Achiote, Annato: (Bixa orellana – Bixaceae):
– Measles (ground seeds applied to bath)
– Buccal sores (seeds steeped in water, as rinse)
– Condiment and food colouring
Aguacate: (Avocado, Persea americana):
– Intestinal worms (grate 8 to 10 grams of fresh avocado-pit rind into a glass of water, and the next day sweeten it, drink, and eat nothing)
Ahuehuete, Sabino: (Taxodium mucronatum – Taxodiaceae):
– Burns (bark decoction, poultice)
– Diarrhea (leaf infusion, as tea)
Ailé, Birch: (Alnus arguta – Betulaceae):
– Fever
– Inflammation
– As a poultice to wash wounds
Anil indigo: (Indigofera suffruticosa):
– Children’s headache (boil leaves until soft, then apply the leaves like a bandage to the forehead)
– Parasites and worms (tincture of root and seeds)
– Diarrhea (plant juice)
Alamo: (Platanus lindeliana – Platanaceae):
– Colds (ground leaves with oil applied topically as poultice)
– Fractures (poultice)
– Headache (poultice)
– Painkiller (Infusion or decoction of bark, used internally or externally)
– Its decoction or infusion is astringent, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, styptic and haemostatic
Altea: (plantain, Plantago spp.):
– Cuts, wounds and insect bites (apply juice of leaves or crushed leaves)
– Boils (apply to boil to allow to mature)
– Dysentery (infusion of the leaves)
Anís: (Tagetes lucida Cav. – Asteraeceae):
– Carminative, digestive
– Inflammatory, fever
– Stomach upset (infusion of fresh herb)
– Avoid during pregnancy
– Unrelated to European or Star Anise
Añíl, Indigo: (Indigofera suffruticosa – Fabaceae):
– Urinary problems
– Constipation
– Mange
– Syphilis
– The fresh leaves are used in a warm bath to act as a calmative
– An infusion of bruised leaves is used as a treatment for fever
Anona: (Anona reticulata – Anonaceae):
– Boils (leaf infusion as a wash)
– Diarrhea (bark decoction as tea)
Árnica del país, Falsa árnica, Golden aster: (Heterotheca inuloides – Asteraceae):
– Bruises, contusions (topically – boil the flower heads into a mass, and apply)
– Tea as gargles for sore throat
– Potentially toxic, avoid internal use
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Not to be confused with European arnica, with which it shares some of its applications
Azafrán, Zacatlaxcale: (Cuscuta spp . – Convolvulaceae):
– Parasitic plant
– Purgative internally
– Fright (“susto”) (plant decoction, as bath)
Baja tripa: (Rivina humilis – Phytolaccaceae):
– “Aire” (Wind)
– “Espanto” (Fright)
– Rash (prickly heat)
– Branch decoction applied externally as body wash
Baiborín: (Kallstroema grandiflora – zygophyllaceae):
– Fatigue
– Fever
– Body pains
– Mange
Barbasco , Cabeza de negro: (Dioscorea spp . – Dioscoreaceae):
– Body aches
– Menstrual problems
– Progesterone source
– Rheumatism, aches (rhizome steeped in alcohol, as a rub)
– Male contraceptive
Barquilla: (Rhoeo discolor – Commelinaceae):
– Fungal infections: roasted leaves, topical
– Vaginal infections: leaf infusion douche
– Measles (leaf infusion, orally)
Batamote: (Baccharis glutinosa – Asteraceae):
– Alopecia
– Stomach ache
– Mange
– Foot odour
Bayetill: (Hamelia patens – Rubiaceae):
– Anti-inflammatory
– Boils (stem decoction, externally)
– Pain relief (topical)
– Yellow fever (leaf infusion as tea)
Berro: (Nasturtium acuaticum – Brassicaceae):
– Goiter (iodide )
– Kidney pain
– Stomach inflammation (raw)
– Tuberculosis (infusion)
Borraja, Borage: (Borago officinalis):
– Bronchitis and fevers (boil 10 grams of flowers and young leaves in a litre of water, and drink the tea)
Bretónica: (Lepechinia caulescens – Lamiaceae):
– Diarrhea
– Dysentery (stem decoction)
– Gastritis (topical)
Cabezona, Chapúz: (Helenium mexicanum – Asteraceae):
– Colds (pulverized flowerheads as stornutatories; to promote sneezing)
– Toxic if ingested
– Avoid use
Cacaloxóchitl: (Plumeria rubra – Apocynaceae):
External application:
– Gonorrhea
– Warts
– Wounds (minor, the juice is used to heal wounds)
– Drastic purgative
– Avoid internally
Cahuayote: (Gonolobus niger – Asclepiadaceae):
– Gonorrhea (root decoction)
– Efficacy unknown
– Avoid during pregnancy and lactation
Calaguala: (Phlebodium aureum – Polypodiaceae):
– Tea made from stem
– Diarrhea
– Gastric ulcers
– Kidney pain
– Efficacy unknown
– Avoid in pregnancy
Calderona: (Galphimia glauca – Malpighiaceae):
– Boils (external application)
– Vaginal infections
– Wounds
– Avoid in pregnancy
Candelilla: (Euphorbia antisyphillitica – Euphorbiaceae):
– Used against venereal disease (syphilis)
– Cathartic ( purgative)
– Toothache
– Headache
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Capulín: (Prunus serotina – Rosaceae):
– Coughs (children)
– Decoction of stems and leaves taken as infusion (tea)
Cedro: (Cedrela odorata – Meliaceae):
– Colic
– Epilepsy (bark decoction as tea)
– Fever
– Gall bladder
– Toothache (leaf tea)
Cedron, Lemon verbena: (Aloysia triphylla):
– Menstruation
– Worm
– Tea from the boiled leaves, taken while fasting, regularises the menstrual flow, and expels worms. 1oz herb to 1 pint boiling water infused is taken in spoonfuls.
Ceiba: (Ceiba pentandra – Bombacaceae):
– Anti-inflammatory
– Boils
– Insect bites
– Mange
– Bark and leaf decoctions as poultices
Chabacal: (Salvia lavanduloides – Lamiaceae):
– Bronchitis
– Colds
– Coughs
– Avoid in pregnancy
Chaca: (Bursera simaruba – Burseraceae):
– Fever (leaf infusion)
– Leaves boiled in water to make a bath
– Leaves applied on soles of feet
Chalahuite: (Inga jinicuil – Fabaceae):
– Dysentery (bark decoction)
– Stomach upset (“empacho”) bark decoction
– Flower infusion taken for tachycardia (“latido”)
Chaparro amargoso: (Castela tortuosa – Simaroubiaceae):
– Amoebic dysentery (drink tea made of the shrub, before each meal, for minimum 3 days)
– Shrublands in northern México
– A tonic and antiperiodic
– Avoid during pregnancy/ lactation
Chapuliztle: (Dodonaea viscosa – Sapindaceae):
– Colic (leaf infusion)
– Fever (bark decoction)
– Gout ( leaf infusion)
– Ground leaves applied to scabs and wounds
– Scalp problems
– Venereal disease
Chaya: (Cnidoscolus chayamansa – Euphorbiaceae):
– Boils (latex topically)
– Diabetes
– Kidney pain
– Obesity (capsules)
Chicalote: (Argemone mexicana, A. sanguinea – Papaveraceae):
– Hypnotic
– Post-part. bleeding
– Toothache
– Alopecia (hair loss)
– Kidney pain
– Scabies and ringworm (crushing flowers prepared plaster)
– Cough, whooping cough and asthma (the flowers are taken in tea)
– Eyes (external applications to treat conditions of the eyes, especially cataracts)
– Seeds are toxic
Chicalote: (Prickly poppy, Argemone ochroleuca):
– Stomach pain (mash 4 grams of seeds in 200 cc of water, take two or three times a day)
Chico Zapote: (Achras zapota – Zapotaceae):
– Digestive problems, in particular dysentery and diarrhea (tea from the bark, infusion prepared with the fruit of the zapote together with Jatropha gaumeri)
– Bile, hair loss diuretic (grounded seeds)
– Ingestion of more than 10 seeds can be toxic
Chicura: (Franseria ambrosioides – Asteraceae):
– Promotes labour
– Given near parturition
– External application to treat scorpion stings
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Chigüisa: (Pseudobombax ellipticum – Bombacaceae):
– Asthma
– Colds
– Coughs flower (infusion taken as tea)
Chipilín: (Crotalaria incana – Fabaceae):
– Urinary bladder “coldness”
– May contain cyanogenic glycosides
– May contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids
– Avoid in pregnancy
Cholla, Cardenche, Coyonoxtle: (Opuntia imbricata – Cactaceae):
– Asthma (tea taken to treat asthma)
– Diarrhea (tea used against diarrhea – plant contains tannins)
Chote, Turi: (Parmentiera edulis – Bignoniaceae):
– Diabetes (root decoction as tea)
– Earache
– Urinary problems (fruit and branch infusion)
– Respiratory ailments (flower, fruit and root infusion)
Codo de fraile, Yóyotl, Oleander: (Thevetia thevetioides – Apocynaceae):
– Boils and hemorrhoids (topically)
– “Weight loss”(seed)
– Alkaloids (thevetine)
– Very toxic, avoid all internal use
– For hemorrhoids, mash seeds, mix in fat, and apply
Cojón de toro: (Stemmadenia donnell-smithi – Apocynaceae):
– Bruises, wounds (leaf decoction externally as poultice)
– Mosquito bites (latex applied topically)
– Avoid internally
Cola de caballo, Horsetail: (Equisetum arvense – Equisetaceae):
– Arthritis and rheumatism
– Diuretic
– Urinary problems
– Only the sterile branches are used
– Some species are thiaminase inhibitors
– Brewed teas of the stems are diuretic, and have been used against dysentery and gonorrhea
Cola de venado: (Erigeron karwinskianus – Asteraceae):
– Dysentery
– Kidney pain (stem decoction)
– Sores (wash)
Contrayerba: (Dorstenia contrajerba – Moraceae):
– Snakebite
– Vaginal hemorrhage
– Venereal disease (root decoction as tea)
Cordón de San Antonio: (Hyptis stellulata – Lamiaceae):
– Earache
– Indigestion
– “Pasmo”
– Rheumatism
– Skin infections
– Avoid in pregnancy
Cordon de San Francisco: (Salvia leucantha – Lamiaceae):
– Fright (espanto)
– To reconstitute women after birth (leaf infusion)
– Avoid in pregnancy
Cosáhui, Mamelique, Crameria: (Krameria grayi – Krameriaceae):
– Diarrhea
– Skin antiseptic
– Diabetes
– Alopecia
– Loose teeth
Clavellina, Ceiba: (Bombax palmeri):
– Skin wounds (roast and grind the bark, and apply)
Cuachalalate o Axocopaque: (Amphypteringium adstringens – Julianaceae):
– Circulatory ailments, mixed with sarsparilla
– Gastritis, peptic ulcers
– Vaginal infections (topical)
– Bark decoction or maceration
Cuatecomate, Guaje: (Crescentia cujete – Bignoniaceae):
– Alopecia (leaf infusion)
– Diarrhea (leaf infusion)
– Expectorant
– Liver (fruit pulp) ailments (fruit pulp)
Cucharitas: (Acacia cochliacantha – Fabaceae):
– Diarrhea
– Stomachache
– Urinary/bladder
Cuitlacoche: (Ustilago maydis):
– This a fungus, not a green plant
– Parasite of corncobs
– Eaten as a delicacy
– May contain alkaloids that stimulate the uterus
– Avoid in pregnancy
Culantrillo de pozo, Palmita, Maidenhair fern: (Adiantum capillus-veneris – Pteridaceae):
– Leaf infusion as a tea
– Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation)
– Fright (susto)
– Kidney stones
– May cause abortion
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
– As a blood thinner, for constipation, liver problems, and kidney stones, boil about 5 grams in half a liter of water and take a small cup every day
Cundeamor: (Momordica charantia – Cucurbitaceae):
– Diabetes (fruit and leaves
– Anthelminthic
– Fever, Colic and headache
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Damiana, Turnera: (Turnera diffusa – Turneraceae):
– Tea taken to “increase libido”, treat sterility, as a tonic for fatigue
– For colds and body aches
– May have antidepressant action
– Nervousness and weakness (take a tea made by boiling the macerated leaves)
– Avoid in pregnancy
Diente de león, Dandelion: (Taraxacum officinale – Asteraceae):
– Tea made from plant is used to treat gall bladder and liver ailments, anorexia
– Digestive, diuretic
– Externally, latex removes warts (irritating)
Doradilla, Resurrection plant: (Selaginella lepidophylla – Selaginellaceae):
– Diuretic
– Gall bladder stones
– Kidney pain
– Urinary problems
– Combined with horsetail (Equisetum)
– An infusion has salutary effects on the kidneys and liver, and breaks up gallstones.
Encino, Oak: (Quercus spp. – Fagaceae):
– Astringent (tannins)
– Bleeding gums
– Loose teeth
– Skin antiseptic
– Toothache
– Bark decoction
– Diarrhea (drink tea made from boiling the tree’s bark)
Epazote, Wormseed: (Chenopodium ambrosioides – Chenopodiaceae):
– Tea is taken to treat stomach ailments and expel worms
– Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and children
– Leaves are safe as condiment, but oil is neurotoxic
Epazote de zorrillo: (C. graveolens – Chenopodiaceae):
– Anthelminthic
– “Aire” (flatulence)
– Coughs (expectorant)
– “Fright” (espanto)
– Stomach and liver ailments
– Potentially toxic, avoid use
Espinosilla: (Loeselia mexicana – Polemoniaceae):
External application for:
– Alopecia
– Dandruff
– Erysipelas
– Aerial parts as infusion (tea)
Estafiate: (Artemisia mexicana – Asteraceae):
– Tea made from leaves and stems is used to treat stomachache, diarrhea, worms and rheumatism
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
– Avoid in patients with nervous disorders
Estropajo, Luffa: (Luffa aegyptica – Cucurbitaceae):
– Gerícua (leaf infusion as bath)
– Lice (mashed fruit in water, as hair rinse)
Flor de manita, Macpalxóchitl: (Chirantodendron pentadactylon – Sterculiaceae):
– Tea from flowers
– Anxiety, Nerves
– Cardiac ailments
Flor de tila, Linden: (Tila spp. – Tilaceae):
– Anxiety
– Insomnia
– Nervous disorders
– Flower infusion
Garañona: (Castilleja tenuiflora – Scrophulariaceae):
– Alopecia
– Blood purifier
– Gall bladder
– Vaginal infections
Girasol, Sunflower: (Helianthus annuus – Asteraceae):
– Headache
– Nervous disorders (anxiety)
– Scabs
Gobernadora, Guámis, Creosotebush, Chaparral: (Larrea tridentata – Zygophyllaceae):
– Athlete’s foot
– Cancer (antioxidant)
– Foot odour
– Fungal skin infection
– Kidney stones
– Urinary infections
– Venereal disease
– NDGA, active principle
– Free radical scavenger
– Antifungal compounds
– Non-concentrated infusion internally
– Concentrated forms not recommended
– Pills and capsules may cause hepatic and renal damage
– Avoid prolonged treatments
– Avoid in pregnancy, lactation and small children
– Topical applications may cause irritation
Gordolobo, Everlasting, Cudweed: (Gnaphalium spp. – Asteraceae):
– Similar properties as unrelated Mullein (Verbascum spp.)
– Respiratory problems, asthma, coughs
– Lumbago (externally)
– Avoid in pregnancy
– A handful of this weedy herb brewed in a pot of water is used for coughs and sore throats
Guaco: (Mikania spp . – Asteraceae):
– Stomach ulcers, liver problems
– Worms
– “Antidote” vs. snakebites (unproven, avoid)
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Guamúchil, Manila Tamarind: (Pithecellobium dulce – Fabaceae):
– Diarrhea ( for diarrhea, bloody and otherwise, boil bark from the root and drink)
– Upset stomach
– Coughs
– Buccal sores
Guanacastle: (Enterolobium cyclocarpum – Fabaceae):
– Red caterpillar sting (bark decoction applied directly to affected area)
Guayaba, Guava: (Psidium guava – Myrtaceae):
– Diarrhea (Tannins)
– Stomach upset
– Excellent source of Vitamin C
Guayacán, Palo Santo: (Guaiacum sanctum – Zygophyllaceae):
– Coughs (flowers as tea)
– Dysentery
– Diaphoretic
– Gastric ulcers
– Syphilis
– Tuberculosis
Guázuma: (Guazuma ulmifolia – Sterculiaceae):
– Diarrhea
– Fever
– Antiemetic
– The fruits contain mucilage
Guázuma: (Guazuma tomentosa – Sterculiaceae):
– Leprosy
– Elephantiasis
– Syphilis
– Skin infections
Helecho macho, Male fern: (Dryopteris filix-mas):
– Anthelminthic, obsolete in modern phytotherapy
– May cause abortion
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
– Avoid in children
Hierba de lavíbora: (Zorrica spp. – Asteraceae):
– Taken as tea to treat “Pasmo”
– Antidote vs. poisoning
– Anti-inflammatory (topical application)
Hierba del cáncer: (Cuphea aequipetala – Lythraceae):
– Antiseptic
– Boils, skin tumours
– Diarrhea (leaf infusion)
– Wounds
– Avoid in pregnancy
– Avoid in children
Hierba del carbonero: (Baccharis sarothroides – Asteraceae):
– Colds
– Muscular pain
Hierba del golpe: (Oenothera rosea – Onagraceae):
– Bruises
– Colic
– Skin (topically) (infusion) inflammation (poultice, topically)
Hierba del pollo (Matláli): (Commelina stans – Commelinaceae):
– Arthritis (topically)
– Colic
– To treat diarrhea, the leaves are blended with water, lime juice and honey
– Hemostatic; fresh crushed leaves applied directly to cut
Hierba del Zorrillo: (Petiveria alliacea – Phytolaccaceae):
– Fever
– Seizures
– Weakness
– Avoid in small children, pregnancy and lactation
Hierba de San Francisco: (Heimia salicifolia – Lithraceae):
– Bruises, inflammation (ground leaves applied topically as plaster)
– Cold bladder (branch decoction as bath)
Hierba Luisa: (Aloysia triphylla – Verbenaceae):
– Tea from leaves is taken to treat anxiety, diarrhea and stomach upset
– Leaves have citrus-like aroma
Hierba de la golondrina, Spurge: (Euphorbia spp):
– White latex from the plant is famed for curing “spots on the eye”
Higuerilla, Ricino, Castor oil, Palma christi: (Ricinus communis – Euphorbiaceae):
– Fever, headache
– Purgative
– Seeds very poisonous
– Lectins cause hemagglutination of red blood cells
– Avoid internal use
Hoja santa Tlanepaquelite, Momo: (Piper sanctum – Piperaceae):
– Tea from stems and leaves is used to treat “susto” or fright
Huinólo, Chiráhui: (Acacia cuchliacanta – Fabaceae):
– Colds
– Diarrhea
– Gastritis
– Typhoid fever
– Urinary problems
Huizache: (Acacia farnesiana – Fabaceae):
– Diabetes
– Diarrhea
– Dyspepsia (flowers)
– Fever
– Kidney pain
– Tuberculosis (root)
Hule: (Castilleja elastica – Moraceae):
– Dislocations
– Fractures
– Latex applied topically
– “Vilmas”(bandages)
Flor de Jamaica, Hibiscus, Roselle: (Hibiscus sabdariffa – Malvaceae):
– May lower cholesterol
– Diuretic
– Fever
– Laxative, digestive
Lágrimas de San Pedro, Job’s tears: (Coix lachryma-jobi – Poaceae):
– Tea from the leaves is used to treat diabetes
Llanten, Plantain: (Plantago spp.):
– Burns, bruises, and mouth sores (boil 100 grams of leaves in 500 ml of water, and wash the affected area)
Madroño: (Arbutus xalapensis – Ericaceae):
– Kidney
– Leaf pain decoction
– Ingested
– Avoid as tea in pregnancy
Magnolia: (Magnolia grandiflora – Magnoliaceae):
– Cardiac problems
– Nerves
– Seizures
– Avoid in pregnancy
– A tea from the bark serves as a general tonic, but too much causes the heart to beat irregularly
Maguey, Century plant: (Agave spp. – Agavaceae):
– The leaf juice is taken internally to treat constipation and other digestive ailments
– Aguamiel (sugar extract from root) used against gonorrhea
– For bruises and pains resulting from hard blows to the body, squeeze juice from a roasted leaf, boil it down, sweeten, and drink
Mangle Rojo: (Rhizophora mangle – Rhizphoraceae):
– Diabetes
– Dysentery
– Kidney pain (bark decoction as tea)
Mango: (Mangifera indica – Anacardiaceae):
– Originally from Asia
– Mouth infections (seed decoction as mouthwash)
– Stomachache (bark decoction as tea)
Mata ratón, Cocoíte: (Gliricidia sepium – Fabaceae):
– Fever
– Stomach upset
– Leaves are used as rodent poison
– Wound (sap of bark, leaves and roots)
– Avoid internally
– Insecticidal, Antifungal, Antiviral – The juice from leaves is applied to daily for one week to areas affected by external parasites
Mata ratón, Cocoíte: (Gliricidia sepium – Fabaceae):
– Fever
– Stomach
– Leaves upset are used as rodent poison
– Avoid internally
Mezquite: (Prosopis juliflora – Fabaceae):
– Boils (leaves)
– Conjunctivitis (leaves)
– Stomach upset
Muicle: (Justicia spicigera – Acanthaceae):
– Tea from aerial parts taken to treat constipation
– Mange (branch decoction applied topically)
– Rash
– Dysentery (use tea from the leaves to combats)
Nanche, Golden spoon: (Byrsonima crassifolia – Malpighiaceae):
– Astringent action used to treat diarrhea
– Fungal infections of the gums
– Loose teeth
– Digestion and appetite (to improve, cook the bark and drink the tea)
Naranjo agrio, Sour orange): Citrus aurantium):
– General tonic, calming agent, for heart palpitations, and epilepsy (tea from the leaves is used)
Nogal, Walnut: (Juglans regia):
– Wash skin sores and cure thrush in infants with a tea made from boiled leaves
Nopal, Prickly pear cactus: (Opuntia spp. Cactaceae):
– Stems eaten raw or cooked to treat diabetes
– Stems contain mucilage and fiber
– Pulverized cactus capsules taken to lower cholesterol
– Digestive
– Obesity (fibre)
Nopal duraznillo: (Opuntia leucotricha – Cactaceae):
– Stem eaten to treat diabetes
– Diarrhea
– Urinary problems
Ocote colorado: (Pinus patula – Pinaceae):
– Sore throat (hoarseness)
– Branch decoction taken as tea
– Colds
Ortiga, Jatropa: (Jatropha spp.):
– Several different plants are called ortiga, but the roots of this one are used against venereal diseases
Palo bobo: (Ipomoea arborescens – Convolvulaceae):
– Cardiac problems
– Fever
– Spleen
– “Madness”
– Toxic to ruminants (causes emaciation)
Palo de Brasil: (Haematoxylon brasiletto – Fabaceae):
– Tea made from branches taken to treat depression, fever and urinary problems (infections, kidney stones)
Palo de Campeche, Tinto: (Haematoxylon campechianum – Fabaceae):
– Branch decoction taken as tea to treat:
– Diarrhea and dysentery
– Venereal disease (blood purifier)
Palo dulce, Eysenhardtia: (Eysenhardtia polystachya):
– For kidney problems, place wood chips into water, and when the water turns blue, then red or amber, drink
Palo fierro: (Olneya tesota – Fabaceae):
– Asthma
– Fever
– Loose teeth
– Stomach ache
Palo mulato: (Bursera grandifolia – Burseraceae):
– A decoction of the bark is taken as tea against fever
– Headache
– Stomachache (branch decoction applied topically as poultice)
Papayo: (Carica papaya – Caricaceae):
– Asthma (boiled leaves as plaster)
– Digestive (pulp)
– Insect bite (latex)
– Meat tenderizer (seeds)
– Seeds used to expel worms
Pata de vaca: (Bauhinia divaricata – Fabaceae):
– Asthma
– “Cesido”
– Dysentery
– “Empacho”
– Icterus
– Worms
Pata de leon, Wild Geranium: (Geranium spp.):
– An infusion of this herb is added to the bath water of babies to rid them of the rash; the brew is also good for washing wounds.
Pegarropa, Pegajosa: (Mentziella hispida – Loasaceae):
– Venereal disease
– Depurative
– Purgative
– Avoid in pregnancy
Pica: (Mucuna pruriens – Fabaceae):
– The hairs covering pod are mixed with porridge to expel worms
– This product is ingested before breakfast
– Avoid in pregnancy
– Allergenic to skin
Pingüica: (Ehretia tinifolia – Boraginaceae):
– Leaves and fruits used to make tea for treatment of urinary ailments
Pinguica, Manzanita: (Arctostaphylos pungens):
– For kidney problems, drink a tea made from boiled leaves and fruits
Piñoncillo: (Jatropha curcas – Euphorbiaceae):
– Abortifacient
– Candidiasis (oral)
– Oral infections
– Purgative (latex and roasted seeds)
– Potentially toxic
– Avoid internally
Pirúl, Arbol del Perú: (Schinus molle – Anacardiaceae):
– Tea made from leaves is used to treat diverse ailments including: colic, conjunctivitis, coughs, gonorrhea, rheumatism and tuberculosis
– The plant can be a skin allergen
Pitahaya: (Lemaireocereus thurberi – Cactaceae):
– Tea made from the plant used to treat diabetes
– Snakebite (unproven treatment)
– Stings
Plátano, Banana: (Musa sapientum – Musaceae):
– Fruit is used to treat gall bladder ailments and diarrhea
– Fruit peel decoction taken as tea
– Fruit is rich source of potassium and carbohydrates
Pongolote: (Cochliospermum vitifolium – Cochlospermaceae):
– Enemas (bark decoction) for digestive problems and body cleansing
Puán: (Muntingia calabura – Eleocarpaceae):
– A decoction made from the plant is used externally to treat measles, urticaria and skin infections
Quelite, Bledo, Lamb’s quarters: (Amaranthus hybridus – Amaranthaceae):
– Tea made from the plant is used to treat diarrhea and intestinal – hemorrhages
– Leaves are edible, but may contain oxalates
– Externally, the leaves are applied as a poultice to treat skin infections
Quiebra muelas, Milkweed: (Asclepias curassavica – Asclepiadaceae):
– Boils (leaf poultice applied topically)
– Toothache (latex applied topically)
– Avoid internal use, potentially toxic
Quiebra muelas, Milkweed: (Asclepias curassavica – Asclepiadaceae):
– Boils (leaf poultice applied topically)
– Toothache (latex applied topically)
– Avoid internal use, potentially toxic
Ramón: (Brosimum alicastrum – Moraceae):
– Boils (bark decoction as tea or wash)
– Coughs
– Kidney pain (leaf decoction as tea)
Roble: (Tabebuia rosea – Bignoniaceae):
– Callous feet (bark applied topically)
– Fever
– Rheumatism (branch decoction applied as bath)
Romero, Rosemary: (Rosmarinus officinalis):
– To improve the digestion, drink a tea made of the boiled leaves
Ruda, Rue: (Ruta graveolens):
– Highly regarded for its abilities to induce menstruation, and to abort fetuses; in too high concentrations, it is exceedingly poisonous.
Salvia, Sage: (Salvia spp. – Lamiaceae):
– Tea from leaves is used to treat menstrual problems such as hot flashes in menopause
– Topically as skin antiseptic
– Essential oil is neurotoxic, avoid in epilepsy
– Avoid in patients with high blood pressure
– Avoid in small children
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
Sangre de drago, Sangregrado: (Jatropha dioica – Euphorbiaceae):
– Applied topically for alopecia and dandruff
– Branch decoction as rinse or mouthwash
– Avoid internally
– Drastic purgative
Sangre de grado: (Croton draco – Euphorbiaceae):
– Latex from the branch and fruit applied topically to treat candidiasis and stomatitis
– Avoid internally
– Drastic purgative
Saúco, Mexican elder: (Sambucus mexicana – Caprifoliaceae):
– Arthritis and rheumatism (leaves- externally)
– Coughs, bronchitis (flowers-infusion)
– Expectorant
– Whooping cough
– Unripe berries may cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting)
– Avoid bark, root or berries in small children, as well as during pregnancy and lactation
Sávila, Zábila, Aloe: (Aloe spp . – Liliaceae):
– Gel is emollient and used topically for skin cuts, infections and burns (usually safe)
– Latex is purgative, used to treat constipation and diabetes, but may cause toxicity
– Leaf preparations may cause uterine contractions, avoid in pregnancy and lactation
– Avoid internally, it may be irritating to intestine and kidneys
Tabachín: (Caesalpinia pulcherrima – Fabaceae):
– Flower infusion (tea) is used to treat coughs and a condition known as “Oguío”
Tabaco coyote, Wild tobacco: (Nicotiana glauca – Solanaceae):
– Arthritis (topical)
– Asthma (smoked)
– Fever ( leaves applied on stomach)
– Headache (leaves applied on temples)
– Contains nicotine
– Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and in small children
Taray: (Eysenhardtia polystachya – Leguminosae):
– The bark is used as a tea (diuretic)
Táscate, Juniper: (Juniperus deppeana – Pinaceae):
– Neuralgia – rheumatism (topical)
– Nocturnal enuresis in children
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
– Avoid internal use
Tatachinole: (Tournefortia hartwegiana – Boraginaceae):
– A decoction from the roots is taken to treat coughs, kidney stones, parasites and rheumatism
Tejocote, Hawthorn: (Crataegus mexicana):
– Used to ‘flush out the kidneys,’ (boil the root in water and drink the tea)
Tepescohuite: (Mimosa tenuiflora – Fabaceae):
– Burns, wounds (pulveri-ed bark, applied topically)
– Gastritis, ulcers (bark decoction as tea)
Tepopote, Mormon tea: (Ephedra antisyphilitica):
– A tea from the boiled stems is used for venereal diseases and kidney problems
Texcalama, Amate: (Ficus petiolaris – Moraceae):
– Chest pains
– Emetic (root)
– Fractures (topical)
– Cathartic
– Stomatitis (latex)
– Emetic (root)
– Avoid in pregnancy
Tilia, Linden, Basswood: (Tilia spp.):
– For coughs, a tea brewed from the boiled flowers is drunk
Tlachichinole: (Kohleria deppeana – Gesneraciae):
– A tea made from the branches is taken to treat gastrointestinal inflammation and kidney pain
Tlatlancuaya: (Irisine celosia – Amaranthaceae):
Anti-inflammatory
Diaphoretic
Fever
Insect bites
Typhoid fever
Typhus
Toje: (Phoradendron californicum – Loranthaceae):
– Used to treat boils, diarrhea and venereal disease
– Potentially toxic
– Avoid in pregnancy
– May cause hypotension
Toloache (Datura stramonium – Solanaceae):
– Asthma ( smoked as cigarrettes)
– Applied topically for skin boils. Hallucinogenic (seeds)
– Rheumatism (topical)
– Used in ethnic rituals
– Can be toxic.
Tronador (Kalanchoe pinnata – Crassulaceae):
– An African plant with anti-inflammatory properties
– Used topically for burns.
Tulipán: (Hibiscus sinensis – Malvaceae):
– Candidiasis (thrush)
Tulipán de monte (Malvaviscus arboreus – Malvaceae):
– Dysentery, gall bladder ailments and stomachache
Tumbavaqueros: (Ipomoea stans – Convolvulaceae):
– Root decoction for epilepsy, hepatitis and nervousness
Uña de gato (Martynia annua – Martyniaceae):
– Epilepsy (seed decoction)
– Unrelated to plant from South America with the same common name (Uncaria tomentosa)
Una de gato: (pisonia, Pisonia aculeata):
– Several plants go by this name, but for this one, a member of the four o’clock family, drink tea from boiled leaves and bark to ease arthritic pain in joints
Vara Blanca (Croton fragilis – Euphorbiaceae):
– Diarrhea (the bark decoction is used as tea)
– Stomach upset, as a purgative and for malaria (the bark decoction is used as tea)
Wereke, Guareque (Ibervillea sonorae – Cucurbitaceae):
– The dried root is used to make a decoction to treat diabetes
– The pulverized root is applied to skin as an antiseptic
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation.
Zapo, Lomboy blanco: (Jatropha cinerea):
– Leaf decoction is used for scabs
– The sap is a purgative
– Avoid in pregnancy.
Zacatechichi Calea:
– Tea from the leaves promotes appetite and is also used to treat fever and stomach ailments, such as colic, and diarrhea.
Zacate limon: (lemon-grass, or citronella, Cymbopogon nardus):
– The lemony brewed tea is a good anti-flatulent and soothes the intestines in general
Zoapatle, Cíhuatlpatli:
– Tea from the leaves is used to promote labour and as a contraceptive
– Avoid internal
– Avoid in pregnancy and lactation (potentially toxic to both mother and child).
Zapote blanco, White sapota: (Casimiroa edulis – Rutaceae):
– A decoction of the seeds and leaves is used to treat insomnia and high blood pressure
– The seeds are hypnotic and are toxic in large doses
– Avoid in pregnancy
Sources:
https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/28611
http://www.herbalsafety.utep.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Plants-Used-in-Mexican-Traditional-Medicine-July-04.pdf
http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Indigofera+suffruticosa
http://www.cinelines.com/vc/students/newmexico/Deborah/driedherbs.htm
http://heritagegarden.uic.edu/mexican-tarragon-tagetes-lucida/
http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Indigofera+suffruticosa
http://www.herbnet.com/Herb%20Uses_C.htm
http://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Inga+jinicuil
https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/cedron42.html
http://www.homeopathycenter.org/remedy/chaparro-amargoso
https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/cedron42.html
http://www.stuartxchange.org/Kakawati.html
http://www.herbnet.com/Herb%20Uses_C.htm
http://www.medicinatradicionalmexicana.unam.mx/termino.php?l=3&t=Argemone mexicana
http://www.cuidadodelasalud.com/medicina-natural/para-que-sirve-la-planta-medicinal-chicalote-argemone-mexicana/
http://www.medicinatradicionalmexicana.unam.mx/termino.php?l=3&id=7519
This article is copyrighted by Ital is Vital, 2024. Want to re-post this article? Visit our guidelines.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
