

is

for cancer patients. Unfortunately, aveloz

sap

still

continues to be touted as a

United States without any merit or scienwith basis. As one group of researchers stated, "cancer management

cancer cure in Brazil and tific

not beneficial, indicated, or prudent

now

in the

Euphorbia tinicaUi presents no scientific basis, at least

up

to the

moment,

since

the phorbol esters have already presented tumor-promoting activity."^

Aveloz

is

not

recommended

as a natural

remedy

for

any reason due

to its

suppression and tumor-promoting properties. It is hoped that the time will come where aveloz will go into our cars as a natural gasoline, rather than into desperate cancer patients who will try anything in

toxicity

and

its

immune

their search for a cure.

Traditional

None recommended.

Preparation

Contraindications

considered a poison and has caused deaths in Africa. Contact of the latex with the eyes can cause blindness. The caustic latex can also cause skin burns, ulcerations, and dermatitis. Taking pure latex internally is known to

The

latex

is

induce hemorrhages and stomach ulcers. Used internally, even in small quansuch as tities and in diluted form, the latex can cause digestive disturbances nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, internal use of the latex may cause

burning and ulceration of the mouth and

Drug

Interactions

None

throat.

reported.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Africa

for parasites, sexual impotence, snakebite, syphilis,

Asia

for broken bones, hemorrhoids, pain, swellings, ulceration

tumors

185

Medicinal Plants of the Annazon

for abscess, asthma, bacterial infections, cancer, constipation, fungal infections, rheumatism, scorpion bite,

Brazil

snakebite, spasms, syphilis, tumor, viruses, warts, and as an expectorant and irritant

nose ulcers,

Dutch Indies

for

India

for abscess, asthma, colic, constipation, cough, earache, gastralgia, neuralgia, rheumatism, syphilis, toothache,

bone aches, hemorrhoids,

leprosy,

paralysis,

thorns

warts

Peru

for abscesses, asthma, cancer, colic, cough, earache, neuralgia, rheumatism, stomachache, toothache

Elsewhere

for dermatosis, paralysis, pain, poisoning

AVENCA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

Family; Adiantaceae

Genus: Adiantum

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions •

suppresses coughs

•

dries secretions

Leaves or rhizome

•

reduces phlegm

•

protects

Infusion: V2

•

kills

viruses

•

reduces cholesterol

Tincture: 1-3 ml twice daily

•

kills

bacteria

•

reduces blood pressure

Capsules/Tablets: 2 g twice

•

detoxifies

•

stimulates

•

fights free radicals

•

supports gallbladder

•

supports heart

•

heals

•

cleanses blood

•

increases urination

•

lowers blood sugar

•

stimulates menstruation

liver

cup twice

daily

daily

Species: capillus-veneris

Common

Names:

avenca, maidenhair fern,

wounds

adianto, alambrillo, barun,

cabello de venus, capilera, capille e jenere, celantillo,

centaurea,

cilantrillo,

culandrillo, culantrillo

de

pozo, culantrillo. fern karn

dam, frauenhaar, helecho

hansraj,

culantrillo,

herba

capillorum veneris, ladies’ hair,

venus hair fern

Parts Used: leaves,

rhizome

Avenca moist

is

slow-growing evergreen fern found throughout the world in reaches 35 cm tall, growing in stands from its creeping rhizome,

a small,

forests.

It

and bears leaves up zon as well as

in the

to 50

cm

long.

It

can be found in the rainforests of the

more temperate, moist

United States (where

it

is

commonly

forests of

Ama-

Southern Europe and the

referred to as funidcuhnir fcni).

It is

called

Peru and nvcucci in Brazil. These days avenca can be found in many fern for plant stores and nurseries, where it is sold as an ornamental landscape

culcnitt'illo in

shade gardens.

TRIBAl.

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Peruvian Amazon, local people prepare the fronds of the plant as an infuand to calm coughs, to sion or syrup and use it as a diuretic, as an expectorant promote perspiration and menstruation, and to treat urinary disorders, colds, In the

rheumatism, heartburn, gallstones, alopecia (hair

loss),

and sour stomach.

In

The Healing Power of

86

the highlands of the Peruvian Andes, local shanaans

Rainforest Herbs

and healers decoct the

rhi-

zome and use it for alopecia, gallstones, and jaundice. In the Brazilian Amazon, used for bronchitis, coughs, and it is recommended as a good expectorant and other respiratory problems.

Avenca has long held

Avenca’s history of use in

herbal medicine for

respiratory problems

dates back to 23 A.D.

a place in herbal

medicine systems worldwide. In

European herbal medicine, its documented use predates the era of Dioscorides and Pliny (23-79 A.D.). According to the well-known British herbalist Nicholas Culpepper (1787 ed.), "This and all other Maiden Hair Ferns is a good remedy for coughs, asthmas, pleurisy, etc.,

and on account of

its

being a gentle diuret-

and other impurities of the kidneys." In France, the fronds and rhizomes were once made into a syrup called "Sirop de Capillaire, which was a favorite medicine for upper respiratory problems such as coughs and excessive mucus. The plant is also used widely throughout the world for

ic

also in jaundice, gravel

dandruff, hair loss, and menstrual difficulties.

employed for hair appetite loss, coughs, bronchitis, laryngitis and throat dryness, and to improve and digestion, stimulate renal function, regulate menstruation, and facilitate In Brazilian herbal medicine today, the frond

and

leaf are

Peruvian herbal medicine, the frond and rhizome are used for hair gallstones, hepatic calculi, hydrophobia, asthma, coughs, catarrh, and to

childbirth. In loss,

regulate menstruation. In India, the entire plant for diabetes, colds, bronchial disease, ties.

PLANT CHEMICALS

Externally

it

is

used for

boils,

and

for its

is

used

for its cooling effects,

menstrual-promoting proper-

eczema, and wounds.

Chemical analysis of avenca reveals an array of compounds including triterpenes, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and carotenoids. Interestingly, despite its ancient use, there has been no specific research on avenca to isolate and test its chemicals for biological

activities.

Adiantone, adiantoxide, astragalin, beta-sitosterol, caffeic acids, caffeylgalactose, caffeylglucose, campesterol, carotenes, coumaric acids, coumarylglucoses, diplopterol, epoxyfilicane, fernadiene, fernene, filicanes, hopanone, hydroxy-adiantone, hydroxy-cinnamic acid, isoadiantone, isoquercetin, kaemp-

mutatoxanthin, naringin, neoxanthin, nicotiflorin, oleananes,

ferols, lutein,

populnin, procyanidin, prodelphinidin, quercetins, querciturone, quinic acid, rhodoxanthin, rutin, shikimic acid, violaxanthin, and zeaxanthin are chemicals

found

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

in avenca.

The plant has demonstrated been shown in India

to

have an

little toxicity.

preventing conception.

in

animal studies,

it

has

two separate researchers the plant had an anti-implantation

anti-fertility effect. In the 1980s,

found that a pet ether extract of

effect in rats,

However,

Medicinal Plants of the Annazon

In 1989, scientists in Irac]

Avenca’s tested antibacterial effects

and

may

antiviral

explain

its

long-standing use for

colds and

flu.

187

demonstrated avenca's antimicrobial properties.^

A methanol extract of the aerial

parts

was reported

have

to

in vitro

antimicro-

bial actions against Bacillus, £. coli, Staphylococcus, Proteus, Pseudomonas,

and

Candida. French scientists demonstrated that an ethanol extract of the rhizome

evidenced antiviral properties early (1967) research

glycemic activity

showed

when given

in vitro

against Vesicular stomatitis

virus."^

that a water extract of the entire plant to

mice (10 mg/kg)

orally.^

Belgian scientists confirmed that avenca leaves had

Much

in vivo

mice (25 mg/kg) orally and found

glycemia.^

to

had hypo-

later (in 1993),

hypoglycemic

properties in mice. In one study, a water extract of the aerial parts to

Other

was given

reduce glucose-induced hyper-

An ethanol extract, however, showed no activity. They reconfirmed

these findings in 1995

by demonstrating

that a water extract

reduced glucose-

induced hyperglycemia.^

CURRENT

Despite the plant's ancient history of use for respiratory disorders, no clinical

PRACTICAL USES

research has been done to validate these traditional uses. In spite of the lack of

and healthcare practitioners throughout the world continue to use the plant based on its traditional uses (for literally thousands of years): for respiratory disorders and hair loss, and to reg-

scientific research

done on avenca,

herbalists

ulate menstruation.

Traditional

Preparation

Contraindications

One-half cup leaf infusion can be taken twice daily or 1-3 ml of a desired, 1-2 g of capsules twice daily can be substituted. ture used twice daily.

If

powdered

4:1

root tinc-

leaf or root in tablets or

Avenca has been documented to lower blood sugar levels in animal studies. People with diabetes and people with hypoglycemia should use this plant with caution and monitor their blood sugar levels accordingly.

Avenca has

a long history of use in herbal

uterus and promote menstruation;

The plant has shown

to

it is

medicine systems

to stimulate the

contraindicated in pregnancy.

have an anti-implantation

and may prevent conception. Couples seeking

fertility

effect in

animal studies

treatment or pregnancy

should not take avenca.

Due effects

on fertility and menstruation, avenca may have estrogen-like and should probably be avoided by women with estrogen-positive to its effect

cancers.

Drug

Interactions

Avenca may potentiate insulin and antidiabetic drugs.

The Healing Power of

188

Rainforest Herbs

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

respiratory problems, urinary disorders, for blood cleansing, coughs, excessive mucus, menstrual problems, urinary insufficiency, and to increase perspiration

Brazil

Egypt

flu, hair loss, kidney problems, laryngitis, for asthma, bronchitis, childbirth, cough, digestion, excessive mucus, insufficiency, and to stimulate menstrual disorders, respiratory problems, rheumatism, throat (sore), urinary

for asthma, chest colds, cough, edema,

flu,

hepatitis, snakebite, spider bite, splenitis, urinary insufficiency,

and

to increase perspiration

England

disorders, pleurisy, shortness of breath, for asthma, cough, hair loss, jaundice, kidney stones, menstrual swellings, urinary insufficiency, yellow jaundice

Europe

detoxification, diabetes, excessive mucus, for alcoholism, bronchitis, bronchial diseases, cough, dandruff, hair loss, menstrual problems,

flu,

and to sooth mucous membranes

India

problems, skin diseases, for boils, bronchial diseases, colds, diabetes, eczema, fever, menstrual

Iraq

for bronchitis, colds, cough, excessive mucus,

flu,

menstrual disorders, respiratory

difficulty,

wounds

reducing

secretions, urinary insufficiency, and to increase perspiration

Mexico

hair loss, kidney stones, liver function, for birth control, bladder problems, blood cleansing, constipation,

menstrual disorders, respiratory distress

Peru

for asthma, colds, cough, congestion, excessive mucus,

flu,

gallstones, hair loss, heartburn, hydrophobia, liver

problems, urinary insufficiency, problems, menstrual disorders, respiratory problems, sore throat, stomach

and to increase perspiration coughs, excessive mucus, fever,

lung problems, menstrual disorders, menstrual pain,

United

for

States

respiratory ailments, sclerosis (spleen), sores, urinary insufficiency, and to sooth

chills,

flu,

increase perspiration

Rain clouds gathering over the rainforest.

membranes and

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

189

BALSAM OF PERU

/

BALSAM OF TOLU

HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions •

kills

bacteria

•

reduces inflammation

Gum

•

kills

fungi

•

reduces phlegm

Internal:

•

kills

parasites

•

suppresses coughs

•

kills

germs

or Oil

5-8 drops twice

daily

External: Apply to affected area.

Family: Fabaceae

Genus: Myroxylon

Balsam of tolu {Myroxylon balsamum), ica, is

found predominantly

in

a

pereirae

sam

of Peru (M. pereirae)

is

Names:

A closely

related species called bal-

native to Central America farther north. Balsam of

Peru was named such because

Common

South Amer-

Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, and some areas of

Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Species: balsamum,

tree native to northern

tall

it

was

originally assembled

and shipped

Europe from the ports of Callao and Lima, Peru, but the species

is

to

not indige-

Balsam of Peru, Balsam of tolu, Peru balsam, tolu balsam, balsamo,

de

tolu,

baume

pau de balsamo,

tache, estoraque,

cabreuva veremelha, nabal, chirraca, sadalo

Parts Used: resin, bark

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

nous

to Peru.

Both trees grow up to 35

m in height and produce white flowers and winged

seedpods. Balsam trees are tapped like rubber trees to collect their resinlike

gums

that are

used commercially and sold as "balsam."

A tree must be at least

gum, and one tree produces only about 3 kg of gum annually. Today, El Salvador is the main exporter of balsam of Peru (exporting approximately 50 metric tons annually), and Colombia and Venezuela are the main producers of balsam of tolu. The gum has a vanilla-like smell and taste and is used as a food additive and flavoring in cough syrups, soft drinks, confectioneries, and chewing gums. twenty years old before

it

can be tapped for

its

The indigenous tribes of Mexico and Central America use the leaves and fruit of M. pereirae for asthma, colds and flu, rheumatism, and external wounds. The Choco Indians use the powdered bark as an underarm deodorant. The sap of M. balsatnum has documented indigenous uses for colds and lung ailments, and Amazon rainforest tribes have employed it for abscesses, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, headache,

rheumatism, sores, sprains, tuberculosis, sexually transmit-

and wounds. The indigenous use of balsam of Peru led to its export to Europe in the seventeenth century, where it was first documented in the German Pharmacopeia. It was used as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic agent in cases of scadiaper rash, and bies, ringworm, lice, superficial ulcerations, wounds, bedsores, ted diseases,

Balsam has been listed as

officially

an herbal drug

in

the U.S. Pharmacopoeia since the early treat bronchitis

1

800s to

and other

respiratory problems.

chilblains. In Britain,

inflammation of the nally for

balsam

is

used topically

skin), pruritus,

asthma and bronchitis and

for scabies, prurigo (chronic

and acute eczema, as well as taken to generally lessen

mucous

inter-

secretions.

The Healing Power of

190

Balsam of Peru has been

mented uses

in the

US. Pharmacopeia

for bronchitis, laryngitis,

Rainforest

Herbs

since 1820, with docu-

dysmenorrhea, diarrhea, dysentery, and

used extensively in topical preparations for the treatantidandruff ment of wounds, ulcers, and scabies. It can be found in hair tonics, fragrance in soaps, preparations, and feminine hygiene sprays and as a natural was also included in detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. Balsam of tolu

leucorrhea. Today,

it

is

AdditionalUS. Pharmacopeia in 1820 with similar uses as balsam of Peru. aid used in cough lozenges and ly, it is a cough suppressant and respiratory respiratory ailments. The syrups, for sore throats, and as a vapor inhalant for the

internal

PLANT CHEMICALS

dosage

is

reported to be to

1

times daily. g taken three

to 28 perBalsam contains 50 percent to 64 percent volatile oil and 20 percent acid esters. The bencent resin. The volatile oil contains benzoic and cinnamic constituents of the zoic and cinnamic acids are believed to be the main active

extractcontains about 60 percent cinnamein, a volatile oil that is cosmetic, and ed by steam distillation and used commercially in the perfume,

resin.

The

oil

soap industries. alphachemicals are found in balsam of Peru: alpha-bourbonene, alpha-muurocadinene, alpha-calacorene, alpha-copaene, alpha-curcumene, alpha-pinene, benzaldehyde, benzoic, benzoic-acids, benzyl-alcohol,

Many

lene,

betabenzyl-benzoate, benzyl-cinnamate benzyl-ferulate, benzyl-isoferulate, bourbonene, beta-elemene, cadalene, calamenene, caryophyllene, cinnamalde-

cinnamyl-cinnamate, hyde, cinnamein, cinnamic-acids, cinnamyl-benzoate, dihycis-ocimene, coumarin, d-cadinene, dammaradienone, delta-cadinene, hydroxdromandelic-acid, eugenol, farnesol, ferulic-acid, gamma-muurolene,

yhopanone,

1-cadinol, methyl-cinnamate, nerolidol, oleanolic-acid,

p-cymene,

toluresperuresinotannol, peruviol, resin, styrene, sumaresinolic-acid, tannin,

inotannol-cinnamate, vanillin, and wax.

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

Balsam of Peru and balsam of tolu have been documented to have antiseptic, promote the growth of antiparasitic, and antibacterial properties as well as to inhibit Mycobacteriepithelial (tissue) cells.^"^ The plants have been reported to

um

tuberculosis^ as well as the

common

ulcer-causing bacteria H. pylorP in

test-

tube studies. Although having beneficial properties, research

shows cause in

that balsam can

allergic skin

rashes

some people when used

topically.

published in recent years indicate that balsam can reported are cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic reactions with skin rashes and dermatitis when the balsam comes into contact

At

least six clinical studies

generally the skin

body

—even

in small

amounts found

in soaps,

perfumes, and other

the care products. These allergic reactions are attributed to

acids, to

which some people are highly

sensitive.

common

gum's benzoic

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

191

Balsam of Peru and balsam of ral

widely available

tolu are

products market. The resinous gum, or the essential

gum,

in the U.S. natu-

oil distilled

from the

sold in small bottles and used topically, in aromatherapy, and taken

is

internally in small amounts. Generally,

and skin

rashes, eczema,

It is

its

topical use

parasites. In aromatherapy,

opening, and comforting and mulas.

now

is

used

in various

is

recommended

it is

for skin

considered warming,

nervous tension and

stress for-

taken internally (5-10 drops) for upper respiratory problems and

excessive mucus.

Traditional

Preparation

For topical use, mix

example, mix oil

part balsam

gum

—

with 3 parts of a carrier oil for teaspoon of balsam with 3 teaspoons of almond or grape seed

1

— and apply

it

1

wounds,

topically to

or

oil

rashes, or skin parasites twice daily. For

internal use, place 5 drops of the essential oil in a small glass of

and take twice daily

Contraindications

for excessive

Balsam has been reported

to

mucus and upper

warm

water

respiratory problems.

cause allergic skin reactions. Discontinue use

if

skin rash develops.

Drug Interactions

None known.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

for abscesses, asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis,

flu,

headache, rheumatism, sexually transmitted diseases, sores, sprains,

wounds wounds:

Caledonia

for bronchitis, cough, skin sores,

Dominican

for excessive mucus, digestion, sores,

also used

in

perfumes

wounds

Republic

Europe

for bacterial infections, cancer, chilblains, fungal infections, ulcers,

Mexico

lice,

parasites, scabies, skin rash, skin problems,

wounds

for asthma, bronchitis, colic,

flu,

freckles, gout, itch, menstrual problems, osteomyelitis, parasites,

rheumatism, ringworm, scabies, sexually transmitted diseases, sores, spasm, stomachache, tumor, urinary insufficiency,

worms perfumes

South Africa

for bronchitis, colds, coughs; used as an antiseptic, expectorant, and

United

leucorrhea, laryngitis, for bronchitis, coughs, dandruff, diarrhea, dysmenorrhea, dysentery, hair support,

States

respiratory ailments, scabies, sore throat, wounds, ulcers, and as a natural fragrance

Elsewhere

for asthma, bacterial infections, coughs, digestion,

flu,

in

in

skin care products

headache, inflammation, respiratory problems,

and rheumatism, sclerosis, sexually transmitted diseases, topical cleanser, tuberculosis, umbilicus,

deodorants

in

a

The Healing Power of

192

Rainforest Herbs

BITTER MELON HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions •

bacteria

•

reduces inflammation

Leaves, Fruit

kills

•

viruses

•

fights free radicals

Decoction:

kills

•

kills

cancer

•

enhances

•

kills

leukemia

•

cleanses blood

prevents tumors

•

•

dries secretions

•

•

prevents ulcers

detoxifies

•

treats diabetes

•

expels

•

reduces blood sugar

•

balances

•

reduces blood pressure

•

enhances immunity

•

stimulates digestion

•

kills

•

lowers body temperature

•

mildly laxative

•

promotes milk flow

cells cells

two times

libido

cup one or

1

daily

Tincture: 1—3 ml twice daily

Tablets/Capsules:

1

g twice

daily

Family; Cucurbitaceae

Genus: Momordica

worms hormones

insects

Species; charantio

in tropical areas, including parts of the

Common

Names:

Bitter

melon grows

melon,

papailla,

Asia,

and the Caribbean, and

bitter

melao de sao caetano, bittergourd, balsam apple,

balsam pear, karela, k'u kua kurela, kor-kuey, ku gua, pava-aki, salsamino, sorci, sorossi, sorossie,

sorossies, pare, peria laut,

peria

Parts Used;

whole fruit,

plant,

seed

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

and medicine.

It's

is

Amazon,

cultivated throughout South

a slender, climbing

east Africa,

America as

a food

annual vine with long-stalked leaves and

and female flowers borne in the leaf axils. The fruit looks warty gourd, usually oblong and resembling a small cucumber. The

yellow, solitary male like a

young ty,

fruit is

emerald green, turning

to

orange-yellow

the fruit splits into three irregular valves that curl

when

ripe.

backwards and release scarlet arils. The Latin

numerous reddish-brown or white seeds encased in name Momordica means "to bite," referring to the jagged edges which appear as fruit, taste

In the

very

Amazon,

if

At maturi-

of the leaves,

they have been bitten. All parts of the plant, including the

bitter.

local

people and indigenous tribes grow

bitter

melon

m their

and/or leaves to beans and remove soup for a bitter or sour flavor; parboiling it first with a dash of salt may some of the bitter taste. Medicinally, the plant has a long history of use by the gardens

for

food and medicine. They add the

fruit

intesindigenous peoples of the Amazon. A leaf tea is used for diabetes, to expel antiviral for measles, hepatitis, tinal gas, to promote menstruation, and as an

and feverish conditions. It is used topically for sores, wounds, and infections, and internally and externally for worms and parasites. for tumors, wounds, In Brazilian herbal medicine, bitter melon is used rheumatism, malaria, vaginal discharge, inflammation, menstrual problems, abortions and as an diabetes, colic, fevers, and worms. It is also used to induce

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

193

aphrodisiac.

It is

prepared into a topical remedy for the skin to

treat vaginitis,

hemorrhoids, scabies, itchy rashes, eczema, leprosy, and other skin problems. In Mexico, the entire plant

is

used

for diabetes

and dysentery; the root

is

a

reputed aphrodisiac. In Peruvian herbal medicine, the leaf or aerial parts of the plant are used to treat measles, malaria, and

Nicaragua, the leaf

is

commonly used

for

all

types of inflammation. In

stomach pain, diabetes,

fevers, colds,

coughs, headaches, malaria, skin complaints, menstrual disorders, aches and pains, hypertension, infections,

PLANT CHEMICALS

and as an aid

in childbirth.

melon contains an array of biologically active plant chemicals including triterpenes, proteins, and steroids. One chemical has clinically demonstrated the ability to inhibit the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which is thought to be linked to the cause of psoriasis and also necessary for the growth of leukemia and cancer cells. In addition, a protein found in bitter melon, momordin, has Bitter

clinically

demonstrated anticancerous

activity against

Hodgkin's lymphoma

in

animals.^ Other proteins in the plant, alpha- and beta-momorcharin and cucurbitacin B,

have been tested

for possible anticancerous effects.

A chemical

ana-

melon proteins has been developed, patented, and named "MAP-30"; its developers reported that it was able to inhibit prostate tumor growth.^ Two of these proteins alpha- and beta-momorcharin have also been log of these bitter

—

—

reported to inhibit

ed

cells treated

HIV

virus in test tube studies.^°“^^ In one study, HIV-infect-

with alpha- and beta-momorcharin showed a nearly complete

loss of viral antigen while healthy cells

were largely unaffected.

The inventor

MAP-30 filed another patent which stated it was "useful for treating tumors Another clinical study showed that MAP-30's antiviral and HIV infections. of

was also relative to numerous studies, at

activity Anticancerous,

antiviral,

and hypoglycemic chemicals are present bitter

melon, which explain

many

in

may

of

its

traditional uses.

In

in all parts of bitter

the herpes virus in

vitro.^'^

least three different

melon have

clinically

groups of constituents found

demonstrated hypoglycemic (blood

sugar-lowering) properties or other actions of potential benefit against diabetes

These chemicals that lower blood sugar include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantins, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. The hypoglycemic effect is more pronounced in the fruit of bitter melon where mellitus.^^"^*^

these chemicals are found in greater abundance.

Alkaloids, charantin, charine, cryptoxanthin, cucurbitins, cucurbitacins, cucurbitanes, cycloartenols, diosgenin, elaeostearic acids, erythrodiol, galacturonic acids, gentisic acid, goyaglycosides, goyasaponins, guanylate cyclase inhibitors, gypsogenin, hydroxytryptamines, karounidiols, lanosterol, lauric acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, nol,

momorcharasides, momorcharins, momorde-

momordicilin, momordicins, momordicinin, momordicosides, momordin,

multiflorenol, myristic acid, nerolidol, oleanolic acid, oleic acid, oxalic acid.

The Healing Power of

194

Rainforest

Herbs

proteins, ribosome-inacpentadecans, peptides, petroselinic acid, polypeptides, spinasterol, steroidal glycosides, tivating proteins, rosmarinic acid, mbixanthin, inhibitors, uracil, stigmasta-diols, stigmasterol, taraxerol, trehalose, trypsin riboside, zeaxanthin, and vacine, v-insulin, verbascoside, vicine, zeatin, zeatin

zeinoxanthin are

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

all

found

in bitter

melon.

have demonstrated the blood sugar-lowthe ability to enhance ering effect of this bitter fruit. The fruit has also shown insulin release, and to potentiate the cells' uptake of glucose,^^ to promote bitter melon fruit and/or seed effect of insulin.26-27 in other in vivo studies, elevated cholesterol has been shown to reduce total cholesterol. In one study, after ten weeks and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats were returned to normal

To date, close

to 100 in vivo studies

of treatment.^^

More

than 100 studies

with animals and indicate bitter

humans

melon can

lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

of the studies have demonstrated the antitumorous activity the growth of bitter melon. In one study, a water extract blocked

in vivo

Several

entire plant of

rat prostate carcinoma;^

another study reported that a hot water extract of the

entire plant inhibited the

ous

in vitro

development of

mammary

tumors

in mice.'

studies have also demonstrated the anticancerous

and antileukemic

melon against numerous cell lines, including human leukemia, melanoma, and solid sarcomas.

activity of bitter

Bitter

melon,

mented with

like several of its isolated plant chemicals, also

in vitro antiviral activity

Epstein-Barr, herpes,

and HIV

against

viruses.

Numer-

liver cancer,

has been docu-

viruses, including

numerous

In an in vivo study, a leaf extract

effect in increased resistance to viral infections and had an immune-stimulant and animals, increasing interferon production and natural killer cell

humans

activity.^^

melon have demonIn addition to these properties, leaf extracts of bitter extracts of the leaves strated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Various Staphylococcus, in vitro antibacterial activities against E. coli, have demonstrated

Pseudomonas, Salmonella,

Streptohacilliis

and

Streptococcus,'^^

an extract of the

was shown to have antiprotozoal activity against Entamoeba hisThe fruit and fruit juice have demonstrated the same type of antibac-

entire plant tolytica

terial

activity properties and, in another study, a fruit extract demonstrated

pylorid^ against the stomach ulcer-causing bacteria Helicobacter Many in vivo clinical studies have demonstrated the relatively

of

all

parts of the bitter

even death

in laboratory

orally.

animals has been reported

However,

when

toxicity

toxicity

and

extracts are injected

Other studies have shown extracts of the fruit and leaf (ingest however, have demonto be safe during pregnancy.*^^'*^*^ The seeds, the root has been ability to induce abortions in rats and mice, and

intravenously.*^^

ed orally)

melon plant when ingested

low

strated the

Medicinal Plants of the Annazon

195

documented as a uterine stimulant in animalsd^”^^ The fruit and leaf of bitter melon have demonstrated an in vivo anti-fertility effect in female animals;"^^'^^ and in male animals, to affect the production of sperm negatively.^^

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

Over the years, scientists have verified many of the traditional uses of this plant, which continues to be an important natural remedy in herbal medicine systems. Bitter melon capsules and tinctures are becoming more widely available in the

United States and are employed by natural health practitioners

for dia-

and flu, cancer and tumors, high cholesterol, and psoriasis. Concentrated fruit and seed extracts can be found in capsules and tablets, as well as whole herb /vine powders and extracts in capsules and tinctures.

betes, viruses, colds

Traditional

Preparation

whole herb decoction is taken one or two times daily, or 1-3 ml of a 4:1 tincture is taken twice daily. Powdered leaf in tablets or capsules 1 to 2 g daily can be substituted, if desired. The traditional South American remedy for diabetes is to juice 1-2 fresh bitter melon

V2 to

Traditionally,

1

cup of a standard

—

fruits

and drink twice

leaf or

—

For seed or

daily.

fruit extracts in

capsules or tinctures,

follow the label instructions.

Contraindications

Bitter

melon

traditionally has

stimulant activity; therefore,

been used as an abortive and has weak uterine

it is

contraindicated during pregnancy.

This plant has been documented to reduce

fertility in

both males and females

and should therefore not be used by those undergoing

fertility

treatment or

seeking pregnancy.

The

active chemicals in bitter

therefore,

in

it

is

contraindicated in

melon can be transferred through breast milk;

women who

are breastfeeding.

All parts of bitter

melon

numerous

studies that they lower blood sugar levels.

in vivo

(especially the fruit

and seed) have demonstrated

As

such,

it is

contraindicated in persons with hypoglycemia. Diabetics should check with their physicians before using this plant,

and use with caution while monitoring

blood sugar levels regularly, as the dosage of insulin medications

their

may

need adjusting.

Although ity,

all

parts of the plant have demonstrated active antibacterial activ-

none has shown

may

activity against fungi or yeast.

Long-term use of

this plant

result in the killing of friendly bacteria with resulting opportunistic over-

growth of yeast (Candida). Cycling off the use of the plant (every twenty-one to thirty days for one week) may be warranted, and adding probiotics to the diet may be beneficial if this plant is used for longer than thirty days.

Drug

Interactions

Bitter

melon may potentiate

ering drugs.

insulin

and antidiabetic drugs and cholesterol-low-

The Healing Power of

196

Rainforest Herbs

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

hemorrhoids, diabetes, diarrhea, eczema, fever, flu, for abortions, burns, colic, constipation, dermatosis, menstrual problems, libido, liver inflammation, malaria, hepatitis, hives, itch, impotency, leprosy, leukemia, pain,

vaginitis,

rheumatism, scabies, skin problems, tumor, vaginal discharge,

v^orms,

wounds

China

renal insufficiency, kidney problems for breast cancer, diabetes, fever, halitosis, impotency,

Cuba

problems, intestinal parasites, kidney stones, liver for anemia, colitis, diabetes, fever, hyperglycemia, menstrual problems,

sterility (female),

worms

and as an fever, liver diseases, skin problems, rhinitis, for anemia, constipation, dermatosis, eye infections,

Haiti

appetite stimulant and insecticide

hemorrhoids, diabetes, eczema, fat loss, food, fever, gout, for abortions, birth control, constipation, parasites, jaundice, kidney stones, eprosy, iver hydrophobia, hyperglycemia, increasing milk flow, intestinal rheumatism, scabies, skin problems, snakebite, vaginal disorders, menstrual disorders, pneumonia, psoriasis,

India

discharge

dermatosis, diarrhea, headache, intestinal parasites. for abdominal pain, asthma, burns. Celiac disease,

Malaysia

Stomachache,

worms

bowel function, burns, diabetes, dysentery, impotency,

libido, scabies, sores,

worms

Mexico

for

Nicaragua

infections, cough, diabetes, fever, headache, hypertension, for aches, anemia, childbirth, colds, constipation, skin problems lung disorders, malaria, pain, pregnancy, rashes,

Panama

for colds, diabetes, fever,

flu,

malaria, menstrual problems, and gallbladder problems, hives, hypertension, itch,

as an insecticide

Peru

parasites, lung diarrhea, fever, hepatitis, inflammation, intestinal for colic, constipation, contusions, diabetes, pus, wounds problems, malaria, measles, menstrual problems, skin sores,

Trinidad

malaria, rheu matism, for diabetes, dysentery, fever, hypertension,

worms

BOLDO HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Main Actions

Family;

Monimiaceae

Standard Dosage

•

supports heart

Leaves

•

stimulates

Infusion: '6

•

reduces gas

•

moderately laxative

supports gallbladder

•

reduces inflammation

•

cleanses blood

•

reduces spasms

•

expels

•

relieves pain

•

kills

•

increases urination

•

stimulates digestion

•

protects

•

detoxifies liver

•

stimulates bile

•

liver

worms

parasites

Genus: Peumus Species: boldus

Other Actions

cup one or two

times daily Tincture: 2-4 ml twice daily

Capsules/Tablets:

twice daily

I

-2 g

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

Common

Boldo

Names:

boldo. boidu, boldus,

boldoa, boldina, baldina,

molina

197

a slow-growing,

is

shrubby evergreen

produces small, berry-like female, and only one sex

tree that

grows 6-8

m in height and

The plant's scented flowers are either male or found on any one plant; as such, male and female

fruit.

is

must be grown together for the plants to reproduce. Boldo is found in the Andean regions of Chile and Peru, and also is indigenous to parts of Morocplants

Part Used; leaves

co.

medicinal leaves in

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

and North Africa to meet the demand for its European and Canadian markets, where it is widely used.

cultivated in

It is

Italy, Brazil,

Indigenous uses of boldo have been widely documented. Legend has

it

that the

medicinal uses of the plant were discovered by chance: a Chilean shepherd noticed that his sheep were healthier and had fewer liver problems,

grazed on native boldo plants growing

intestinal

worms,

tion, flatulence,

eral tonic. For

used

It is

rheumatism,

and as

it is

and the bark has been used

constipa-

considered a gen-

the fruit has been eaten as a spice, the

boldo leaves are used by indigenous stones,

bowel, and

cystitis, colds, hepatitis,

poor digestion, gallstones, earaches, and

for charcoal,

liver,

also widely used in Chilean folk medicine to expel

for insomnia,

many years,

they

in his fields. Since this discovery, the

plant has been used by the indigenous peoples of Chile for

gallbladder troubles.

when

wood

has been

in tanning hides. In parts of Peru,

tribes against liver diseases, to treat gall-

a diuretic.

Boldo's uses in other traditional medicine systems are well documented.

Worldwide, the plant

ment

used

is

in

homeopathy and herbal medicine

in the treat-

of digestive disorders, as a laxative, a diuretic, for liver problems,

increase the production of bile in the gallbladder. intestinal

worms, and botanist

Dr.

and

to

The leaves are used against

James Duke reports

its

traditional use for

urogenital inflammations, gonorrhea, syphilis, gout, jaundice, dyspepsia,

rheumatism, head colds, and earaches. In Brazilian herbal medicine systems, boldo

is

used

for a variety of disorders including hepatitis, liver congestion,

constipation, flatulence, dizziness, stomach gallstones, insomnia,

and

rheumatism, and a lack of appetite.

of South America, boldo

used

is

cramps and pain, Throughout the rest

intestinal

for gonorrhea, as well as for liver, gallbladder,

and digestive complaints. Boldo (as

In

is

the subject of a

an herbal drug)

Germany,

ders,

and

it

is

for

German

therapeutic

monograph

mild gastrointestinal spasms and dyspeptic disorders.

employed

for liver

and gallbladder complaints,

to stimulate gastric secretions (especially bile

tion in the gallbladder

antispasmodic.

It

is

that allows the use

and

liver).

It is

gastric disor-

production and secre-

also used for loss of appetite

used for similar purposes

in other countries

and as an

throughout

Europe. In

American herbal medicine systems, boldo

is

used

to stimulate the secre-

The Healing Power of

198

tion of saliva, bile flow

stones, liver problems,

PLANT CHEMICALS

Boldo has

and

liver activity;

it's

Rainforest Herbs

chiefly valued as a

remedy

for gall-

and gallbladder pain.

many biologically active chemicals. At least seventeen alkaloids

been documented thus active constituents.'-^

far,

several of

Much

which are believed

of the biological activity of

have

main the plant has been to

be boldo

s

attributed to a single alkaloid called boldine.

shown to protect the liver, to In various studies over the years boldine has to stimulate digestion, the production of bile in the liver,^^ as well as '

stimulate

stimulate the production of bile and increase the secretion of gastric juices, and In other laboratory tests, boldine has its secretion from the gallbladden^-^o properties as demonstrated diuretic, fever reducing, and anti-inflammatory In animal studies, boldine well as the ability to reduce excess uric acid.^^'^^ activities,^4,i5 as well as the exhibited anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic ability to protect against colon

damage and inflammation in induced

colitis

and

on boldine indicates that it has colon inflammation in animals.^^ Other research effect in the blood^^ and can nora strong cellular protective and antioxidant In 2002, boldine was malize sticky blood (inhibits platelet aggregation).^^'^^ system as well. Researchers reported to have an effect on the cardiovascular found that rate,

One

of boldo’s main

chemicals

is

responsible

for the plant’s ability to benefit the gallbladder,

liver,

and many

digestive functions.

it

force and heart increased coronary blood flow, depressed cardiac

and had a vasorelaxant

Most

effect.^o

uses for of these studies validate the plant's traditional

many

types of

liver and elimination problems, gallbladder problems, and understandable that With so many studies on this important active alkaloid, it is for boldine content. most boldo herbal drugs sold in Europe are standardized ascaridole, benzaldehyde, boldin, In addition to boldine, boldo contains coumarin, cuminaldehyde, boldoglucin, borny 1-acetate, 1,8-cineol, coclaurine,

digestive

disorders.

eugenol, farnesol, fen2-decanone, 6(a)-7 dehydroboldine, diethylphthalate, kaempferols, laurolitsine, lauchone, gamma terpinene, 2-heptaone, isoboldine, pachycarpine, P-cymene, P-cymol, rotetainine, norboldine, norisocorydine, sabinene, smoacutme, terpro-nuciferine, 2-octanone, reticuline, rhamnosides, and 2-undecanone. pinoline, thymol, trans verbenol, 2-tridecanone,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

in the 1950s and 1960s and Researchers verified indigenous uses of boldo leaves and bile-producshowed that leaf extracts had diuretic, digestion stimulation, 2^'^2 Although these properties are attributed ing properties in animal studies. with rats indicated that an alcolargely to the plant chemical boldine, one study than boldine alone.^ An ethanol hol extract of boldo leaves was more active shown to have a liver protective extract of the leaf administered to mice was recent human damage from chemical exposure.

effect,

preventing liver

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

199

study demonstrated that boldo relaxes smooth muscle tissue and prolongs intestinal transit (which again validates its traditional uses for digestive func-

The antioxidant property

tions).^^

and animal studies confirm U.S.

confirms most of boldo’s traditional uses.

boldo

that

leaf

has an anti-inflammatory

effect.’^

A

monograph

which Clinical research

of boldo leaves has also been documented,^'^

reports that boldo can increase urine output by 50 percent, validates the plant's traditional use as a diuretic.^^

Toxicity studies

high dosages, and

show

it

that boldo should not be

should be respected for

compound

of the plant contains a

tial oil

antiparasitic

and worm-expelling

externally. In addition, boldine has

called asaridole. Asaridole has it is

also a

documented

liver

products of boldo should only be used

been reported

dosages. In large quantities (higher than leaf),

regularly or in

very active qualities. The essen-

properties,^^ but

toxin. Therefore, distilled essential oil

natural

its

consumed

it

to

have toxic

high

effects in

occurs in traditional dosages of the

causes cramps, convulsions, and muscle paralysis, eventually

it

leading to respiratory paralysis.^^ effect in rats.^^ In a

It

2000 study with

also has demonstrated a uterine relaxant

an extract of dry boldo leaves and the

rats,

chemical boldine showed abortive actions and lowered the blood levels of bilirubin, cholesterol, glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate

aminotransferase (AST), and urea. These researchers reported, however, that the long-term administration of regular dosages of the leaf extract

and boldine

did not cause any toxic effect over a period of ninety days.^^

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

Centuries ago, boldo was a little-known plant growing in farmers' pastures in Chile. Today,

huge

market demand

fields of

boldo are cultivated around the world

for a specific herbal

gallbladder inflammation and for

remedy or herbal drug

many

types of

liver,

to

supply the

for gallstones

and

stomach, and digestive

conditions. However, persons with gallstones should seek the help

and advice

and trained healthcare practitioner before self-medicating with has such a pronounced effect on the gallbladder that it can cause the

of a qualified

boldo.

It

gallbladder to bile ducts

dump stones and

grit rapidly, possibly

causing a blockage in the

below the gallbladder and/or damaging the pancreas.

in small quantities

and with other plants

Many digestive disorders are due to a

to

It is

best used

avoid these problems.

lack of bile

results in sluggish digestion (causing bloating

and digestive

juices,

and an uncomfortable

which

feeling of

and belching, and poor the stomach and bowel). Boldo is one of the best nat-

fullness after a meal, intestinal gas, fermentation

absorption of nutrients in

ural remedies for these types of digestive problems because

production and secretion of bile and other digestive juices bladder, and general.

It

liver,

also

is

it

in the

stimulates the

stomach,

gall-

thereby maximizing and speeding digestive processes in

one of the

first

natural remedies natural health practitioners

The Healing Power of

200

to prevent liver use to assist in detoxifying the liver and

Rainforest Herbs

damage from

toxins

effect on the liver. However, conand drugs that are known to have a toxic dosages for boldo; it is a very sumers should not exceed the recommended with respect. powerful and active plant that should be treated capsules, tablets, and liquid There are several boldo products available in amount extracts providing a standardized extracts in the U.S. market, including Europe by extracts are sold as herbal drugs in

of boldine. These standardized

over-the-counter herbal suppleprescription only; however, they are sold as

ments

Traditional

Preparation

Contraindications

in the

United

States.

cup of a leaf infusion one or two a digestive aid or liver detoxifier, use V2 tincture twice daily. Or, if desired, take times daily with meals or 2-4 ml of a 4:1

As

capsules twice daily. For standardized 1-2 g of powdered leaf in tablets or extracts, follow the label instructions.

and caused fetal birth defects m Boldo has demonstrated abortive properties used during pregnancy or while animal studies and therefore should not be breastfeeding.

.

taking blood-thmnmg mec Chemicals in boldo may thin the blood. Those with disorders that have a tendency ications (such as Warfarin®) or those hemophilia) should not take towards thin blood (such as thrombocytopenia or healthcare practitioner. boldo unless under the supervision of a qualified for long-term, chronic use. Boldo has diuretic effects and is contraindicated

Do

Drug

Interactions

Boldo

not exceed the

may

-

recommended dosages.

medications such as Warpotentiate the effects of blood-thinning

farin®.

One

metabolic activation liver.30

decrease study suggests that boldo and/or boldine can the and/or metabolism of toxins, drugs, and chemicals in

in vivo clinical

As such, boldo may decrease

drugs that should be metabolized

the effect or reduce the half-life of certain

in the liver.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Asia

hangover, intestinal gas, liver disorders for digestive problems, dyspepsia,

Brazil

dizziness, dyspnea, constipation, debilitation, digestive disorders, for anorexia, bile insufficiency, cholecystitis, liver disorders, liver insomnia, intestinal gas, liver congestion, gallstones, gastritis, gonorrhea, hepatitis, urinary insufficiency, weakness, and to stimulate

stomach pain, support, rheumatism, stomach problems, digestion

Medicinal Plants of the

Chile

Amazon

201

bowel problems, high cholesterol, colds, cough, constipation,

for anorexia, bile insufficiency,

cystitis, diarrhea,

dyspepsia, earache, edema, fluid retention, gallbladder problems, gallstones, gastric sluggishness,

hypothyroidism, inflammation, intestinal gas, intestinal cramps, intestinal parasites, jaundice, liver

support,

insufficiency,

Europe

liver

disorders,

protection, obesity, rheumatism, sores, stomachache, stomach cramps, urinary

liver

worms, and

as an antioxidant, antiseptic, digestive stimulant,

and sedative

for bile insufficiency, digestion problems, dyspepsia, gallbladder pain, gallstones, gastrointestinal spasms,

gonorrhea, gout,

liver disorders,

spasms, urinary insufficiency, and as an appetite stimulant and digestive

stimulant

Latin

for anorexia, bile insufficiency,

America

earache, gallbladder problems, gallstones, gonorrhea, gout, hepatitis, intestinal gas, intestinal parasites,

bowel problems, colds, constipation,

cystitis,

digestion problems, dyspepsia,

jaundice, kidney stones, liver disorders, liver support, malaria, pain, parasites, rheumatism, spasms, pain, syphilis, urogenital inflammation, urethritis, urinary insufficiency,

worms, and

stomach

as an antiseptic, digestive

stimulant, and general tonic

Mexico

for bile disorders, digestive disorders, gallbladder problems, gallstones, liver disorders, liver support, pain,

rheumatism, and as a digestive stimulant

Turkey

for liver support, rheumatism, urinary insufficiency,

worms and used

as an antiseptic, digestive stimulant,

sedative, and tonic

United

for bile stimulation, cystitis, digestive problems, elimination problems, gallbladder disorders, gallstones,

States

gastrointestinal spasms, gout, hepatitis, inflammation, kidney disorders, liver disorders, pain, uric acid

elimination, urinary infections, urinary insufficiency, urinary antiseptic, and used as an antiseptic (urinary), digestive stimulant, sedative, and tonic

BRAZIL NUT HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions •

fights free radicals

•

is

nutritious

•

is

soothing

The Family; Lecythidaceae

Genus:

Bertholletia

Species: excelsia

Common

Names;

Brazil nut, castania,

castanheiro

do

para,

para-nut, creamnut,

castana de-para, castana de-Brazil

Parts Used: nut, seed

oil

Brazil nut tree

or more, and

it

•

is

Standard Dosage

none

enormous,

Nut, Nut

fret]uently attaining the height of 40 to 50

can reach ages of 500-800 years old. The tree

do para in Brazil and

is

oil

found throughout the

Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador. The

Amazon

is

m

called castanheiro

rainforest in Brazil, Peru,

fruit is a large,

or pod, about the size of a large grapefruit and weighing

round woody capsule

up

to 2.2 kg.

The

fruit

ends of thick branches, then ripen and fall from the tree from January to June, usually with a loud crashing sound as they fall 150 feet through the canopy like cannon balls. Inside each fruit pod, wedged in like orange seg-

pods grow

at the

ments, are twelve to twenty-five Brazil nuts, each within shell. fruit

Mature

Brazil nut trees can

pods annually.

its

own

individual

produce approximately 300 or more of these

The Healing Power of

Rainforest Herbs

202 (which Brazil nuts from the Amazon Today, the monetary value of exporting that of rubber. T e traders) is second only to Dutch with 1600s the in began irmetric tons of Brazil nuts annua y. 9 than more imports alone United States forest trees and wild harves wild from comes production tually all Brazil nut long as ten to thirty years e ore The trees grow very slowly, taking as ine.

and they require

producing nuts, ers.

pollinate the a specific species of bee to

unsuitable and unprofitable Both of these factors make the trees

tation cultivation.

good example

The Brazil nut tree is a zon where plants and animals

ow-

for plan-

r.u of the intricate ecosystem of the

Ama-

pollination of this tree so

Not only is the are inexplicably intertwined. insect species to specialized, requiring one particular

capable of chewing t roug but only one species of animal is The disburse the seeds for new tree growth. the extremely tough fruit pod to with extremely sharp front teetl% is pounds!) to (up 10 rat large rather agouti, a e ensuring the forest with Brazil nuts and solely responsible for reseeding

produce the

fruit,

rainforest, the next generation of trees. In the Amazon for survival. all dependent on one another

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

tree, bee,

and agouti are

meat or flesh that consists of 70 a three-sided nut with white the centuries, the indigenous tribes o For protein. percent and 17 fat percent staple as an important and significant rainforest have relied on Brazil nuts comnuts have even been used as a trade their diet-so important that the them an tribes eat the nuts raw or grate

The

Brazil nut

is

m

much

modity,

mix them thorny

like

money. Indigenous

into gruels. In the Brazilian

stilt

roots of Socrntea

palms

Amazon,

into a white

the nuts are grated with the

mush known

as

leite tie

castan-

This food is a valuable source of calories, ha and then stirred into manioc flour. peoples. the Amazon's rural and tribal fat, and protein for much of

With such

a

high

oil

burn like miniature content, fresh Brazil nuts will even

and used by indigenous and seedsoap, and livestock feed. The empty rural people for cooking oil, lamps, fires are used to carry around small smoky pods, often called "monkey's pots,"

candles

when

lit.

The

oil is

extracted from the nuts

latex from tapped flies, as cups to collect rubber black of attacks discourage to used The husks of these seedpods have also been trees, and as drinking cups. brew into tea to treat stomachaches, and the tree in Brazilian folk medicine to

bark

RIANT CHEMICALS

is

brewed

into tea to treat liver ailments.

Brazil nut oil contains

mainly palmitic,

and

linoleic

and alpha Imolenic

stearic acids and phytosterols. In addiand small amounts of myristic and provide the highest natural source of selenito protein and fat, Brazil nuts Allowance of the U.S. Recommended Daily

acids tion

oleic,

um. One

single Brazil nut exceeds

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

203

selenium. The proteins found in Brazil nuts are very high in sulfur-containing

One

single Brazil nut

exceeds the U.S.

Recommended

Daily

Allowance of selenium.

amino acids

like cysteine (8 percent)

and methionine

(18 percent)

and are also

extremely rich in glutamine, glutamic acid, and arginine.^"^ The presence of these amino acids (chiefly methionine) enhances the absorption of selenium

and other minerals

in the nut.

In addition to the chemicals discussed above, Brazil nuts contain antimony,

cerium, cesium, europium, fatty acids, lanthanum, lutetium, samarium, scandium, selenoprotein, tantalum, tungsten, and ytterbium.

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

Since the Brazil nut has long been a dy,

it

common

food, rather than an herbal reme-

hasn't been the subject of any clinical research.

tically"

employs the nuts

for their

Anyone using

it

"therapeu-

high content of natural selenium. Selenium

an essential trace mineral in the human body with antioxidant, anti-cancer, and cancer-preventative properties (especially, it seems, for prostate cancer). is

and

Brazil nuts

nut

oil is clear

wonderful

mainly used as a food

their oil are

yellowish

in the

United

with a pleasant, sweet smell and

oil

light oil for salad dressings: try

combining

gar for tasty vinaigrette. In addition, Brazil nut

oil is

it

States. Brazil

taste. It

makes

with raspberry vine-

often used in soaps,

sham-

poos, and hair conditioning/repair products in South America, and this use

beginning to catch on

in the

United States as well.

ditioner, bringing shine, silkiness, less hair

and

split

and softness

ends. Brazil nut

oil in

It is

Traditional

Preparation

Contraindications

A

day

is

a great

way

wonderful hair con-

and renewing dry, lifeskin creams helps lubricate and

helps prevents dryness, and leaves skin

Brazil nut a

a

soft,

to get the daily

its

high selenium con-

smooth, and hydrated.

recommended amount

Brazil nuts, like If

many

you are

other nuts, can cause allergic reactions in allergic to other nuts, like peanuts,

some

sensitive

you might be

gic to Brazil nuts as well.

Interactions

of nat-

ural selenium.

individuals.

Dnig

is

to hair

moisturize the skin, provides antioxidant benefits with tent,

a

None known.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

for liver problems, stomachache, and used as a food, emollient, soap, and insect repellant

Venezuela

used as a food and insect repellant

aller-

The Healing Power of

204

Rainforest

Herbs

BRAZILIAN PEPPERTREE HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

•

kills

Candida yeast

•

relieves depression

reduces inflammation

•

reduces spasms

•

kills

stimulates digestion

bacteria

•

kills

fungi

•

kills

cancer

twice

'T

daily

twice

Leaf infusion; 'T daily

dries secretions

viruses

Tincture; 2-3 ml twice daily

•

regulates heartbeat

lowers blood pressure

•

•

increases urination

mildly laxative

•

•

stimulates menstruation

stimulates uterus

•

•

reduces phlegm

heals

•

•

kills

Genus; Schinus

Bark

Bark decoction;

cells

•

Family; Anacardiaceae

Species; molle,

relieves pain

kills

•

Leaf,

•

•

•

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

wounds

insects

terebinthifolius, aroeira

Common

Names;

Brazilian peppertree,

Peruvian peppertree, California peppertree, aroeira, aroeira salsa, escobilla, Peruvian mastic tree, mastic-tree,

aguaribay,

American

pepper, anacahuita, Castilla, false

pepper,

gualeguay, Jesuit’s balsam,

molle del Peru,

pepper

mulli,

tree, pimentero, pimientillo, pirul

Parts Used;

fruit,

bark, leaf

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Brazilian peppertree

10 m

tall,

is

leaves. a shrubby tree with narrow, spiky

with a trunk 25 to 35

cm

in diameter.

It

grows 4

It

to

produces an abundance of

bear a great many small, flesh-colored, small flowers formed in panicles that South and CenIt is indigenous to berry-like fruits in December and January. the found in semitropical and tropical regions of

America and can also be and South America, three different United States and Africa. In both North Schinus terebinthifolius—are all intertrees— Sc/iimis molle, Schinus aroeira, and

tral

changeably called "peppertrees." All parts of the tree have high

oil

and

essential oil contents that

produce a

peppertree have such high oil aromatic scent. The leaves of the Brazilian when placed in hot water as the oil is content that leaf pieces jerk and twist syrups, vinegar, which have a peppery flavor, are used

spicy,

released.

m

The berries,

wines; and are dried and ground and beverages in Peru; are added to Chilean been used tropics. The dried berries have also the in substitute pepper a for up some countries. as an adulterant of black pepper in

Virtually resin

all

parts of this tropical tree, including

and oleoresin

leaves, bark, fruit, seeds,

have been used medicinally by indigenous peoThe plant has a very long history of use and

(or balsam)

ples 'throughout the tropics.

Tpears

its

in religious artifacts

and on

idols

among some

of the ancient Chilean

Amerindians.

.

Brazilian peppertree Throughout South and Central America,

is

reported to

tonic, antiviral,

and

The

ole-

digestive stimulant, be an astringent, antibacterial, diuretic, laxative and a diuretic, and the wound healer. In Peru, the sap is used as a mild entire plant

is

used externally

for fractures

and as a

topical antiseptic.

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

205

oresin

used externally as

is

toothaches, and

South Africa, a

it is

a

used

leaf tea is

to treat colds,

and antidepressant.

and

is

medicine today, Brazilian

countries.

It is

used

for

In Argentina, a decoction is

is

is

inhaled for

In the Brazilian

made with

Ama-

used as a stimuthe dried leaves

also used for respiratory

and

uri-

and disorders.

Brazilian peppertree

herbal

a leaf decoction

a bark-and-leaf tea is

taken for menstrual disorders and

tract infections

and

and irregular heartbeat.

used as a laxative, and

lant

nary In Brazilian

is

and

healer, to stop bleeding,

taken internally for rheumatism and as a purgative. In

colds, hypertension, depression,

zon, a bark tea

wound

for

is still

many

employed

in herbal

medicine today

in

many

conditions in the tropics, including menstrual

employed

disorders, bronchitis, gingivitis, gonorrhea, gout, eye infections, rheumatism,

for heart problems (hyper-

sores, swellings, tuberculosis, ulcers, urethritis, urogenital disorders, sexually

tension and irregular

transmitted diseases, warts, and wounds. In Brazilian herbal medicine today,

peppertree

is

heartbeat), infections of all

sorts,

menstrual

disorders with excessive bleeding, tumors, and

general inflammation.

PLANT CHEMICALS

the dried bark

and

and/or leaves are employed

irregular heartbeat), infections of

for heart

all sorts,

problems (hypertension

menstrual disorders with exces-

and general inflammation. A liquid extract or tincture prepared with the bark is used internally as a stimulant, tonic, and astringent, and externally for rheumatism, gout, and syphilis. sive bleeding, tumors,

Phytochemical analysis of Brazilian peppertree reveals that the plant contains tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroidal saponins, sterols, terpenes,

amount is

of essential oil.^”^

The

essential oil present in the leaves, bark,

a rich source of chemicals (over fifty constituents identified thus

ing biologically active triterpenes and sesquiterpenes). scientists

and

a large

and

far,

fruit

includ-

Some of these chemicals

have not seen before, and many of the plant's documented biological

The fruit can contain up to 5 percent essential oil, and the leaves can contain up to 2 percent essential oil.^'^ The list of chemicals found in the Brazilian peppertree is long: amyrin, activities are attributed to its essential oil.

behenic acid, bergamont, bicyclogermacrene, bourbonene, cadinene, cadinol, calacorene,

calamenediol,

calamenene,

camphene, car-3-ene, carvacrol,

caryophyllene, cerotic acid, copaene, croweacin, cubebene, cyanidins, cymene,

elemene, elemol, elemonic acid, eudesmol,

fisetin, gallic acid,

geraniol butyrate,

germacrene, germacrone, guaiene, gurjunene, heptacosanoic acid, humulene, laccase, lanosta, limonene, linalool, linoleic acid, malvalic acid, masticadienoic

acid, masticadienonalic acid, masticadienonic acid,

muurolene, muurolol,

myrcene, nerol hexanoate, octacosanoic acid, oleic acid, paeonidin, palmitic acid, pentacosanoic acid, phellandrene, phellandrene, phenol, pinene, piperine, piperitol, protocatechuic acid, quercetin, quercitrin, raffinose, sabinene, sitosterol,

spathulene, terpinene, terpineol, terpinolene, and tricosanoic acid.

The Healing Power of

206

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Rainforest

Herbs

well as leaf and bark extracts) has In laboratory tests, the essential oil (as peppertree has disdemonstrated potent antimicrobial properties. Brazilian

played good-to-very strong as well as Candida.

One

in vitro

antifungal actions against

numerous

fungi,

action research group indicated that the antifungal

was more effective than the antifungal drug Multifungin in vitro antibacterial The essential oil and leaves have clinically demonstrated (which probably explains why it is activity against numerous bacterial strains in its native countries).' an herbal remedy for so many infectious conditions essential oil preparation of Brazilian In 1996, a U.S. patent was awarded for an .

of the essential oil

against Pseudomonas and peppertree as a topical bactericidal medicine used an ear, nose, and/or throat Staphi/lococcus for humans and animals, and as awarded in 1997 for a simipreparation against bacteria.^^ Another patent was ^^uch earwound cleanser.^^ lar preparation used as a topical antibacterial peppertree demonstrated antiviral lier in vitro tests, a leaf extract of Brazilian to these documented antiactions against several plant viruses.^^ In addition anti-cancer plant screening microbial properties, Brazilian peppertree passed an antitumorous actions.^'^ In 2002, researchers

by demonstrating Argentina documented that it was

program in

in 1976

toxic in vitro against a

human liver cancer

cell line.^^

effective against

numerous

animal studies on the years, several research groups have conducted some of its many tradiBrazilian peppertree that have further substantiated

bacteria, fungi,

and yeast.

tional uses in herbal medicine.

Brazilian

peppertree

is

Over

lower blood pressure ity in

in

guinea pigs and

A fruit extract and

dogs and

rats,'*’-'^

rabbits.'^''*

a leaf extract

were shown

to

as well as to stimulate uterine activ-

Leaf extracts have clinically demonstrated

properties in rats and pain-relieving activity in mice^^ and antispasmodic In 1974, the antiguinea pigs (including uterine antispasmodic actions).’*'--*’ the herb was effect of Brazilian pepperfree was documented;

inflammatory

with chronic cervicitis and vaginitis effectively.^’ In anti-inflammatory properties 1995 and 1996, other researchers documented the

used

to treat 100 patients

of this plant once again.22-2‘i

CURRENT A PRACTICAL USES

monograph published

in 1976

cated no toxicity in animals and

on Brazilian peppertree's

humans

essential oil indi-

ingesting or applying the essential

both North Today, herbalists and natural health practitioners in for colds, flu, and other and South America use Brazilian peppertree mostly and for irregular respiratory infections; as a remedy for hypertension

oil topically.'^

upper

and Candida; and as a female balancing aid for and excessive numerous menstrual disorders, including menstrual cramps

heartbeat; for fungal infections

bleeding.

Medicinal Plants of the

Traditional

Preparation

Amazon

207

The leaves

are best prepared as an infusion,

decoction or an alcohol tincture. Generally, daily

is

used

2-3 ml of a

for colds, flu, sore throats

V2 cup

is

best prepared as a

of a bark decoction twice

and other upper respiratory

infections;

taken two or three times daily can be substituted,

4:1 tincture

desired. This traditional

heartbeat.

and the bark

remedy

A leaf decoction

is

also used as a heart tonic

twice daily or as needed

is

and

if

for irregular

generally used for

men-

strual disorders.

Contraindications

This plant

was shown

to stimulate the uterus in

animal studies and therefore

should not be used in pregnancy.

Drug

Interactions

None mal

reported. However, this plant has exhibited hypotensive actions in ani-

studies; in light of such,

it is

conceivable that the use of this plant

may

potentiate high blood pressure medications.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Argentina

for diarrhea, menstrual disorders, respiratory tract infections, inflammation, urinary tract infections,

Brazil

for bronchitis, constipation, cough, cystitis, depression, diarrhea, eye diseases, fever,

flu,

wounds

gonorrhea, heart

problems, hemorrhage, inflammation, menstrual disorders, respiratory tract infections, rheumatism, spasms,

tumors,

urethritis, urinary tract disorders,

and as an astringent, stimulant, and tonic

Colombia

for diarrhea, lung diseases,

Mexico

for asthma, bronchitis, cataract, colic, conjunctivitis, constipation, cough, digestive disorders,

fungus, gonorrhea,

gum

rheumatism

diseases,

mouth

flu,

foot

sores, rheumatism, sexually transmitted diseases, sores (skin),

stomachache, toothache, tuberculosis, tumors, ulcers, urogenital diseases, warts, wounds, and as an astringent

Paraguay

for gonorrhea, menstrual disorders, sores, urethritis, urinary insufficiency,

Peru

for constipation, fevers, fractures, rheumatism, toothache, tumors, urinary insufficiency, warts, wounds, and

wounds

as an antiseptic

South Africa

for arrhythmia, colds, cough, depression, gout, hypertension, inflammation, pain,

Turkey

for constipation, coughs, excessive mucus, gonorrhea, urinary insufficiency, and as a digestive stimulant and

rheumatism

tonic

Uruguay

for menstrual disorders, rheumatism,

Elsewhere

for bronchitis, constipation, coughs, excessive mucus,

wounds, and

as an antiseptic

edema, eye diseases,

gingivitis,

gout, hypertension,

menstrual disorders, rheumatism, sexually transmitted diseases, sores, swelling, urinary urogenital inflammation, viruses, and to stimulate digestion

insufficiency,

The Healing Power of

208

Rainforest Herbs

CAMU-CAMU HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

’

nutritious

•

IS

•

fights free radicals

Fruit

dries secretions

three times daily Tablets/Capsules:

twice

daily

Family;

Myrtaceae

Genus: Myrciaria

Common

Names;

camu-camu, rumberry Part Used:

fruit

based on

content

Amazon Camu-camu is a low-growing shrub found throughout the of about 2-3 mainly in swampy or flooded areas. It grows to a height large, feathery leaves.

Species; dubia

C

size of lemons,

It

which contain a

significant

rainforest,

m and has

light orange-colored fruits

produces round,

amount

-2 g

or follow the

label directions

vitamin

I

about the

of vitamin C. Its high vitamin

natural products mar-

C content has created a demand for camu-camu fruit in the cultivation methods for this imporket. Some groups are now beginning to study the still harvested wild throughout tant new rainforest resource, which is a Shaman s Amazon region. Ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin notes in his book. Tales of worth twice the amount to be with cattle, and he believes gained from cutting down the forest and replacing it promise for local economies. that camu-camu cultivation holds real economic the fruits mature fruit is wild-harvested in canoes because

Apprentice, that

Usually, at

''a

forest stand of

camu-camu

is

camu-camu

high water or during flooding seasons in the

Amazon

rainforest.

TRIBAL Camu-camu has never been documented as a traditional herbal remedy for any

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

condition in the

Amazon region.

indigenous people, due to

become popular

its

In fact,

it

was not widely eaten

sour, acidic taste. In recent years,

in Iquitos, Peru,

where

it is

made

into drinks

as a fruit

by the

camu-camu has and

ice

creams.

PLANT Camu-camu fruit has the highest recorded amount of natural vitamin C known aceroCHEMICALS on the planet. Oranges provide 500^,000 ppm vitamin C, or ascorbic acid;

Camu-camu provides up to has tested in the range of 16,000-172,000 ppm. per 100 g of fruit. In comparison to 500,000 ppm, or about 2 g of vitamin C vitamin C, ten times more iron, oranges, camu-camu provides thirty times more riboflavin, and 50 percent more phos three times more niacin, twice as much la

^

phorus.i

per kg of

fruit.2 It

mg

711 also a significant source of potassium, providing amino acids that also has a full complement of minerals and

Camu-camu

is

Alpha-pinene and d-hmonene (comcan aid in the absorption of vitamin C. compounds in this fruit. pounds known as terpenes) predominate as the volatile

Medicinal Plants of the

Camu-camu thirty

times

C

Amazon

provides

more

vitamin

than oranges.

209

As with any vitamin consumption

is

C-rich

fruit,

crucial; the fruit

month (even

tent in less than a

has a dramatic edge over

its

if

however, the time between harvesting and

may

lose

frozen)."^

up

to a quarter of its

Even with

this loss,

vitamin

C

con-

camu-camu

next challenger, acerola, for vitamin

C

still

content.

mentioned above, camu-camu contains betacarotene, calcium, leucine, protein, serine, thiamin, and valine. In addition to the chemicals

BIOLOGICAL

There has been no research conducted or published on any medicinal or ther-

ACTIVITIES

apeutic properties of camu-camu. However, there are a few herbal supplement

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

companies pills flu,

in the

United States marketing camu-camu extracts

and alluding

to claims of its benefits

—from curing

in

powders and

viral infections, colds,

autoimmune disorders to even weight loss. The fact is there any research to back up these claims. There is some research suggest-

cold sores, and

just isn't

ing high dosages of vitamin tions, yet

C

and condiAnd, remember, this

offer a benefit for various illnesses

even some of those studies are controversial.

on vitamin C, not on camu-camu specifically. Make no mistake camu-camu is a great source of natural vitamin C. In addition, it comes with many other naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and research

is

—

amino acids that may well help with the absorption and efficient uptake of vitamin C. This is thought to be superior to just taking an ascorbic acid tablet alone. Don't believe some of the more far-reaching and far-fetched marketing claims that are in the marketplace today, however. The only studied and verified health benefit today regarding camu-camu is based upon its vitamin C content and

—

not other "mysterious" chemicals that surround

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

In the

upon

North American nutritional market, suggested daily servings are based

C content in the product sold, which can vary. Adjust the servdosage based upon the amount of vitamin C the product contains.

the vitamin

ing size or

Traditional

it.

None documented.

Preparation

Contraindications

None

reported. Side effects for high or excessive dosages of vitamin

gastrointestinal disturbances

Drug

Interactions

None

and diarrhea.

reported.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

United States

Nutritive

C

include

The Healing Power of

210

Rainforest Herbs

CARQUEJA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS •

induces abortions

•

kills

aids digestion

•

increases urination

reduces acid

•

reduces fever

•

treats ulcers

•

promotes sweating

•

relieves pain

•

expels

•

mildly laxative

•

reduces inflammation

•

lowers blood sugar

•

cleanses blood

•

tones gastric tract

•

protects

•

detoxifies liver

•

•

Family; Asteraceae

Genus: Baccharis Species: genistelloides

Common

Names:

carqueja, bacanta,

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions liver

Aerial parts Infusion; ^2

viruses

three times daily Tincture; 2—4 ml

two or

three times daily Capsules/Tablets: 2 g twice daily

worms

bacahda. cacaia-amarga, cacalia amara, cacalia-

amarga, cacalia-amargosa, cacliadoce. carqueja

amara, carqueja-

amargosa, carqueja-domato,

carquejilla,

carquejinha, chinchimani. chirca melosa. condamina. cuchi-cuchi, quimsa-

kuchu, quina-de-

condamiana. quinsucucho. tiririca-de-balaio, tres-espigas, vassoura

Parts Used: entire plant, aerial parts

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Carqueja

is

a perennial green herb that

grows

to a height of

1-2

m and produces

green, flat, winged yellowish-white flowers at the top of the plant. The bright the "wings" take the place of stalks have a fleshy, succulent consistency and genus is composed of more than 400 species native to trop-

The Baccharis and subtropical America.

leaves. ical

Carcjueja

is

known by

Brazil, including Baccharis genistelloides, B. triptera,

several botanical

and

B. trimera;

names

however,

in all

in same plant. The herb is found throughout the Amazon rainforest of Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, Brazil, and Colombia, as well as in tropical parts include Baccharis and Uruguay. Other common species called carqueja in Brazil (but smaller in height and trinervis and B. gaiidichaiidiana which look similar

refer to the

for B. genistelloides. with smaller wings) and are sometimes used as substitutes from carqueja) is Another well-known species in the family (but very different

a small shrub, B. cordifolia,

which

is

toxic to grazing animals.

centuries to cure Indigenous peoples of the rainforest have used carqueja for in common ailments. Its uses in herbal medicine were first recorded in Brazil carqueja being used for Pio Correa, who wrote about an infusion of

1931 by

men. Correa described carqueja as hav fever reducer, and digestive aid, ing the therapeutic properties of a tonic, bitter, and diarrhea. Caruses for dyspepsia, gastroenteritis, liver diseases,

sterility in

women and

impotency

in

with cited

to treat liver diseases, to queja has long been used in Brazilian medicine help purge obstructions of strengthen stomach and intestinal function, and to published in Brazil on herbal liver and gallbladder. Almost every book

the

Medicinal Plants of the Annazon

Almost every book published

in Brazil

on

herbal medicine includes carqueja, since sho'A'n to

it

has

be so effective

for liver and digestive disorders.

21

medicine includes carqueja, since

it

has

digestive disorders, as well as being a

Other popular uses for carqueja

shown

to

be so effective for

liver

I

and

good blood cleanser and fever reducer. medicine today are

in Brazilian herbal

to treat

malaria, diabetes, stomach ulcers, sore throat and tonsillitis, angina, anemia, diarrhea, indigestion, urinary inflammation, kidney disorders, intestinal leprosy,

queja

is

worms,

and poor blood circulation. In Peruvian herbal medicine today, carused for liver ailments, gallstones, diabetes, allergies, gout, intestinal

gas and bloating, and sexually transmitted diseases.

PLANT CHEMICALS

Carqueja milk

is

thistle,

a rich source of flavonoids. Certain flavonoids, such as silymarin in

have shown liver-protective properties and are used

conditions in herbal medicine systems. Carqueja ican version of milk thistle.

It

contains

up

quercetin, luteolin, nepetin, apigenin,

for

many liver

rather like the South

is

Amer-

to 20 percent flavonoids, including

and hispidulin. The flavonoids are

considered carqueja's main active constituents. Several novel plant chemicals called clerodane diterpenoids entists

showed

have been identified

that these chemicals

had

in carqueja and, in 1994, sci-

maximum effects against worms.

^

This

could possibly explain carqueja's long history of use as an agent to expel intestinal

worms.

Carqueja contains

many

chemicals: 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, alpha-phellan-

drene, alpha-terpinene, alpha-ylangene, beta-caryophyllene, beta-phellandrene,

beta-pinene, calacorene, camphene, carquejol, cirsimaritin, clerodane diterpenoids, elemol, eriodictyol, essential trin,

oils,

eudesmol, eugenol, eupatorin, eupa-

farnesene, farnesol, flavonoids, genkwanin, germacrene D, glycosides,

hispidium, hispidulin, ledol, limonene, linalool, luteolin, muurolene, myrcene, neptin, nerolidol, palustrol, pentadecanol, quercetin, resins, sabinene, saponins,

spatholenol, spathulenol, squalene, terpinolene, viridiflorene, and viridiflorol.

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

Carqueja's liver protective properties were confirmed in a clinical study a

crude flavonoid fraction of carqueja, as well as a crude leaf/ stem

dose-dependently increased the survival rate tered lethal dosages of phalloidin

—

to 100 percent in

a liver toxin (as

compared

to

when

extract,

mice adminisonly a 24 per-

cent survival rate in the control group). ^ While these scientists indicated that the single flavonoid hispidulin evidenced the highest liver-protective effect of

the flavonoids tested the

whole flavonoid

tive effect

(it

increased survival to 80 percent), the crude extract and

fraction provided a stronger liver detoxifying

and protec-

than the single flavonoid. This led to the conclusion that other con-

stituents in the crude extract, besides the flavonoids,

had

liver-protective effects

and/or there were interactions between the flavonoids and other plant chemicals that potentiated the flavonoids' effects.

The Healing Power of

212

Animal research confirms carqueja’s antacid, antiulcer,

and

liver

protective benefits.

Rainforest Herbs

and validated by Other traditional uses of carqueja have been studied properties were documented research. Its antacid, anti-ulcer, and hypotensive 1992.3-4 its anti-ulcer and pain-relieving propin two Brazilian animal studies in that showed that carqueja reduced erties were reported in a 1991 clinical study rats with H. pylori ulcers. That gastric secretions and had an analgesic effect in disorders by reducstudy concluded that carqueja ''may relieve gastrointestinal A later study, m 2000, ing acid secretion and gastrointestinal hyperactivity."^ carqueja adminisconfirmed its antiulcerogenic effect when a water extract of ulcers.^ Other researchers tered to rats protected them from alcohol-induced pain-relieving effects.^ This same research group in

documented

carqueja's

percent to 90 perSpain also reported a strong anti-inflammatory effect— a 70 the carqueja extract prior to cent inhibition— when mice were treated with inflammation. ^ being treated with various chemicals that induced natural aid for diaCarqueja has also long been used in South America as a sugar-lowering effect in mice, rats, betes, and several studies confirm its blood

and humans

(in

both normal and diabetic subjects).^^^

Finally, carqueja's traditional

and stomach viruses has also the more recent research has focused on its

use for colds,

flu,

been verified by research. Some of antiviral properties. In a clinical study published reported that a water extract of carqueja

showed

in 1999, researchers

in vitro antiviral

m Spam

actions against

Researchers Herpes simplex I and Vesicular stomatitis viruses at low dosages.^^ extract of carqueja provided in Texas had already reported in 1996 that a water subsequent research, an in vitro inhibition of HIV virus replication in T-cells.^^ In found in the water they have attributed this anti-HIV effect to a single chemical and reported that this plant 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid extract of carqueja

—

chemical

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

is

a potent inhibitor of

HIV

at

dosages as low as only

1

meg /ml.

Brazil one of the more widely known and used medicinal plants in natural herbal and other parts of South America. It is as popular in Brazil as a States and Europe. Many liver and digestive aid as milk thistle is in the United and it appears in the offiof its traditional uses have been verified by research, American countries as a specific liver and cial pharmacopoeias of several South Toxicity studies with digestive aid. Carqueja is considered safe and nontoxic. leaf/ stem extracts were given at up rats indicated no toxic effects when various

Carqueja

is

body weight.^ States are just learnHerbalists and natural health practitioners in the United document that it helps strengthing of the many effective uses of carqueja. They functions; fortifies, cleanses en digestive, ileocecal valve, stomach, and liver worms, is helpful for and detoxifies the blood and the liver; expels intestinal and removes obstrucpoor digestion, liver disorders, anemia, or loss of blood;

to 2

g/kg

in

tions in the gallbladder

and

liver.

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

Traditional

Preparation

213

Traditionally, 2 g in capsules or tablets or 2-4

with each meal as a digestive aid or sion

of a standard tincture are taken

remedy. Alternatively, a standard infu-

prepared with 5 g (about a teaspoon) of dried herb

is

and infused

Contraindications

liver

ml

for ten minutes. This traditional

remedy

is

to

4-6 ounces water

usually taken two or

three times daily with meals as a digestive aid. For topical use (pain

and inflam-

mation), 60 g of herb (about 2 ounces) to the affected area.

and applied

is

decocted in

Carqueja should not be used during pregnancy, as stimulant and abortive effects in

1 liter

it

of water

has demonstrated uterine

rats.^^

The use of this plant is contraindicated in persons with low blood pressure due to its documented hypotensive effects. Persons with any heart condition or taking heart medications should check with their physician prior to using this plant.

Carqueja has been documented to lower blood glucose levels in

animal studies. As such,

it is

human and

contraindicated in persons with hypoglycemia, and

people with diabetes should check with their doctor prior to using

and use with caution while monitoring

Drug

Interactions

Carqueja

may

their

this plant,

blood sugar levels accordingly.

potentiate the effects of antihypertensive drugs

and

insulin

and

antidiabetic drugs.

Carqueja

may

speed the clearance of some drugs metabolized

in the liver,

thereby reducing the pharmacological effect and/or side effects of drugs that are metabolized in the liver.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Bolivia

for abortions, digestion, gastrointestinal problems, ulcers

Brazil

for abortions, acid stomach, anemia, angina, anorexia, bile disorders, blood purification, bronchitis,

Chagas disease,

circulation, colds, constipation, detoxification, diabetes, diarrhea, digestion disorders,

dyspepsia, edema, fevers,

flu,

gallstones, gallbladder disorders, gastritis, gastroenteritis, gout, heartburn,

high cholesterol, hypertension, ileocecal disorders, impotence, indigestion, intestinal disorders, intestinal parasites, kidney stones, leprosy, liver detoxification, liver disorders, liver protection, malaria, nausea,

obesity, rheumatism, sexually transmitted diseases, sore throat, spleen disorders, sterility, tonsillitis,

stomach problems,

ulcers (gastric), ulcers (skin), urinary insufficiency, urinary tract disorders,

promoting menstruation,

Colombia

for stopping bleeding,

Paraguay

for diabetes, high cholesterol, infertility

Peru

for bloating,

bronchopulmonary disorders,

ulcers,

worms

wounds

diabetes, digestive disorders, dislocations,

liver diseases, malaria, gastritis, gastrointestinal disorders, gout, intestinal gas,

flu,

gallstones,

rheumatic pain, promoting

menstruation, sexually transmitted diseases, stomachache, urinary disorders, uterine problems

The Healing Power of

214

Herbs

Rainforest

CASHEW HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS

Family: Anacardiaceae

Genus: Anacardium Species: occidentale

Common cajueiro.

Names:

acajou, acaju. acajaiba. alcayoiba. anacarde.

anacardier. anacardo. cacajuil. cajou. gajus.

jocote maranon.

maranon. merey. noix

pomme

d’acajou.

pomme.

cajou.

jambu. jambu

golok. jambu mete, jambu monyet. jambu terong

reduces inflammation

Leaf,

stops diarrhea

•

suppresses coughs

Decoction:

germs

•

increases libido

dries secretions

•

aids digestion

increases urination

•

reduces fever

•

lowers blood sugar

•

reduces blood pressure

•

lowers body temperature

kills

•

•

kills

•

•

bacteria

Cashew

fruit,

is

a

multipurpose

sandy

times daily

Amazon

the

soils in the central plains of Brazil,

Amazon

that

grows up

to 15

m high.

It

and are cultivated

in

many

parts of

rainforest.

The cashew

tree

produces

many resources and

products.

The bark and leaves

and the cashew nut has international appeal medici and market value as a food. Even the shell oil around the nut is used industries for its nally and has industrial applications in the plastics and resin phenol content. Then, there is the pseudo-fruit— a swollen peduncle that grows

of the tree are used medicinally,

cashew nut. The pseudo-fruit, a large pulpy and juicy part, has a fine sweet flavor and is commonly referred to as the "cashew fruit" or the "cashew apple." Fresh or frozen cashew fruit concentrate

behind the

is

as

real fruit that yields the

common

in the

a juice product in States.

The cashew nut

own

South American food stores as orange juice

is

very perishable, however; therefore, no fresh cashew exported into the United States or Europe from South America.

United

leaves.

bark, nut/seed

tree of the

2-3

'/2

they frequently has a thick and tortuous trunk with branches so winding that wild on the drier, reach the ground. Cashew trees are often found growing

fruit is Parts Used:

Bark

•

•

cashew, cashu,

casho, acajuiba, caju,

Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions

is

It is

defined botanically as the

kidney-shaped hard

nut kernel inside a thick, caustic,

remove

is

end of

covered with an inner

and

the cardol,

shell at the

fruit. It

grows externally

this pseudo-fruit, or

in its

peduncle. The

and between the two shells is Cashew nuts must be cleaned to

shell,

toxic oil called cardol.

and then roasted or boiled

to

remove the toxins before they

can be eaten.

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Native

to the northeast coast of Brazil,

the arrival of Europeans at the

end

cashew was domesticated long before

was "discovered" 1578. It was taken from

of the fifteenth century.

It

by European traders and explorers and first recorded in naturalized. Brazil to India and East Africa, where it soon became

In sixteenth-

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

215

century Brazil, cashew fever,

Cashew tea

fruit juice

made from

bark are very

and a

the tree

common

diarrhea remedies

throughout the

Amazon

today, used by herbal healers and local

people

alike.

fruits

and

their juice

were taken by Europeans

to treat

sweeten breath, and "conserve the stomach."

The cashew

tree

and

its

nuts and

fruit

indigenous tribes of the rainforest, and

have been used

it is

gardens. The Tikuna tribe in northwest

a

common

for centuries

by the

cultivated plant in their

Amazonia considers

the fruit juice

medicinal against influenza, and they brew a tea of leaves and bark to treat diar-

The Wayapi tribe in Guyana uses a bark tea as a diarrhea remedy and colic remedy for infants. Tribes in Suriname use the toxic seed oil as an external worm medicine to kill botfly larvae under the skin. In Brazil, a bark tea is used as a douche for vaginal discharge and as an astringent to stop bleeding after a tooth extraction. A wine made from the fruit is used for dysentery in other parts of the Amazon rainforest. The fruit juice and a bark tea are very common diarrhea remedies throughout the Amazon today, used by curanderos

rhea.

and

local

people

alike.

In Peruvian herbal

as a

common

medicine today, cashew

diarrhea remedy; a bark tea

leaf tea (called casho) is

employed

used as an antiseptic vaginal

is

douche; and the seeds are used for skin infections. In Brazilian herbal medicine, the fruit

is

leaf tea is

taken for syphilis and as a diuretic, stimulant, and aphrodisiac.

prepared as a mouthwash and gargle for mouth ulcers,

throat problems

and

ation of the bark

is

disorders,

is

used

used

washing wounds.

for

to treat diabetes,

An

and

infusion and/or macer-

weakness, muscular

and asthma. The leaves and/or the bark

tonsillitis,

A

is

debility,

urinary

also used in Brazil for

eczema, psoriasis, scrofula, dyspepsia, genital problems, and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as for impotence, bronchitis, cough, intestinal colic, leishmaniasis, and syphilis-related skin disorders. North ers use

cashew

diarrhea,

PLANT CHEMICALS

als,

and other

being delicious, cashew essential nutrients. a

It

fruit is a rich

source of vitamins, miner-

C

than

compounds

pres-

has up to five times more vitamin

high amount of mineral

salts. Volatile

ent in the fruit include esters, terpenes, and carboxylic acids.^

cashew are

documented

and

a general tonic.

oranges and contains

leaves of

practition-

for diabetes, coughs, bronchitis, tonsillitis, intestinal colic,

and as

In addition to

American

a rich source of tannins, a

biological activity.

These tannins,

The bark and

group of plant chemicals with

in a

1985 rat study, demonstrat-

ed anti-inflammatory and astringent effects,^ which may be why cashew is effective in treating diarrhea. Anacardic acids are found in cashew, with their highest concentration in the nutshells. Several clinical studies have shown that these chemicals curb the darkening effect of aging by inhibiting tyrosinase activity,

and

that they are toxic to certain cancer

The main chemicals found

in

cashew are

cells.^"^"^

alanine, alpha-catechin, alpha-

linolenic acid, anacardic acids, anacardol, antimony, arabinose, caprylic acid.

The Healing Power of

216

Rainforest

Herbs

acid, gingkol, glucardanol, cardol, europium, folacin, gadoleic acid, gallic hydroxybenzoic acid, curonic acid, glutamic acid, hafnium, hexanal, histidine,

leucocyanidin, leuisoleucine, kaempferols, L-epicatechin, lauric acid, leucine, myristic acid, copelargonidine, limonene, linoleic acid, methylglucuronic acid,

phenylalanaringenin, oleic acid, oxalic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, acid, samarium, scannine, phytosterols, proline, quercetin-glycoside, salicylic tryptophan. dium, serine, squalene, stearic acid, tannin, and trans-hex-2-enal

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

Cashew

has

demonstrated broad spectrum

antibacterial

actions

in

many

Cashew's antimicrobial properties were study.^ In 1999, another study

documented

in a 1982 in vitro

indicating

had good

and Pseudomonas.^

A

it

in vitro

2001 study reported

against thirteen of that a bark extract exhibited in vitro antimicrobial activity reported that cashew fifteen microorganisms tested.^® In 1999, researchers is antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which fruit

exhibited

now

considered to cause acute gastritis and stomach ulcers.

against leishmanial ulcers also Finally,

two studies (one

in

was documented

mice and the other

in

two

Its

effectiveness

clinical studies.

in rats) in 1989

and 1998 docu-

diabetes.^'^'^^ the protective quality of a leaf extract against lab-induced Although the extract did not act as hypoglycemic as some others, it did stabi-

ment lize

PRACTICAL USES

was published

antibacterial activity against E. coli

laboratory tests.

CURRENT

first

blood glucose levels near pretest

levels.

wide range of applicaand juices, and fruit tions. The fruit is used to make highly nutritive snacks its high amount extracts are now being used in body-care products. Because of

The

different products

produced from

this tree offer a

cashew fruit is used as a catalyst in the treatment of premature aging of the skin and to re-mineralize the skin. It is also an lotions, and effective scalp conditioner and tonic and is often used in shampoos,

of vitamin

C and

mineral

salts,

and mucilage. Cashew an effective diarleaf or bark tea is still widely used throughout the tropics as Unfortunately, rhea and colic remedy, considered gentle enough for children.

scalp creams for the conditioning activity of

there are not

course,

many cashew

cashew

The natural

Preparation

dard decoction of

Interactions

products available in the U.S. market, besides of

remedy for diarrhea and dysentery is V2 cup leaves and twigs, taken two or three times daily.

rainforest

of a stan-

fruit, fruit oil) Skin contact with various parts of the fresh plant (leaves, bark, may cause dermatitis and produce an allergic response. Cashew nuts and fruits

have also been documented

Drug

proteins

nuts.

Traditional

Contraindications

its

None

reported.

to

cause food allergy reactions.

Medicinal Plants of the

217

Amazon

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Africa

for malaria

Brazil

for asthma, bronchitis, corns, cough, diabetes, dyspepsia, eczema, fever, genital disorders, impotence, intestinal colic, leishmaniasis, libido stimulation,

transmitted diseases, insufficiency, warts,

syphilis,

throat (sore),

wounds, and

as a gargle

muscular

tonsillitis,

debility, pain, psoriasis, scrofula, sexually

ulcers (mouth), urinary disorders, urinary

and mouthwash

Haiti

for cavities, diabetes, stomatitis, toothache, warts

Malaysia

for constipation, dermatosis, diarrhea,

Mexico

for diabetes, diarrhea, freckles, leprosy, skin, swelling, syphilis, ulcer, warts

Panama

for asthma, colds, congestion, diabetes, diarrhea, hypertension, inflammation

Peru

for diarrhea,

Trinidad

for asthma, cough, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia,

Turkey

for diarrhea, fever, poisoning, warts

Venezuela

for dysentery, leprosy, sore throat, and as a gargle

Elsewhere

for asthma, colds, colic, congestion, corns, cough, debility, diabetes, diarrhea, dysentery, scurvy, skin

flu,

flu,

infection, skin infections,

problems, tumor, urinary

insufficiency,

nausea, thrush

and as an antiseptic and douche

stomachache

warts

CAT'S

CLAW

HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

•

relieves pain

reduces inflammation

•

kills

•

protects

•

detoxifies

•

fights free radicals

•

cleanses blood

•

cleanses bowel

•

increases urination

•

kills

cancer

•

reduces blood pressure

•

leukemia

•

kills

reduces cholesterol

•

tones and balances

•

decreases depression

•

stinnulates

•

immune system

cells

cells

viruses

Standard Dosage Inner Vine Bark

Decoction:

I

cup twice

daily

Capsules/Tablets: 1-2 g or three times daily Fluid Extracts:

2-4 ml twice

daily cells

Tinctures: 2-4 ml twice daily

Standardized Extracts: follow the label instructions

two

The Healing Power of

8

Family: Rubiaceae

Species: tomentosa, guianensis

Common cat’s claw,

Names:

una de gato,

paraguayo, garabato,

garbato casha, samento, toro,

tambor huasca, una

huasca, una de gavilan,

hawk’s claw, saventaro Parts Used: bark, root, leaves

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

woody vine that derives its name from hookTwo closethat grow along the vine and resemble the claws of a cat.

Cat's claw (U. tomeutosn) like thorns

Genus: Uncaria

Rainforest Herbs

is

a large,

used almost interchangeably in the rainforests: 30 m high into the U. tonioitosa and U. guianensis. Both species can reach over guianensis canopy. U. tomentosa has small, yellowish-white flowers, whereas U. claw is has reddish-orange flowers and thorns that are more curved. Cat s Cenindigenous to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical areas of South and Trinidad, Venezuela, tral America, including Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana,

ly related species of Uncaria are

Suriname, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama. There are other species of plants with a common name of plants, not belonging to the Uncaria genus, or eral of the

Mexican una de gato

varieties

have

claw

una

(or

entirely different

Mexico and Latin America; however, they are

de gato) in

cat's

even the Rubiaceae family. Sevtoxic properties.

of the Both South American Uncaria species are used by the indigenous peoples Amazon rainforest in very similar ways and have long histories of use. Cat's claw (U. tomentosa) has been used medicinally by the Aguaruna, Ashaninka, The Cashibo, Conibo, and Shipibo tribes of Peru for at least 2,000 years. Ashaninka Indian tribe in central Peru has the longest recorded history of use

They are also the largest commercial source of cat's claw from Peru of the uritoday. The Ashaninka use cat's claw to treat asthma, inflammations nary tract, arthritis, rheumatism, and bone pain; to recover from chilcibirth; as and gastric a kidney cleanser; to cure deep wounds; to control inflammation

of the plant.

Cat’s claw has been

used medicinally by the Aguaruna, Ashaninka, Cashibo, Conibo, and Shipibo Indian tribes of Peru for at least

2,000 years.

ulcers;

and

for cancer.

Indigenous tribes

in Piura region of

Peru use

cat's

claw

tumors, inflammations, rheumatism, and gastric ulcers. Other Peruvian indigenous tribes use cat's claw to treat diabetes, urinary tract cancer in women,

to treat

hemorrhages, menstrual irregularity, cirrhosis, fevers, abscesses, gastritis, rheumatism, tumors, and inflammations as well as for internal cleansing and as a contrato "normalize the body." Reportedly, cat's claw has also been used ceptive by several different tribes of Peru (but only in very large dosages). Fernando Cabieses, MD, a noted authority on Peruvian medicinal plants, explains that the

Ashaninka

reduced

to little

boil 5 to 6

more than

1

kg (about 12

sterility for three to

the root in water until

it is

cup daily) durthree consecutive months; this supposedly

cup. This decoction

ing the period of menstruation for

causes

lbs.) of

four years.

Cat's claw has been used in Peru

is

then taken

(1

^

and Europe since the early 1990s as an

adjunctive treatment for cancer and AIDS, as well as for other diseases that target the

immune

system.

around the world

for

many

In herbal

medicine today,

cat's

different conditions, including

gastritis, ulcers, cancer, arthritis,

is

employed

immune

disorders,

claw

rheumatism, rheumatic disorders, neuralgias.

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

219

chronic inflammation of

all

kinds, and such viral diseases as herpes zoster

DC, has written several articles on cat's claw and refers to it as the "opener of the way" for its ability to cleanse the entire intestinal tract and its effectiveness in treating stomach and bowel disorders (such as Crohn's disease, leaky bowel syndrome, ulcers, gastritis, diverticulitis, and other inflammatory conditions of the bowel, stomach, and intestines). Julian Whitaker, MD, (shingles). Brent Davis,

reports using cat's claw for

its

immune-stimulating

prevent strokes and heart attacks, to reduce blood

and

PLANT CHEMICALS

indicating they increase

function by up in

much

of the

and most studied is a group of oxidole alkaloids has been documented with immune-stimulant and antileukemic properAnother group of chemicals called quinovic acid glycosides have docuand

uses. First

in

of four U.S. patents

to 50 percent

for diverticulitis

mented anti-inflammatory and antiviral actions. Antioxidant chemicals (tannins, catechins, and procyanidins) as well as plant sterols (beta-sitosterol, stigmas-

claw are the subject

immune

and

help

bowel syndrome.

plant's actions

ties.

cat’s

clots,

Cat's claw has several groups of plant chemicals that account for

that

Alkaloid chemicals

irritable

effects, for cancer, to

terol,

for the plant's anti-inflammatory properties.

A

compounds known as carboxyl alkyl esters found in cat's claw has been documented with immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, anticancerous, and

class of

cell-repairing properties.

Cat's claw contains ajmalicine, akuammigine, campesterol, catechin, car-

relatively

small amounts.

and campesterol) account

boxyl alkyl esters, chlorogenic acid, cinchonain, corynantheine, corynoxeine, daucosterol, epicatechin, harman, hirsuteine, hirsutine, iso-pteropodine, loganic

acid, lyaloside, mitraphylline, oleanolic acid, palmitoleic acid, procyanidins,

pteropodine quinovic acid glycosides, rhynchophylline, phylline, stigmasterol, strictosidines, uncarine

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND CLINICAL RESEARCH Clinical

research confirms

that cat’s claw vine-bark

extracts boost

immune

function, which have

been

used since the 1980s

in

Europe for immunerelated conditions.

With so it is

many documented

not surprising that

entists.

it

rutin, sitosterols, specio-

A through

F,

and vaccenic

acid.

traditional uses of this important rainforest plant,

came

to the attention of

Studies began in the early 1970s

Western researchers and

when Klaus

sci-

Keplinger, a journalist and

from Innsbruck, Austria, organized the first definitive work on cat's claw. Keplinger 's work in the 1970s and 1980s led to several extracts of cat's claw being sold in Austria and Germany as herbal drugs,~~* as self-taught ethnologist

well as the filing of four U.S. patents describing extraction procedures for the immune-stimulating oxindole alkaloids.^-^ These novel oxindole alkaloids fueled

worldwide

interest in the medicinal properties of this valuable vine of

the rainforest. Other independent researchers in Spain, France, Japan, Germany, and Peru followed Keplinger, many of them confirming his research on the

immuno-stimulating alkaloids

in the

vine and root.

Many of these studies pub-

lished from the late 1970s to early 1990s indicated that the

whole oxindole

alka-

The Healing Power of

220

Rainforest Herbs

whole vine bark and/or root bark extracts, or six individuallyincreased tested oxindole alkaloids, when used in relatively small amounts, immune function by up to 50 percent.^"^^ These study results were substantiated by Canadian researchers at the University of Ottawa (1999) and by Peruvian

loid fraction,

whole vine extract.^^'^^ Proprietary extracts of cat^s claw have been manufactured since 1999. Clinbeen published ical studies, funded by the manufacturers of these extracts, have showing that these cat's claw products continue to provide the same immune-

researchers (1998), both working with Unsubstantiated product-

sponsored research has confused consumers

about the long-established

and well-researched immune-stimulating effects of cat’s claw’s

oxindole alkaloids.

stimulating benefits as has been

But then facts concerning

documented

for almost

cat's claw's benefits

twenty years.

became confusing,

as often

happens with market-driven research. A manufacturer of a cat s claw extract funded a test tube study about these immune-stimulating alkaloids. The research indicated that, supposedly, two different types (chemotypes) of cat s claw vines are growing in the rainforest, and/ or that cat's claw produces good

and "bad alkaloids." It has coined the "good ones" pentacyclic (POA) alkaloids and the "bad ones" tetracyclic (TOA) alkaloids; both are oxindole alkaloids. The research and marketing attempt to suggest that one set of "bad alkaloids" counteracts the immune benefits of the "good alkaloids."

alkaloids"

—

This research has not been confirmed by independent researchers that is, those who are not selling cat's claw or being paid by companies selling cat's claw. This research has also not been confirmed in

humans

or animals. This

market-driven research would seek to discount or disprove all the definitive, independent research done over the last three decades in Japan, Peru, Germany,

same researchers). Much of the previous independent research was performed on whole oxindole extracts and whole root or vine extracts (some in humans and

Spain, and the United States (including the four U.S. patents filed by these

animals). This research

documented the presence

of both types of alkaloids,

both of which showed immune-stimulant actions. Indeed, some of the "new research" refuted the marketer's original (and independently confirmed) findings!

As

for the possibility of a

new chemotype;

a plant doesn't

change

its

chemical constituency in five years. Again, two species of cat's claw exist— 17. tornentosa and U. guianensis; they have a similar chemical makeup but a different ratio of oxindole alkaloids. Admittedly U. tornentosa has declined in the Peruvian rainforest because of overharvesting in the last five to eight years. The

lower growing and easier-to-find U. guianensis variety is a common "adulterant" in many large lots of cat's claw bulk material being exported out of South

America today. In addition to its erties

immune-stimulating

anticancerous prop-

and other constituents in cat's the oxindole alkaloids have been clinically documented with in

have been documented

claw. Five of

activity, in vitro

for these alkaloids

Medicinal Plants of the

Recent research has reported that

may

cat’s

claw

provide an

anticancerous action (especially against breast

cancer

cells)

and may be

beneficial in reducing

chemotherapy

side

effects.

Amazon

vitro

221

antileukemic properties,^^ and various root and bark extracts have demon-

and anticancerous properties.

strated antitumorous

reported in a 2001

human

a

it

cat's

claw directly inhibited the growth of

by 90 percent,

Swedish researchers documented cells in vitro in 1998.^^

with cancer patients

trials

while another research group

inhibited the binding of estrogens in

phoma and leukemia vatory

study that

breast cancer cell line

reported that in vitro?^

in vitro

traditional cancer therapies as

Italian researchers

— taking

it

human

breast cancer cells

inhibited the

growth of lym-

Early reports on Keplinger's obser-

cat's

claw

in conjunction

chemotherapy and radiation

with such

— reported

fewer

side effects to the traditional therapies (such as hair loss, weight loss, nausea,

secondary infections, and skin problems).^ Subsequent researchers have shown

how in

these effects might be possible

DNA cellular

vent the loss

cat's

claw can aid

and prevent cells from mutating; it also can help preof white blood cells and immune cell damage caused by many repair

chemotherapy drugs Another

—they have reported that

common

(a

side effect called leukopenia).

significant area of study has focused

on

cat's claw's anti-inflam-

and antioxidant chemicals found in cat's claw account for some of these properties, new and novel plant chemicals called qiiinovic acid glycosides were documented to be the most potent anti-inflammamatory properties. While plant

sterols

and subsequent ones indicated that cat's claw (and, especially, its glycosides) could inhibit inflammation from 46 percent up to 89 percent in various in vivo and in vitro tests.'^'^^ The results of tory constituents of the plant.^"^ This study

these studies validated

its

long history of indigenous use for arthritis and

rheumatism, as well as

for other types of

was

shown

orders.

It

also clinically

to

inflammatory stomach and bowel

be effective against stomach ulcers

dis-

in

an

in vivo rat study."^^

Other research

validates

cat’s claw’s long history

of indigenous use for arthritis

and rheumatism,

Research

in

Argentina reports that

cat's

other researchers in 2000 concluded that

it is

claw

is

an effective

antioxidant;'^'^

an antioxidant as well as

ably potent inhibitor of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha production. resents a

model

for

a

remark-

TNF rep-

tumor growth driven by an inflammatory cytokine

as well as for other types

chemical.'^ Other researchers in the United States reported in 2002 that the anti-

of inflammatory stomach

inflammatory actions of

and bowel disorders.

cat's

claw are not attributable

to

immune-stimulating

group of chemicals called carboxyl alkyl estersd^ This would explain why a product comprised of mostly alkaloids showed only modest benefit to arthritis patients— in a study by another group that was incidentally selling a special alkaloid preparation of cat's claw.-^^ The same group alkaloids, but rather to another

of anti-inflammatory glycoside chemicals also demonstrated in vitro antiviral

properties in another earlier study.*^^ In addition to the

immunostimulant

loids rhynchophylline, hirsutine,

alkaloids, cat's claw contains the alka-

and mitraphylline, which have demonstrated

The Healing Power of

222

most

recently

shown

possible

Cat’s claw

has

applications for heart function, Alzheimer’s disease, and mild

depression.

the ability to lower blood pressure

and

dilate

Rainforest Herbs

blood vessels.

Rhyncho-

prevent blood clots in blood vessels, dilate peripheral cholesterol.^^'^® blood vessels, lower the heart rate, and lower blood levels of people research indicates that cat's claw might be helpful to

shown

phylline has

Some

of the

to

newer

could be attributable to the antioxidant effects the possibly, to the dilation of peripheral blood vessels in

with Alzheimer's disease; already confirmed

or,

this

brain by alkaloids such as rhynchophylline.^^''’^ Another research group recently reported that cat's claw

s

immune-stimu-

and isopteropodine might have other properties to have and applications. They reported that these two chemicals have shown called 5-HT(2) recepa positive modulating effect on brain neurotransmitters variety of torsP These receptor sites are targets for drugs used in treating a

lating alkaloids pteropodine

chronic pain conconditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ditions,

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

and

obesity.

quite popular in the natural products industry and is and prevenmostly taken today to boost immune function, as an overall tonic bowel and colon probtative to stay healthy, for arthritis and inflammation, for

grown

Cat's claw has

The most common forms both of which have become

lems, and as a complementary therapy for cancer.

used today are

cat's

claw capsules and

tablets,

widely available in most health food stores

at

reasonable prices. There are also

newer (and more expensive) proprietary extracts of cat s claw capsules, some backed by research albeit paid-for research.

in tablets

and

—

A good-quality, natural cat's claw vine-bark with naturally occurring chemicals is the best value,

money

wise.

It

contains

all

the chemicals that nature

antiprovides in the proper ratio (including immune-stimulating alkaloids, inflammatory glycosides, and antioxidant chemicals), without chemical inter-

vention.

Some

invasive extraction and manufacturing techniques

may

only

one particular type of chemical, or change the complex ratio of naturalwhich ignores the efficiency and synergy ly occurring chemicals in the plant chemicals work of the plant. Scientists do not fully know how all these complex novel active together in harmony. In fact, scientists are still discovering new and claw. chemicals in this plant, even after over twenty years of research on cat's

extract

As

—

increased for this rainforest plant over the last five companies have gone into the business of harvesting it, and the

the market

years,

more

demand has

from South America can be sometimes giiianensis is questionable. Oftentimes, a combination of U. tomentosa and U. and sold as "cat's claw" (as, presently, the giiianensis species is found

quality of the bulk materials

coming

in

harvested

more

easily).

best results

Pick a good quality and trusted label and manufacturer for the

and the best value.

Medicinal Plants of the

Traditional

Preparation

Amazon

223

For general

immune and

prevention benefits, practitioners usually

recommend

g daily of vine powder in tablets or capsules. Therapeutic dosages of cat's claw are reported to be as high as 20 g daily and average 2-3 g two or three 1

times daily. Generally, as a natural aid for

arthritis,

bowel, and digestive prob-

lems, taking 3-5 g daily is recommended, if a good product is obtained. Alternatively, a standard vine bark decoction can be used in much the same way

Amazon

The dosage for a standard decoction for general health and maintenance is V2 -I cup of a decoction once daily and up to 1 cup three times daily in times of special needs. Adding lemon juice or vinegar to the decoction when boiling will help extract more alkaloids and fewer tannins from the bark. Use about V2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar indigenous people of the

use

it.

per cup of water. For standardized and/or proprietary extract products, follow the label instructions.

Contraindications

documented with immune-stimulant effects and contraindicated before or following any organ or bone marrow transplant or

Cat's claw has been clinically is

skin graft. Cat's claw has been

documented with

traindicated in persons seeking to get pregnant.

been proven it

to

and

anti-fertility properties

However,

this effect

is

con-

has not

be sufficient for the product to be used as a contraceptive, and

should not be relied on for such. Cat's claw has chemicals that can reduce platelet aggregation

and

thin the

Check with your doctor first if you are taking coumadin or other bloodthinning drugs, and discontinue use one week to ten days prior to any major

blood.

surgical procedure.

Cat's claw vine bark requires sufficient stomach acid to help break

down

the

tannins and alkaloids during digestion and to aid in absorption. Avoid taking

bark capsules or tablets

at the

same time

as antacids. Avoid taking high tannin

(dark-colored) liquid extracts and tinctures directly by in

water or acidic juice (such as orange

mouth and

dilute

first

juice).

Large dosages of cat's claw (3-4 g doses at a time) have been reported to cause some abdominal pain or gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea

(due to the tannin content of the vine bark) in some people. The diarrhea or loose stools tend to be mild and go away with continued use. Discontinue use or reduce dosage

Drug

Interactions

Due

to its

if

diarrhea persists longer than three or four days.

immune-stimulant

effects, cat's

claw should not be used with med-

immune

system, such as cyclosporin or other

ications intended to suppress the

medications prescribed following an organ transplant. (This theory has not

been proven

scientifically.)

pmuiiiiuiRiiii

j.i.

The Healing Power of

224

Based upon

damage

nal

claw

in vivo rat studies, cat's

may

Rainforest Herbs

protect against gastrointesti-

drugs (NSAIDs) associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

such as ibuprofen. Cat's claw

may

potentiate

coumadin and blood-thinning drugs.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Colombia

for dysentery,

French Guiana

for dysentery

Peru

for abscesses, AIDS, arthritis, asthma, blood cleansing,

gonorrhea

bone

disease pain, cancer, cirrhosis, diabetes, diarrhea,

hemorrhages, herpes, immune disorders, prevention, dysentery, fevers, gastric ulcers, gastritis, gonorrhea, cleansing, prostatitis, rheumatism, shingles, inflammations, intestinal disorders, menstrual irregularity, kidney skin disorders,

wounds stomach disorders, ulcers problems, urinary tract disorders, tumors, wounds

Suriname

for dysentery, intestinal disorders,

United

depression, diverticulitis, flu, gastritis, heart support, for arthritis, cancer, colds, colitis, Crohn’s disease, leukemia, rheumatism, skin disorders, disorders, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut,

States

immune

shingles (herpes zoster), ulcers, viruses,

wounds

CATUABA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

Family: Erythroxylaceae

Genus: Erythroxylum Species: catuaba

Common

Names:

catuaba, cataguT

chuchuhuasha. tatuaba,

pau de reposta, caramuru, piratangara, angelim-rosa. catigua

Part Used: bark

•

increases libido

•

relieves pain

•

calms nerves

•

kills

bacteria

•

reduces anxiety

•

kills

viruses

•

dilates

•

relaxes blood vessels

Erythroxylum catuaba

is

blood vessels

Standard Dosage Bark Infusion:

I

cup one to three

times daily Tincture: 2-3 ml twice daily

a vigorous-growing, small tree that

produces yellow

fruit. It grows and orange flowers and small, dark yellow, oval-shaped, inedible Pernambuco, Bahia, Maranin the northern part of Brazil in Amazonas, Para,

the family Erythroxylaceae, hao, and Alagoas. This catuaba tree belongs to whose principal genus, Erythroxylum, contains several species that are sources Catuaba, however, contains none of the active cocaine alkaloids. of cocaine.

A large amount of confusion exists today regarding the actual species of tree catuaba. harvested in Brazilian forests and sold around the world as catuaba" and Experienced Brazilian harvesters will refer to two species: a "big when relating these trees to a "small catuaba." The confusion thickens that

is

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

225

approved botanical species names. "Small catuaba" is Enjthwxyliim catuaba (cataloged and accepted in 1936), which grows 2-4 m tall and sports yellow-toorange flowers

mahogany

and— in

family,

ored flowers and

Brazil— is referred

in Brazil

—

is

referred to as catigua

over, three other (unapproved) botanical

commerce

in herbal

m

which grows 6-10

is Trichilia catigua,

—

to as catuaba. "Big catuaba," in the

names

and

tall,

augelim-rosa.

for catuaba are

today: Juniperus brasilmisis (which

has cream-col-

used incorrectly

thought

is

More-

to refer to

"small catuaba"), and Anemopaegma mirandum and Eriotheca candolleana, which are completely different species altogether.

Anemopaegma

huge

a

is

tree in the

m tall and

Bignonia family, growing to 40

called catuaba-verdadeira in Brazil. This species of tree

is

now

harvested and

exported out of Brazil by inexperienced or unethical harvesters (resulting in the incorporation in herbal products sold in the U.S. today) as just "catuaba." Ery-

throxylum catuaba and

Trichilia catigua

cine species, with the longest

are the preferred Brazilian herbal medi-

documented history

of use as "big

and

little

catuaba." Both types are used interchangeably in Brazilian herbal medicine sys-

tems

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

for the

Tupi Indians

in

as an aphrodisiac.

Indians

in

the

The

Amazon

have composed many songs praising

and

its

v/onders

effects as a sexual

stimulant.

medicine as an aphrodisiac. The

discovered the aphrodisiac qualities of the plant, and

last

Minas there is

is

a saying, "Until a father reaches 60, the

son

is his;

after that,

catuaba's!"

medicine today, catuaba

is

considered a central nervous

system stimulant with aphrodisiac properties.

A

bark decoction

In Brazilian herbal

a long

herbal medicine

in Brazil first

in herbal

few centuries have composed many songs praising its wonders and abilities. Indigenous and local peoples have used catuaba for generations. It is the most famous of all Brazilian aphrodisiac plants. In the Brazilian state over the

the son

history

conditions.

Catuaba has a long history of use

of

Catuaba has

same

is

commonly

used for sexual impotency, agitation, nervousness, nerve pain and weakness,

poor

memory

or forgetfulness, and sexual weakness. According to Dr. Meira

when

Penna, catuaba "functions as a stimulant of the nervous system, above

all

one deals with functional impotence of the male genital organs

an inno-

cent aphrodisiac, used without any

ill

effects at all."’ In Brazil,

an aphrodisiac with "proven efficacy" and, it

is

employed

for

many

disiac

and

In

a brain

regarded as impotence,

nervous system (such as

to the central

and nerve stimulant. debility,

A bark

is

used

sciatica

considered an aphrofor sexual

weakness,

and exhaustion. Herbalists and health

practition-

ers in the United States use catuaba in ital

is

in addition to treating

European herbal medicine, catuaba

impotence, nervous

it

it is

types of nervous conditions including insomnia,

hypochondria, and pain related

and neuralgia).

...

much

tea

the

is

same way:

as a tonic for gen-

function, as a central nervous system stimulant, for sexual impotence.

The Healing Power of

226

Rainforest Herbs

related to hypertension, agitation general exhaustion and fatigue, insomnia

and Michael van Straten, noted British author beneficial to men and women as an researcher of medicinal plants, catuaba is impotence that the most striking aphrodisiac, but "it is in the area of male no evidence of side effects, even after results have been reported" and "there is

and poor memory. According

to

long-term use."^

PLANT CHEMICALS

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

CLINICAL

RESEARCH

alkaloids, tannins, aromatThe chemical constituents found in catuaba include and phytosterols, cyclolignanS, sequiterpenes, ic oils and fatty resins, documented (in 1958) that catuaba conflavonoidsc^-6 One Brazilian researcher unclear which species of tree he was tained the alkaloid yohimbine (but it was cinchonain (also found in quistudying) 3 A mixture of flavalignans, including Trichilia catigua and reported to have nine bark), was isolated from the bark of antibacterial and anticancerous properties.^'^

Clinical studies

and

on catuaba

antiviral properties.

thoxlyum catuaba) Escherichia coli

was

and

also

have shown

results related to its antibacterial

A 1992 study indicated that an extract of catuaba {Ery-

effective in protecting

mice from

lethal infections of

Staphlococciis aureus, in addition to inhibiting

HIV

signifi-

anti-HIV activity ^^e study found that the pathway of catuaba's absorption into cells, and stemmed (at least partially) from the inhibition of HIV opportunistic infections in HIV suggested that catuaba had potential against to a group of Brazilian researchers patients.^ A U.S. patent was granted (in 2002)

cantly.3

Research with animals

show

that catuaba can

relieve pain

and

for a

catuaba bark extract

that reported that

inhibit

bacteria and viruses.

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

rabbits,

had

it

and guinea

{Trichilia catigua).

relieved pain pigs.*^

and relaxed and dilated blood vessels

A study published in

significant pain-relieving activity iu

To date, no

This patent refers to animal studies

toxicity studies

in rats,

1997 reported that catuaba bark

vivo.^^''

have been published on catuaba

but

its

long his-

or ill effects. In fact, according to tory of use in Brazil has reported no toxicity are beneficial— erotic dreams and Dr. Meira Penna, the only side effects has validated the traditionincreased sexual desire! While no clinical research to be used widely for its abiliuse of catuaba as an aphrodisiac, it continues libido in both men and women. In the ty to enhance sexual drive and increase grown in the North American herbal marlast several years, its popularity has now available in health with various products (especially libido formulas)

al

ket,

food stores. Catuaba

is

also

showing up

in other

formulas for depression,

stress,

which species is being sold, and nervous disorders. (The jury's still out as to reputable manufacturer and however!) Interested consumers should seek a species for the herbal ingreproduct with a verified plant source and botanical

—

dient being sold.

Medicinal Plants of the

Traditional

Preparation

Amazon

227

Generally, in Brazil, a standard infusion (bark tea) and an alcohol tincture are

employed. Recommended usage or 2-3

ml

reported to be 1-3 cups of an infusion daily,

of a standard alcohol tincture twice daily.

Contraindications

None known.

Drug

None known.

Interactions

is

Worldwide Ethnobotanical Uses Region

Uses an aphrodisiac, central nervous system stimulant, and tonic; for exhaustion, fatigue, forgetfulness, frigidity, general pain, genitals, hypochondria, impotence, insomnia, nerve pain, nervousness, poor memory, sexual weakness, sleep, syphilis

Peru

for skin cancer

United States

as an aphrodisiac, stimulant, and tonic; for fatigue, impotency, insomnia,

system weakness,

Elsewhere

pain,

poor memory,

sleep,

nervous exhaustion, nervous

weakness

for brain, circulation, fatigue, genitals, impotence, low libido, nervous system

CHA DE BUGRE HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions •

decreases appetite

•

kills

•

reduces

•

reduces fever

cellulite

•

increases urination

•

supports heart

•

stimulates

Family: Boraginaceae

Standard Dosage

viruses

Leaves Infusion:

claraiba, cafe

de

1

hour

two to

three times daily Tablets/Capsules: 2-3 g twice daily

salicifolia,

Names:

cha de bugre, porangaba, cafezinho, cafe

to

'/2

Tincture: 2-3 ml

ecalyculata

Common

cup

before meals

Genus: Cordia Species:

1

do mato,

Cha de bugre in diameter.

is

It is

a small tree

growing 8-12

m

in height

with a trunk

30^0 cm

indigenous to Brazil and can be found growing predominate-

de bugre, cha

Minas Gerais, Bahia, Acre, and Goias. It is also found Argentina and Paraguay. In Brazil, the tree is botani-

ly in the Brazilian states of frade, louro-salgueiro,

louro-mole, boid d’inde, bois d’ine, coquelicot,

grao-do-

porco, bugrinho, cha-de

negro mina,

laranjeira do-

mato, rabugem

Parts Used: leaves,

fruit,

bark

in tropical forest areas of

Paraguay the same

cally classified as Cordia salicifolia

and

Cordia ecalyculata. In Brazil,

commonly

it

is

in

tree

is

classified as

called cafe do mato (coffee of the

woods) because it produces a red fruit resembling ed and brewed into tea as a coffee substitute.

a coffee bean,

which

is

roast-

The Healing Power of

228

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Cha de

bugre, which

suppresses the appetite

and reduces

cellulite,

is

Cha de bugre products

m

Brazil, weight-loss aid are highly commercialized as a seen and tinctures of cha de bugre are commonly

and even

in pharmacies, stores,

and refreshment stands has long been a popular

in the beach-front eateries

rule!). It along Rio de Janeiro's beaches (where bikinis as a diuretic and appetite supweight-loss product, which has been marketed fatty deposits and cellulite. Sevpressant, and believed to help prevent or reduce company re-launched a cha de bugre eral years ago, an enterprising Brazilian porangaba, and market demand weight-loss product, calling it by its Indian name, the Dr. G.L. Cruz in his book, Dictionanj of in Brazil has been fierce ever since. bugre as an excellent diuretic and Plants Used in Brazil, recommends cha de help stimulate a good general heart tonic, which can

weight-loss aid as well as

and Haiti as a tea to help relieve coughs, externally to heal wounds. renal function, and reduce uric acid, and

circulation. in Brazil.

ulate

PLANT CHEMICALS

Herbs

tea bags, fluid extracts,

where

one of the most popular dieting aids

Rainforest

It is

used

also

in Brazil

reg-

Brazil, very little has been done to Despite the popularity of cha de bugre in present it is known to contain cafanalyze the phytochemicals in the plant. At fruits or berries of cha potassium, allantoin, and allantoic acid. The red feine,

de bugre (resembling a coffee bean) contain toic acid

may explain

caffeine.

The

the traditional use of the plant for

wound

acid, caffeine, plant chemicals include allantoin, allantoic

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Since cha de bugre

very

little clinical

Brazil.

A Japanese

is

a

commonly

allantoin

and

allan-

healing.^

Mam

and potassium.

and popular natural product already, has been shown to study the plant in

sold

research or interest

university, however, has discovered

some new uses

for

cha

extract reduced herpes virus de bugre. In 1990, they demonstrated that a leaf cells with the extract. ^ In 1994, penetration by 99 percent when they pretreated percent with demonstrated that the herpes virus yield was reduced by 33

they as

Research has validated cha de bugre’s traditional use to support heart function.

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

little

meg /ml, and

as 0.25

also discovered that

it

had

toxic activity against

extract of the (demonstrating a 40 percent inhibition), utilizing an rabbits and guinea pigs valbranches and leaves.^ Then, in 1997, research with heart tonic when cardiotonic and idated the traditional use of the plant as a

cancer

cells

extract) increased cardiovascular actions (using a leaf

One

was

reported.*^

on Rio's beaches than most American beaches, phenomenon is probably not attributed to just cha de bugre! be sold as cha de bugre or porangaba, it will probably long

certainly sees less cellulite

however,

Whether

this it is

called

a natural weight-loss aid in Rio

and throughout

Brazil.

It is

a great appetite sup-

causing intense

together (then pressant-but rather than cutting off appetite all gives one a sense of being full hunger when it wears off at the wrong time) it This seems to promote much and satiated after eating only a few bites of food.

smaller meals, for sustained

more

often,

which

is

what many

practitioners believe

is

better

throughout the weight loss and keeping the metabolism going

Medicinal Plants of the Annazon

day.

It

bugre

229

works best

taken thirty minutes to one hour prior to a meal. Cha de

if

not widely available in the U.S. market today, but give it some time these types of natural weight-loss aids are just as popular (and profitable) here as they are in South America especially if they work. is

.

.

—

Traditional

Preparation

One cup of a or 2-3

ml

leaf infusion

to three times daily, thirty

of a 4:1 leaf tincture twice daily.

tablets or capsules,

Contraindications

None

reported.

Drug

None

reported.

Interactions

two

one

minutes before meals.

desired, 2-3 g of powdered leaf in to three times daily, can be substituted. If

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

as a circulatory stimulant, diuretic, and heart tonic; for arthritis, cellulite, circulatory insufficiency, cough,

energy, fever, gout, kidney stones, obesity, renal insufficiency, rheumatism,

Haiti

as a digestive stimulant, for obesity

Japan

as an antiviral, for

wounds

herpes

CHANCA PIEDRA HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Main Actions

Other Actions

•

expels stones

•

kills

•

supports kidneys

•

treats malaria

•

increases urination

•

prevents mutation

•

relieves pain

•

reduces fever

•

protects

•

mildly laxative

•

detoxifies liver

•

expels

•

reduces spasnns

•

reduces inflannnnation

•

kills

•

clears obstructions

•

aids digestion

•

reduces blood sugar

•

lowers blood pressure

•

lowers cholesterol

liver

bacteria

worms

Standard Dosage

Whole herb Infusion:

1

cup two to three

times daily Fluid Extracts:

to three times daily Capsules/Tablets:

twice daily

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Genus: Phyllanthus Species:

niruri,

Common

viruses

amarus

Names:

chanca piedra, quebra pedra, stone- breaker, arranca-pedras,

punarnava, amli, bhonya.

2-4 ml two

l-2g

The Healing Power of

230

bhoomi

amalaki, bhui-amla,

bhui amla, bhuianvalah,

bhuimy-amali. bhuin-amla,

bhumyamalaki, cane peas

Chanca piedra

indigenous to the rainforests of the

is

dos, deye do, erva-pombinha, elrageig, elrigeg, evatbimi,

gale-wind grass, graine en bas

weed,

fievre, hurricane

amla, jar amla, kizha

jar-

nelli,

malva-pedra, mapatan, paraparai mi, paraparai mi, pei,

phyllanto,

pombinha, quinine

weed, sacha

cane

foster,

senna, creole senna, shka-nindu, viernes santo, ya-taibai,

yaa

tai bai,

yah-tai-bai,

yerba

de san pablo Parts Used: entire plant

ing freely

P

MEDICINE USES

(much

weed).

like a

urnimrin and

P.

to

changeably as

if

referring to

one

classified

P.

amariis as a type of

the

Amazon

effective

as an

remedy to

eliminate kidney stones for generations.

It

P. niniri.

or

shat-

name of the plant, chanca piedra, means "stone breaker use by generations of Amazonian It was named for its effective

Spanish

ter stone."

and gallstones. In Brazil, the indigenous peoples in eliminating kidney stones (which also translates to breakplant is known as ipiebra-pedra or arranca-pedras stones and highly effective natural remedy for kidney It is

a leading

kidney stones, the plant is employed indigenous peoples, for numerous other conditions by the jaundice, vagdiabetes, malaria, dysentery, fever, flu, tumors, use dyspepsia. Based on its long documented history of

Amazon colic,

to

gonorrhea, and

in the region, the plant is generally

by indigenous peoples of

to

became so confusing that, in the PIn/llniitIms genus was conducted which

plant.

1990s, a major reorganization of the

initis,

has been used

sellmmmis are closely related

be synonymous with

including

it

P.

deal of confusion among scienspheres. Unfortunately, there remains a great and, in many cases, plant misidentification fisfs regarding planf identification anumis and P. sellmvianus makes evaluation of published information difficult. P or else no distinction is made among are often considered a variety of P niruri, research. Often, one name is indicated these three species, in published clinical interanother and, sometimes, both names are used

in the

because

other tropical areas through-

Brazil, in the drier tropical climates of India,

throughout South America. In addition

called “stone breaker"

It

and even Florida and Texas. shrubs, trees, and herbs The Pht/llanthus genus contains over 600 species of subtropical. regions of both hemidistributed throughout the tropical and

found

stone").

Chanca piedra has been

m height.

but typically are appearance, chemical structure, and history of use,

niniri in

TRIBAL The

AND HERBAL

Amazon and

grows 30-40 cm

southern India, and China. P. mnin is out the world, including the Bahamas, wet rainforests, growing and spreadquite prevalent In the Amazon and other

senna, carry-me-seed, creole senna, daun mahsan, derriere-

a small, erect, weed-like herb that

is

Rainforest Herbs

used

to

reduce pain, expel intestinal gas,

and as a mild laxative. stimulate and promote digestion, expel worms, systems in every tropChanca piedra has a long history in herbal medicine For the most part, it is employed for similar conical

country where

it

grows.

main uses are for many types of biliary and urinary stones; for hepatitis, colds, flu, conditions including kidney and gallbladder diseases and disorders including tuberculosis, and other viral infections; liver

ditions worldwide.

Its

bacterial infections such as cystitis, anemia, jaundice, and liver cancer; and for tract infections. It is also sexually transmitted diseases, and urinary prostatitis,

well as for widely used for diabetes and hypertension as

its

fever-reducing, relieving, digestive stimulant, antispasmodic, tective properties in

many

other conditions.

diuretic, pain-

and

cellular-pro-

Medicinal Plants of the

PLANT CHEMICALS

Amazon

231

Since the mid-1960s, chanca piedra has been the subject of cal research to

much phytochemi-

determine the active constituents and their pharmacological

activities. It is a rich

been found only

source of plant chemicals, including

in the Phyllauthus genus.

Many of the

many which have

''active" constituents are

attributed to biologically active lignans, glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, ellagitannins, and phenylpropanoids found in the leaf, stem, and root of the plant.

Common

lipids, sterols,

and flavonols also occur

The main plant chemicals vifolin,

echins,

in the plant.

chanca piedra include alkaloids, astragalin, brecarboxylic acids, corilagin, cymene, ellagic acid, ellagitannins, gallocatgeraniin,

in

hypophyllanthin, lignans, lintetralins, lupeols, methyl

salicylate, niranthin, nirtetralin, niruretin, nirurin, nirurine, niruriside, norse-

curinines, phyllanthin, phyllanthine, phyllanthenol, phyllochrysine, phyltetralin,

repandusinic acids, quercetin, quercetol, quercitrin, rutin, saponins,

triacontanal,

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

AND

It is little

and

tricontanol.

wonder

that chanca piedra

medicine systems:

is

used

many purposes

for so

in herbal

over the years, the plant has demon-

in clinical research

CLINICAL

strated liver-protective, antilithic (expels stones), pain-relieving, hypotensive,

RESEARCH

antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, diuretic, antimutagenic, and hypoglycemic activities. Due to the confusion among P. niruri, P. amariis, and P. selloioiamis over the years (and the reclassification of the genus), the research

reviewed herein

will

encompass

that

which has been reported on

all

three of

these very similar species.

The

Clinical research validates

chanca piedra’s long-

first

notable area of study has validated chanca piedra's long-standing

traditional use for

kidney stones.

In 1990, the Paulista School of

humans and

Medicine

in

Sao

standing use for kidney

Paulo, Brazil, conducted studies with

stones: animal research

They were given a simple tea of chanca piedra for one to three months and it was reported that the tea promoted the elimination of stones.^ They also report-

suggests that eliminate as

it

can

v^ell as

prevent the formation of kidney stones.

ed

a significant increase in urine

tion.

kidney stones with

pharmacies throughout

this natural

new

doctors about the ability

remedy and now

it is

found

in

many

Brazil.

In a 1999 in vitro clinical study, a to block the

with kidney stones.

output as well as sodium and creatine excre-

Subsequently, the medical school educated

to treat

rats

chanca piedra extract exhibited the

ability

formation of calcium oxalate crystals (the building blocks of most

kidney stones), which indicates that

it

might be

a useful preventative aid for

people with a history of kidney stones.- In a 2002

seeded the bladders of

rats

in vivo

study, researchers

with calcium oxalate crystals and treated them for

forty-two days with a water extract of chanca piedra. Their results indicated that

chanca piedra strongly inhibited the growth and number of stones formed

over the control group. Several of the animals even passed the stones which

The Healing Power of

232

Rainforest Herbs

could confirmed in vitro that chanca piedra did form. In 2003, scientists again with stones, stating, "that it may interfere kidney of formation the prevent help represent an alternative form of may and formation stone of stages the early treatment and/or prevention of urolithiasis.'"* activity of chanca piedra Previously (in the mid-1980s), the antispasmodic that "smooth muscle relaxation reported. This led researchers to surmise facilitates the expulsion of kidney within the urinary or biliary tract probably had already reported chanca piedra's antior bladder calculi."^ Researchers a uterand smooth muscle relaxant properties (including

was

spasmodic

properties*-

that Dr. In 1990, Nicole Maxwell reported ine relaxant effect) in earlier studies.^ treated over 100 kidney stone Wolfram Wiemann (of Nuremburg, Germany) Peru and found it to be 94 percent sucpatients with chanca piedra obtained in a week or two.* cessful in eliminating stones within

Chanca piedra has demonstrated the

ability

to reduce cholesterol,

blood pressure, and

blood sugar, as well as to increase urination. This

research validate

in its

animals helps

uses

in

herbal

medicine for hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Chanca piedra

is

gallstones and, while no also used in herbal medicine for one study does that specifically validated this use,

research has been performed In a 2002 effect on gallbladder processes. indicate that chanca piedra has an secrethat chanca piedra increased bile acid study, Indian researchers reported levels significantly lowered blood cholesterol tion in the gallbladder and and triglyceride levels was beneficial effects of lowering cholesterol

m

rats.^

The

also confirmed

by anofher

in vivo (rat)

study

in 1985.’*

been explored by research, as The plant's traditional use for hypertension has reported in a dog study in 1952 (in which well. The hypotensive effects were first The hypotensive effects were attributed to a spea diuretic effect was noted also)."

1988 study.” In 1995, phyfochemical in chanca piedra called genwiin in a with high blood pressure chanca piedra Indian researchers gave human subjects blood a significant reduction in systolic

cific

powder in capsules and reporfed urine volume and sodium excretion. pressure, and a significant increase in recorded as far back as 1929 and, Chanca piedra's diuretic effect in humans was

leaf

-

in India, a tablet of

chanca piedra (called Pnnarnava)

is

sold as a diurefic.

blood sugar levels studied.’" Two other studies with were reduced significantly in human subjects in diadocument the hypoglycemic effect of chanca piedra In the

rabbits’5

above 1995 study, researchers also reported

that

rats’*

betic animals. Yet another study

documented chanca piedra with aldose reduc-

Aldose reductases are substances that act on sugar concentration and can lead to dianerve endings exposed to high blood degeneration. Inhibitors of these substances can betic neuropathy and macular that occur, and thus protect the nerve. prevent some of the chemical imbalances attributed, in part, to a plant chemical This ARl effect of chanca piedra was plant chemical has been documented with ellagic acid. This well-studied tase inhibition (ARl) properties.’"

called

many

other beneficial effects in

numerous

clinical studies (over

300 to date).

Medicinal Plants of the

Chanca piedra has shown in

the laboratory to be an effective pain-reliever: a single chemical in the

plant

was documented to

be seven times more potent than aspirin or

acetaminophen.

Amazon

233

Another area of research has focused on the pain-relieving effects of chanca piedra. So far, researchers at this Brazilian university have published six studies

on

their findings.

The

first

three studies reported strong

and dose-depend-

ent pain-relieving effects in mice given extracts of chanca piedra against six different laboratory-induced pain models.^^-^o In 1996, they isolated

and

tested

chanca piedra's hypotensive plant chemical geraniin and reported that it was seven times more potent as a pain-reliever than aspirin or acetaminophen.^^ Their last two studies (published in 2000) continued to document chanca piedra's pain-relieving effects against normal pain models in mice, and, newlytested nerve-related pain models.^2,23 Again, they related this effect to the

geraniin plant chemical and reported

its

ability to inhibit several neurotrans-

and receive pain signals in the brain.^^ Unlike aspirin (which can harm the mucousal lining of the stomach and cause ulcers), geraniin has been reported to have antiulcerous properties and to protect the gastric mitter processes that relay

tract, instead.

This pain-relieving effect

ing chanca piedra for kidney stones

(a

is

probably

why

so

many

people tak-

very painful affair) report such quick

and long before chanca piedra could actually break down and expel

relief,

a

stone.

The

liver-protecting activity of chanca piedra

been established

in clinical research

have been attributed

named

phyllanthin

another subject which has

is

with animals and humans. These effects

two novel plant chemicals in chanca piedra and hypopihyllanthin. The researchers who reported the choto (at least)

lesterol-lowering effects also reported that chanca piedra protected rats from liver

damage induced by

study and four

in vivo

alcohol and normalized a "fatty

Two human

and detoxifing actions

One

in vitro

document that extracts of damage from various chemical

studies (with rats and mice)

chanca piedra effectively protect against liver toxins.

liver.''^^

liver

studies reported chanca piedra's liver protective

in children

ers reported that chanca piedra

with hepatitis and jaundice. Indian research-

was an

effective single

drug

in the

treatment of

jaundice in children,^'^ and British researchers reported that children treated

with a chanca piedra extract for acute hepatitis had liver function return to nor-

mal within

chanca piedra can protect, detoxify,

and even help

regenerate the

liver.

when chanca

China also reported

liver protective

was given to adults with chronic hepatitis.^^ A 2000 study even documented that chanca piedra increased the life span of mice with liver cancer from thirty-three weeks (control group without treat-

actions Research suggests that

five days.^^ Researchers in

ment)

to fifty-two

piedra

weeks.

Another research group

tried to

induce

liver cancer

mice that had been pre-treated with a water extract of chanca piedra. Their results indicated the chanca piedra extract dose-dependently lowered tumor in

incidence, levels of carcinogen-metabolizing enzymes, levels of liver cancer

markers, and liver injury markers.

Both studies indicate that the plant has a

The Healing Power of

234

and slow down the growth

better ability to prevent

Rainforest Herbs

of tumors, rather than a

cells. direct toxic effect or ability to kill cancer

Some new

may

research

suggest that chanca piedra might have applications for cancer

prevention.

ability to stop cells from well be that chanca piedra's documented anticancerous activity. In mutating plays an important factor in this reported cultures), extracts of chanca piedra several animal studies (as well as within cell from mutating in the preshave stopped or inhibited cells (including liver cells) A strand cellular mutations and ence of chemical substances known to create cells).^^-^? ^gain, one of these breaks (which can lead to the creation of cancerous several enzyme processes pecustudies indicated that chanca piedra inhibited growth— rather than a direct toxic effect of liar to cancer cells' replication and and lymphoma cells were studied). killing the cancer cell (sarcoma, carcinoma, It

may

DN

in other research, which indicatThis cellular-protective quality was evidenced chemically-induced bone marrow damed that chanca piedra protected against

damage in mice.^^ age in mice,38 as well as against radiation-induced most extensive and the most The last area of published research (which is the properties. Both human and aniconfusing) concerns chanca piedra's antiviral the liver, even during hepamal studies indicate that chanca piedra can protect titis

activity in

Over twenty

clinical

studies have

been

published to date about

chanca piedra’s

antiviral

effects against hepatitis;

other studies indicate antiviral actions against

the

HIV

virus.

antiviral Chanca piedra has also been reported to have direct hepatitis B virus. human, animal, and test tube studies against the and have been published to date about these effects,

infection.

Over twenty clinical studies confusing (unless thoroughly evaluated). the results have been inconsistent and merit sifting through the dis Hepatitis is enough of a worldwide concern to the leading cause of liver cancer parate studies. Hepatitis B infection (HBV) is

200 considered 100 percent fatal. Carriers of HBV are after initial infection. Many times more likely to develop liver cancer decades often, asymptomatic) carriers people who contract HBV become chronic (and, to others. HBV is reported to be 100 of the disease while still being contagious is transmitted through blood times more infectious than HIV and, like HIV, mother to child in the needles, sexual contact, and iu utero (from

worldwide— which

is

transfusions,

are are staggering: one out of every 250 Americans new HBV carriers! The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 200,000 are added to the current estimate of one U.S. cases of HBV infection per year 300 million worldwide). The million carriers in the U.S. (and an estimated annual deaths from cirrhosis and 1,000 also reports that (in the U.S.) 3 000 4,000 when Dr. Baruch Blumberg reportdeaths from liver cancer are HBV-related. So B in clear up the chronic carrier state of hepatitis

womb).

Statistics

on

HBV

CDC

,

ed that chanca piedra could 1988

,

it

was

a big deal. Dr.

Blumberg was the winner

HBV

first

discovering the

antigen in the

HBV was the primary HBV vaccines.

of the 1963

Nobel Prize

for

place. This led to the discovery that

development of cause of liver cancer and initiated the

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

235

Most

of Blumberg's early research

was

carried out in India in collaboration

with an Indian research group. Their

first

human study

extract of Phi/llanthus amariis cleared the

of thirty-seven chronic test

reported that a water

HBV surface antigen from twenty-two

HBV patients in only thirty days (and

they continued to

negative for nine months, at which time the report was published).*^^

same group had published several earlier in vitro studies as well as animal (woodchuck) studies. (Woodchucks respond to chronic HBV infection in much the same manner as do humans, which is why they are chosen for such research.) All reported similar

and

anti-HBV

effective

effects ."^^'"^2

5y

\;[Yne,

Blumberg was employed with the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia; he. Fox Chase, and the Indian researchers filed two patents on the plant's ability to treat

HBV

and

P. niruri).^^’^^

its

The

antiviral properties in 1985 first

patent

plant's antiviral properties

was

specific to

were achieved

HBV;

in part

reverse transcriptase (chemicals necessary for

which made

and 1988 (now

the second stated that the

through a strong inhibition of

many

types of viruses to grow)

possible to treat such retroviruses as

it

calling the plant

HIV and sarcoma and

leukemia viruses. It

was

also during this time that the

group developed

a

new and

"better"

extraction process. This process involved multiple, complicated extractions in

which the plant was extracted

first

soaked

then the resulting fluid was

in cold water,

hexane, then in benzene, then in methanol, and back into

first in

The group's documentation revealed, however, that they didn't know specifically what the active chemicals were in the final extract that provided the antiviral effects! While it was certainly a complicated and patentable process, water.

much

of the subsequent published research

by

this

group throughout the 1990s

using this new, patented "water extract" conflicted with their earlier studies,

and was not as

HBV. This caused much or P. aniariis) was an effectiv^e

effective in the in vivo research for

confusion as to whether chanca piedra

(P.

niruri

treatment or not. To add to the confusion, in 1994, a

group prepared

New

Zealand research

which was standardized to the geraniin chemical content (the chemical documented with analgesic and hypotensive properties). They started a double-blind HBV human trial, later discontinued it due to lack of response, and published another nega chemically altered extract (of

P. aniariis)

ative result study.

group in China (where HBV is widespread) working with a straight water extract and/or herb powder published two positive studies showing good results with human HBV patients in 1994 and 1995.“*'’'“^^ Their second study suggested that different results were obtained through different Phyllanthiis species of plants used (and that yet another species P. urinaria provided the best anti-HBV results). The Chinese published Meanwhile,

—

a separate research

The Healing Power of

236

a

study in 2001 that compared thirty chronic

HBV

Rainforest Herbs

patients taking a chanca

interferon (the leading convenpiedra extract to twenty-five patients taking Both treatments showed an equal tional drug used for HBV) for three months. group rated significantly higheffectiveness of 83 percent, but the chanca piedra and recovery of liver function than the er in the normalization of liver enzymes 2003 another study group.''^ The researchers published yet

m

interferon-treated

which attributed the anti-HVB

effects

piedrai niranthin, nirtetralin, hinokinin, Finally,

viewed

all

mainly

and

to four

chemicals in chanca

geraniin.

Copenhagen reThe Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Research Group in randomized trials) and the HBV published research (twenty-two

published an independent review of the

results.

It

stated that treatment with

acknowledged the confusion among the various clearance of serum HBsAg" (HBV surspecies used) had "a positive effect on and was better than nonspecific treatface antigen) comparable to interferon enzyme normalization. ment or other herbal medicines for HBV and liver due to these documented They also indicated that large trials were warranted methods and plant and the lack of standardization of research "Phyllnuthiis herb" (they

positive effects

In

addition to hepatitis,

chanca piedra also has

been studied

as an

antiviral agent for HIV.

studies to date. species used in the various published group reported that a simFocusing on HIV specifically, a Japanese research HIV-1 reverse transcriptase in 1992.^ ple water extract of P. niruri inhibited against HIV are classified as 'Teverse (Several conventional drugs used today chaneffect to a plant chemical transcriptase inhibitors.") They attributed this When they tested this chemical individuca piedra called repamiiisinic acid A.

m

ally

it

demonstrated significant

percent

in vitro

toxicity to

HIV-1

at

very small dosages

Squibb inhibition using only 2.5 meg). Bristol-Myers

(a

90

Pharma-

m

chanca piedra with chemical ceutical Research Institute isolated yet another named niruriside and described anti-HIV actions a novel compound that they

—

in a 1996 study.^^

research organization published their first study application with HIV therapy (reporting a 70-75 per-

A German

on chanca piedra and

its

to these antiviral properties, the cent inhibition of virus) in 2003.52 jj, addition other antimicrobial effects. Chanca plant has also been documented as having against Staphylococcus, Micropiedra demonstrated in vitro antibacterial actions in vitro antimalarial and Pasteurclla bacteria53'54 as well as in vivo and

coccus,

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

properties,55'56

which validates other

Chanca piedra

is

is

deserving of

a perfect

traditional uses.

which of a highly beneficial medicinal plant typical research but one which is fraught with the

example

much more

—

rich plant. Unless a major problems of working with a complicated, chemically company can isolate a single, (and well-funded) pharmaceutical or research patentable extraction process that patentable chemical (or can come up with a the high cost of as a simple water extract) to justify

actually

works as well

Medicinal Plants of the

Amazon

237

research, chanca piedra probably will remain in the '"unproven herbal

remedy"

enough non-profit dollars or government grant funds fund research on natural plant extracts that can't be patented. Since

category. There just aren't

available to

many

and benefits are attributed to many different chemicals (whose synergistic interactions are unclear), and most seem to be completely water soluble (no complicated and patentable manufacturing chanca piedra's

biological activities

processes necessary), for-profit research dollars will probably be spent else-

where.

yet another perfect

It is

ter chemist; the natural

example

that

Mother Nature

is

infinitely a bet-

herb continues to work better than any

man-made

chemically altered (and patentable) extracts.

But what a natural remedy

it is!

With

its

applications for kidney stones and

and liver protection, hypertension and high cholesterol, cancer prevention, and its pain-relieving and antiviral effects, it is gaining in popularity on many continents as an effective herbal remedy. It is also important gallstones, cellular

to note that in all the research

toxicity or side effects

even

ies,

Traditional

Preparation

have been reported

in

last

twenty years, no signs of

any of the human or animal stud-

in acute or chronic use.

A standard edy.

published over the

herb infusion or weak decoction

Depending on what

it's

employed

and health maintenance dosages ers to be 1-3

cups weekly, while

Some pharmacies

for

for,

is

prepared as the traditional rem-

1-3 cups are taken daily. Prevention

kidney stones are reported by practition-

3^ cups daily are used to expel existing stones.

and South America sell concentrated fluid extracts or water/glycerine extracts. Depending on the concentration of the extracts, 2-6 ml are taken two to three times daily. Since most of the active chemicals are in Brazil

water soluble (and broken

down

during digestion), 2-3 g in tablets or capsules twice daily can be substituted, if desired. Alcohol tinctures have not been tra-

more fragile, water-soluble plant be damaged in alcohol).

ditionally used with chanca piedra (as the

chemicals and sterols are thought to 0

Contraindications

Chanca piedra has demonstrated hypotensive effects in animals and humans. People with a heart condition and/or taking prescription heart medications should consult their doctor before taking for

may be contraindicated may need monitoring and

this plant.

such individuals and their heart medications

It

adjusting.

Chanca piedra has been considered

in herbal

medicine

to

be abortive

(at

high dosages) as well as a menstrual promoter. While not studied specifically in humans or animals, animal studies do indicate it has uterine relaxant effects. It

should therefore be considered contraindicated during pregnancy. Chanca piedra has been documented with female anti-fertility effects

mouse study

(the effect

was reversed

forty-five

days

in

one

after cessation of dosing).'’^

The Healing Power of

238

Rainforest Herbs

of the plant is has not been documented in humans, the use or taking fertility drugs. probably contraindicated in women seeking pregnancy used as a contraceptive, This effect has not been substantiated sufficiently to be

While

this effect

however, and should not be relied on for such. animals and Chanca piedra has demonstrated hypoglycemic effects in Diabetics should humans. It is contraindicated for people with hypoglycemia. insulin medications may need their doctor before taking this plant, as consult

monitoring and adjusting. Chanca piedra has been documented, in

human and animal studies, with this plant may be contraindicated in

and acute use of not advised. Chronic longvarious other medical conditions where diuretics are imbalances; howevterm use of any diuretic can cause electrolyte and mineral chronic use) human studies with chanca piedra (for up to three months of

diuretic effects. Chronic

er,

Consult your doctor concerning possible to use this plant chronicalside effects of long-term diuretic use if you choose ly for longer than three months.

have not reported any side

Drug

Interactions

effects.

Chanca piedra may potentiate tains a naturally-occurring

insulin

and

antidiabetic drugs.This plant con-

phytochemical called geraniin. This chemical has

inotropic, hypotensive, been documented with negative chronotropic, negative studies with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor effects in animal

and

frogs, mice,

and

rats.^^

As

such, this plant

may

potentiate antihypertensive

(including chronotropdrugs. Beta-blocker drugs, and other heart medications ic

and inotropic drugs).

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Amazonia

for

bowel inflammation,

edema,

kidney aliments, kidney stones, malaria, pain, disorders, vaginitis, worms, and to stomachache, tumor, urinary insufficiency, urinary tract

fever, flu, gallstones, proctitis’,

dysentery, dyspepsia, colic, constipation, diabetes, digestion stimulation,

gonorrhea,

intestinal gas, itch, jaundice,

stimulate menstruation

Bahamas/

fever, for bacterial infections, colds, constipation,

Caribbean

stomachache, liver

Brazil

flu,

hyperglycemia, spasms,

j c appetite stimulant, laxative, liver detoxifier, typhoid, urinary insufficiency, viral infections; as an .

protector, liver tonic

bacterial infections, bile stimulant, biliary conditions, for abortions, aches (joint), albuminuria, arthritis, cancer, catarrh (liver and kidney), cystitis, diabetes, bladder problems, bladder stones, blood cleanser, problems, stimulation, gallstones, gastritis, gastrointestinal digestion stimulation, edema, fever, gallbladder stones, inflammation, jaundice, kidney colic, kidney pain, kidney gout, hepatitis, hypertension, hypoglycemic, tonic, uric prostatitis, renal colic, renal problems, spasms, liver’disorders. liver support, malaria, obesity, pain, uterine relaxant, viral infections; and as a muse e acid excess, urinary insufficiency, urinary problems,

relaxant and to

promote perspiration

Medicinal Plants of the

Haiti

Amazon

239

for bowel inflammation, colic, digestion stimulation, digestive problems, fever, malaria, spasms,

India

flu,

indigestion, intestinal gas,

stomachache, urinary insufficiency

for anemia, asthma, bronchitis, conjunctivitis, cough, diabetes, diarrhea, digestion stimulation, dysentery, fevers,

edema, eye disorders, genitourinary disorders, gonorrhea,

menstrual disorders, ringworm, scabies,

thirst, tuberculosis,

hepatitis, jaundice, lack of milk production,

tumor (abdomen), urinary

insufficiency,

urogenital tract infections, vaginal discharge, warts

Malaysia

for caterpillar stings, constipation, dermatosis, diarrhea, itch, miscarriage, renal disorders, syphilis, urinary insufficiency, vertigo,

Peru

and to stimulate menstruation

for gallstones, hepatitis, kidney pain, kidney problems, kidney stones, urinary infections,

worms, and to

stimulate menstruation

United

for bile insufficiency, bronchitis, diabetes, fever, gallbladder problems, gallstones, gout, hepatitis,

States

hypertension, kidney problems, kidney stones,

liver disease,

obstructions, pain, uric acid excess, urinary

tract infections, viral infections

Elsewhere

for bile insufficiency, bruises, constipation, cough, cuts, diabetes, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia,

edema, eye

diseases, fever, gallstones, gonorrhea, itch, jaundice, kidney disease, kidney stones, malaria, menstrual

problems, pain,

rectitis,

sexually transmitted diseases, stomachache, tuberculosis, urinary insufficiency,

urinary tract infections, vaginitis

CHUCHUHUASI HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Other Actions

Main Actions

cancer

•

reduces inflammation

•

kills

•

relieves pain

•

prevents tumors

•

relaxes muscles

•

stimulates digestion

•

enhances immunity

•

increases libido

•

supports adrenals

cells

Standard Dosage Bark

Decoction:

I

cup two to

three times daily Tincture: 3-5 ml

two

to

three times daily Family: Celastraceae

Genus; Maytenus Species; krukovii

Common

Names:

chuchuhuasi, chucchu

huashu, chuchuasi,

chuchasha, chuchuhuasha,

chuchuaso, chuchumuasi, curi-caspi

Part Used: bark

Chuchuhuasi to 30 ly

m high.

Amazon

is

an enormous canopy

It

has large leaves (10-30 cm), small white flowers, and extreme-

tree of the

rainforest that growls

tough, heavy, reddish-brown bark. Several botanical names have been given

to this species of tree.

It is

referenced as Maytenus krukovii,

M.

M. lacsame tree.

ebenifolia,

and M. macrocarpa; however, all botanical names refer to the Chuchuhausi is indigenous to the tropical rainforests of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. vis,

The Healing Power of

240

TRIBAL

AND HERBAL MEDICINE USES

Indigenous people of the chuchuhuasi medicinally

Amazon

rainforest

for centuries. Its

Rainforest Herbs

have been using the bark of

Peruvian name, chuchuhuasi, means

use for arthritis, rheuma"trembling back," which refers to its long-standing for arthritis and rheumatism calls tism, and back pain. One local Indian remedy a week. decoction taken three times a day for more than for

cup

1

of a bark

Local people and villagers along the

Amazon

believe that chuchuhuasi

is

an

local sugarcane rum (aguaraphrodisiac and tonic, and the bark soaked in the served in bars and to tourists (often diente) is a popular jungle drink that is even

and muscle aches and to keep going during in the Amazon use the rainforest). Local healers and curanderos combined with general tonic, to speed healing and, when

called "go-juice" to relieve pain

Chuchuhuasi has long

been used

remedy

as a jungle

for arthritis, back

pain and muscle spasms, as a healthy tonic to tone,

balance and normalize the body, and as an aphrodisiac.

long treks in

chuchuhuasi as a

types of illnesses. In Colombia, other medicinal plants, as a synergist for many bark (5 cm) in 2 liters of water until the Siona Indians boil a small piece of the Ecuadorian arthritis and rheumatism. In the 1 liter remains, and drink it for a bark decoction for general rainforest, the Quijos Quichua Indians prepare menstrual pain, and stomachaches. aches and pains, rheumatism, sore muscles, for still considered the best remedy In the Peruvian Amazon, chuchuhuasi is It is also used as a muscle relaxarthritis among both city and forest dwellers. adrenal support, as an immune stimuant, aphrodisiac, and pain-reliever, for medicine balance and regulation. In Peruvian herbal lant,

and

for

menstrual

treat osteoarthritis, rheumasystems, chuchuhuasi alchohol extracts are used to

toid arthritis, bronchitis, diarrhea, hemorrhoids,

and

PLANT CHEMICALS

and menstrual

irregularities

pain.

chemicals— mostly triterpenes, favonols, chemicals in and sesquiterpene alkaloids. Two of the more well-known documented (since the chuchuhuasi are mayteine and maytansine alkaloids long

Chuchuhausi

is

a

powerhouse

of plant

—

Maytemis plants as chuchuhuasi, they don t occur in high well. While these chemicals are found in rainforamounts to really be therapeutic for cancer, however. Another 1960s) with anti-tumor activity

and which occur

in other

enough est

Maytemis plant, espinheira santa

(also featured in this book), is a

much

bet-

novel compounds found only source of these anticancerous chemicals. Other and friedelane-type triterpenes, in chuchuhuasi thus far include ciammaraneconstituents. which are considered to be some of the plant s active agarofuran sesThe main plant chemicals found in chuchuhuasi include; ter

dammarane triterpenes, dulcitol, c[uiterpenes, canophyllol, catechin tannins, friedelan triterpenes, krukovine ebenifoline alkaloids, euojaponine alkaloids, macrocarpin triterpenes, maytansine, mayteine, proanthocyanidms, and maytenin, mebeverine, phenoldienones, pristimeran,

triterpenes, laevisine alkaloids,

tingenone (and

its

derivatives).

Medicinal Plants of the

BIOLOGICAL

Amazon

241

ACTIVITIES

Chuchuhuasi's long history of use has fueled much clinical interest in the research community. In the 1960s, an American pharmaceutical company dis-

AND CLINICAL

covered potent immune-stimulating properties of a leaf extract and a bark

RESEARCH

documenting

extract,

to attack bacteria

that

it

increased phagocytosis (the ability of

and foreign

immune cells

Researchers in 1977 reported that

cells) in mice.*^

alcohol extracts of the bark evidenced anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities in

various studies with mice, which validated chuchuhuasi's traditional

uses for arthritic pain.^

Its

anti-inflammatory action again was reported in the

1980s by an Italian research group. They reported that this activity to radiation protectant to triterpenes

and to report chuchuhuasi

is

why

effective

for arthritis.

and antioxidant chemicals

In 1993, a Japanese research

Scientists are just

beginning to understand

and anti-tumor properties) was

in

chuchuhuasi that

tis

and rheumatism.^

may

(in

addition

at least partially linked

isolated in the trunk bark.^

group isolated another group of novel alkaloids

be responsible for

its

effectiveness in treating arthri-

United States, a pharmaceutical company studying

In the

chuchuhuasi's anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties determined that these alkaloids can effectively inhibit

enzyme production

of protein kinase

C

PKC inhibitors have attracted much interest worldwide, as there is evithat too much PKC enzyme is involved in a wide variety of disease

(PKC).®

dence

processes (including arthritis, asthma, brain tumors, cancer, and cardiovascular disease).^

A Spanish research team found more new phytochemicals in 1998,

one of which was

enzyme

is

having activity against aldose reductase.^® (This

cited as

damage

implicated in nerve

in diabetic patients.)

In the mid-1970s, Italian researchers tested a

skin cancers and identified

its

chuchuhuasi extract against

antitumorous properties.*^ They attributed these

two chemicals in chuchuhuasi called tingenonc and pristimeriu. Three groups found new and different sesquiterpene compounds in 1999, two of which showed marginal anti-tumor activity against four cell lines, and one of which was documented as effective against leishmaniasis (a tropical parasitic Other researchers found four more chemicals in the roots of disease). chuchuhuasi (named macrocarpins) in 2000 three of which were documented effects to

—

as cytotoxic to four

CURRENT PRACTICAL USES

If

tumor

cell lines.

the constituents in chuchuhuasi responsible for inhibiting

thesized,

it

is

possible that a

new

arthritis

time, the natural bark of this important

drug

will

Amazon

PKC

be developed.

can be synIn the

mean-

rainforest tree will continue to

be an effective natural herbal remedy for arthritis, for adrenal support, and as an immune tonic as it has been for centuries. It is best prepared as it has been

—

traditionally: as

an alcohol tincture or

a decoction.

It

normally takes about three

to get a beneficial effect for arthritic pain,

to four

days of daily use

month

or longer of daily use

is

necessary for adrenal support.

and up

to a

p

The Healing Power of

242

Traditional

Preparation

Traditionally, 2-3

dard tincture three times daily

Contraindications

None

reported.

Drug

None

reported.

Interactions

cups daily of

a is

Rainforest Herbs

standard bark decoction or 2-4 ml of a stan used for this rainforest remedy.

Worldwide Ethnomedical Uses Region

Uses

Brazil

for skin cancer

Colombia

as an aphrodisiac, pain-reliever,

Ecuador

pain, rheumatism, stomachache, for aches (menstrual, muscles), arthritis, fever,

and for

rheumatism

arthritis,

tumors

(skin),

and as an

aphrodisiac

Peru

disease, cancer, diarrhea, dysentery, gastrointestinal for aches (back, muscles), arthritis, bronchitis, osteoarthritis, pain, inflammation, influenza, menstrual disorders, nausea,

hemorrhoids, impotency, rheumatism, tumors,

virility,

and as an aphrodisiac

CIPO CABELUDO HERBAL PROPERTIES AND ACTIONS Standard Dosage

Other Actions

Main Actions •

relieves pain

*

kills

leukemia

•

reduces mucus

*

l. Inst.

Antibiot., 1971 Jun. 8.

Monache,

F.

D., et

al.,

"Maitenin;

A new

Gazetta Chimica Italiana 1972; 102; 317-320.

Wolpert-Defillipes,

M.

K., et al., "Initial

studies on the cytotoxic action of maytansine, a

novel ansa macrolide." Biochemical

Pharmacology 24 (1975); 751-754. 10.

Chabner,

13.

observations

et al. "First

1974 Dec.

"Oligo-nicotinated

et al.

26.

Itokawa, H., et

et al.

].,

in patients

"Phase

"Cangorins

al.

F-J, five

additional oligo-nicotinated sesquiterpene polyesters from Maytenus

27.

Souza-Formigoni, M.

ilicifolia." }.

Nat.

II trial

with advanced

of

col-

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"Antiul-

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August

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Nat. Prod. 1993; 56(9); 1479-

Prod. 1994; 57(4): 460-470.

B. A., et al., "Initial clinical tri-

O'Connell, M.

14.

Cabanillas, F, et

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"Phase

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—A

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