PlantsPlants UsedUsed inin MexicanMexican TraditionalTraditional MedicineMedicine
Their Application and Effects In Traditional Healing Practices
Text by
Armando González Stuart, Ph.D. Herbal Research Coordinator UTEP/UT Austin Cooperative Pharmacy Program AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements z We would like to thank Ms Sarah Schoofield, of México Desconocido magazine, for her generous permission to use the beautiful photographs, drawings and maps, which have appeared in various publications of that magazine. z The majority of the photos, drawings, and maps presented here are the work of photographers, artists and scientists including: Abigaíl Aguilar-MS, Lorenzo Armendáriz, Salatiel Barragán, Robert Bye-PhD, André Cabrolier, Rafael Doniz, Ignacio Guevara, Franz Mahler, Ruben Morante, Oscar Pastor Ojeda, Manuel Sarmiento, Nicolás Triedo and Santiago Xolapa. DisclaimerDisclaimer z This presentation is not intended to promote any plant to be used for therapeutic purposes. z It is merely a compilation of herbal use by Mexican Traditional Medicine. z Very few of these plants have ever been studied in depth, so little is known about their efficacy or possible side effects. z Warning: Do not self-medicate with any herb. Consult your health provider first. IntroductionIntroduction z Mexico has a rich tradition of herbal use that predates the European conquest by many centuries z Mexico's medicinal herbal repertoire is one of the world’s most diverse and contains various native plants, as well as many other species introduced from diverse parts of the globe z Approximately 3,000 to 5,000 plants (both native and introduced) are currently used medicinally by 52 different ethnicities throughout the country MedicinalMedicinal PlantsPlants inin MexicoMexico
z The Aztec civilization of Mexico was the only one in the New World to record the use of medicinal herbs z They did so in “codices” or catalogues that showed drawings of the plants Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Codices containing information about Aztec medicinal plants were considered “heretical”, and burned by Spanish missionaries CodicesCodices z A few missionaries had the vision of recuperating at least a small portion of this knowledge and reconstructing two codices z One was written, both in Latin and Náhuatl (the Aztec language) and known as the De La Cruz- Badiano Codex z It became the first bilingual publication of the New World (1552) Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine CodicesCodices z These codices were taken to Italy and forgotten for more than 300 years z They were “rediscovered” until the twentieth century z Some of the plants pictured in the codices are still used
in the same way today. Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine México’sMéxico’s greatgreat biodiversitybiodiversity z Mexico's rugged landscape includes a great diversity of plants, animals and fungi z Unfortunately, very few Mexican plants have ever been studied in detail regarding their medicinal potential z Deforestation, ill-planned urban expansion, uncontrolled livestock grazing, and desertification are currently threatening Mexico's natural resources, including the survival of various medicinal plants Mexico has a rich diversity of medicinal plants
Map courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Some medicinal plants may have a mystical significance in Mexican traditional healing practices Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine The peyote cactus has been used for centuries in various religious ceremonies Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Medicinal plants are used in various types of healing practices throughout Mexico Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Traditional healers view some plants as important spiritual entities Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Drying herbs in the traditional way TheThe MarketplaceMarketplace z In Mexico, marketplaces are important areas of sale and distribution for medicinal herbs z Since before Columbus, markets have provided medicinal plants to people, as well as advice from vendors and healers on how to use them z Whether to instill or break a magic spell, or for direct medicinal purposes to cure a specific disease, herbs are still very important in the lives of millions of people Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Aztec marketplace Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine Modern market in Mexico City MedicinalMedicinal PlantsPlants inin MexicoMexico
Traditional Uses and Applications AchioteAchiote,, AnnatoAnnato BixaBixa orellanaorellana -- BixaceaeBixaceae z Measles (ground seeds applied to bath) z Buccal sores
(seeds steeped in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine water, as rinse) z Condiment and food coloring AhuehueteAhuehuete,, SabinoSabino TaxodiumTaxodium mucronatummucronatum -- TaxodiaceaeTaxodiaceae z Burns (bark decoction, poultice)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine z Diarrhea (leaf infusion, as tea) AhuehueteAhuehuete treetree
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine AilAiléé,, BirchBirch AlnusAlnus argutaarguta -- BetulaceaeBetulaceae z Fever z Inflammation z As a poultice to Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine wash wounds AlamoAlamo PlatanusPlatanus lindelianalindeliana PlatanaceaePlatanaceae z Colds (ground leaves with oil applied topically as poultice)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Fractures z Headache AnAnííss TagetesTagetes lucidalucida CavCav.. AsteraeceaeAsteraeceae z Carminative, digestive z Inflammatory, fever z “Empacho”(Stomach upset) z Avoid in pregnancy z Unrelated to European Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine or Star Anise AñAñííll,, IndigoIndigo IndigoferaIndigofera suffruticosasuffruticosa FabaceaeFabaceae z Urinary problems z Constipation z Mange Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Syphilis AnonaAnona AnonaAnona reticulatareticulata AnonaceaeAnonaceae z Boils (leaf infusion as a wash) z Diarrhea (bark decoction as tea) ÁÁrnicarnica deldel papaííss,, FalsaFalsa áárnicarnica HeterothecaHeterotheca inuloidesinuloides -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Bruises, contusions (topically) z Tea as gargles for sore throat z Potentially toxic, avoid internal use Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Not to be confused with European arnica, with which it shares some of its applications ““AzafrAzafráánn”,”, ZacatlaxcaleZacatlaxcale CuscutaCuscuta sppspp..-- ConvolvulaceaeConvolvulaceae z Parasitic plant z Purgative internally
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Fright (“susto”) (plant decoction, as bath) BajaBaja tripatripa RivinaRivina humilishumilis -- PhytolaccaceaePhytolaccaceae z “Aire” (Wind) z “Espanto” (Fright) z Rash (prickly heat) z Branch decoction applied externally as
body wash Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine BaiborBaiboríínn KallstroemaKallstroema grandifloragrandiflora -- ZygophyllaceaeZygophyllaceae z Fatigue z Fever z Body pains Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Mange BarbascoBarbasco,, CabezaCabeza dede negronegro DioscoreaDioscorea sppspp.. -- DioscoreaceaeDioscoreaceae z Body aches z Menstrual problems z Progesterone source z Rheumatism, aches (rhizome steeped in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine alcohol, as a rub) z Male contraceptive BarquillaBarquilla RhoeoRhoeo discolordiscolor -- CommelinaceaeCommelinaceae z Fungal infections: roasted leaves, topical z Vaginal infections: leaf infusion douche Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Measles (leaf infusion, orally) BatamoteBatamote BaccharisBaccharis glutinosaglutinosa AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Alopecia z Stomach ache
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Mange z Foot odor BayetillaBayetilla HameliaHamelia patenspatens RubiaceaeRubiaceae z Anti inflammatory z Boils (stem decoction, externally)
z Pain relief (topical) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Yellow fever (leaf infusion as tea) BerroBerro NasturtiumNasturtium acuaticumacuaticum BrassicaceaeBrassicaceae z Goiter (iodide ) z Kidney pain z Stomach inflammation (raw)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Tuberculosis (infusion) BretBretóónicanica LepechiniaLepechinia caulescenscaulescens LamiaceaeLamiaceae z Diarrhea z Dysentery (stem decoction) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Gastritis (topical) CabezonaCabezona,, ChapChapúúzz HeleniumHelenium mexicanummexicanum -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Colds (pulverized flowerheads as stornutatories; to promote sneezing) z Toxic if ingested Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid use CacaloxCacaloxóóchitlchitl PlumeriaPlumeria rubrarubra ApocynaceaeApocynaceae
External application: z Gonorrhea z Warts z Wounds (minor) z Drastic purgative z Avoid internally Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine CahuayoteCahuayote GonolobusGonolobus nigerniger AsclepiadaceaeAsclepiadaceae z Gonorrhea (root decoction) z Efficacy unknown z Avoid during pregnancy and lactation CalagualaCalaguala PhlebodiumPhlebodium aureumaureum PolypodiaceaePolypodiaceae z Tea made from stem z Diarrhea z Gastric ulcers z Kidney pain z Efficacy unknown z Avoid in pregnancy CalderonaCalderona GalphimiaGalphimia glaucaglauca MalpighiaceaeMalpighiaceae z Boils (external application) z Vaginal infections z Wounds z Avoid in pregnancy CandelillaCandelilla EuphorbiaEuphorbia antisyphilliticaantisyphillitica EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Used against venereal disease (syphilis) z Cathartic (purgative) z Toothache z Headache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation CapulCapulíínn PrunusPrunus serotinaserotina RosaceaeRosaceae z Coughs (children) z Decoction of stems and leaves taken as infusion (tea)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine CedroCedro CedrelaCedrela odorataodorata MeliaceaeMeliaceae z Colic z Epilepsy (bark decoction as tea) z Fever z Gall bladder z Toothache (leaf tea) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine CeibaCeiba CeibaCeiba pentandrapentandra BombacaceaeBombacaceae z Anti inflammatory z Boils z Insect bites z Mange z Bark and leaf
decoctions as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine poultices ChabacalChabacal SalviaSalvia lavanduloideslavanduloides LamiaceaeLamiaceae z Bronchitis z Colds z Coughs z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine ChacaChaca BurseraBursera simarubasimaruba BurseraceaeBurseraceae z Fever (leaf infusion) z Leaves boiled in water to make a bath z Leaves applied on soles of feet Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine ChalahuiteChalahuite IngaInga jinicuiljinicuil FabaceaeFabaceae z Dysentery (bark decoction) z Stomach upset (“empacho”)
bark decoction Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Flower infusion taken for tachycardia (“latido”) ChaparroChaparro amargosoamargoso CastelaCastela tortuosatortuosa--SimaroubiaceaeSimaroubiaceae z Amoebic dysentery z Avoid during pregnancy/
lactation Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Shrublands in northern México ChapuliztleChapuliztle DodonaeaDodonaea viscosaviscosa SapindaceaeSapindaceae z Colic (leaf infusion) z Fever (bark decoction) z Gout ( leaf infusion) z Ground leaves applied to scabs and wounds Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Scalp problems z Venereal disease ChayaChaya CnidoscolusCnidoscolus chayamansachayamansa EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Boils (latex topically) z Diabetes z Kidney pain
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Obesity (capsules) ChicaloteChicalote ArgemoneArgemone mexicanamexicana,, A.A. sanguineasanguinea PapaveraceaePapaveraceae z Papaverine z hypnotic z Post-part. bleeding z Toothache z Alopecia (hair loss) z Kidney pain Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Seeds are toxic ChicozapoteChicozapote AchrasAchras zapotazapota ZapotaceaeZapotaceae z Ingestion of more than 10 seeds can be toxic ChicuraChicura FranseriaFranseria ambrosioidesambrosioides AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Promotes labor z Given near parturition z External application to treat scorpion stings z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine and lactation ChigChigüüisaisa PseudobombaxPseudobombax ellipticumellipticum BombacaceaeBombacaceae z Asthma z Colds z Coughs flower infusion taken Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine as tea ChipilChipilíínn CrotalariaCrotalaria incanaincana FabaceaeFabaceae z Urinary bladder “coldness” z May contain cyanogenic glycosides z May contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy ChollaCholla,, CardencheCardenche,, CoyonoxtleCoyonoxtle OpuntiaOpuntia imbricataimbricata -- CactaceaeCactaceae z Tea taken to treat asthma z Tea used against
diarrhea (plant Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine contains tannins) Chote,Chote,TuriTuri ParmentieraParmentiera edulisedulis BignoniaceaeBignoniaceae z Diabetes (root decoction as tea) z Earache z Urinary problems (fruit and branch infusion) z Respiratory ailments Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (flower, fruit and root infusion) CodoCodo dede frailefraile,, YYóóyotlyotl ThevetiaThevetia thevetioidesthevetioides -- ApocynaceaeApocynaceae z Boils and hemorrhoids (topically)
z “Weight loss”(seed) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Alkaloids (thevetine) z Very toxic, avoid all internal use CojCojóónn dede torotoro StemmadeniaStemmadenia donnelldonnell--smithismithi ApocynaceaeApocynaceae z Bruises, wounds (leaf decoction externally as poultice) z Mosquito bites (latex applied topically) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid internally ColaCola dede caballocaballo EquisetumEquisetum arvensearvense EquisetaceaeEquisetaceae z Arthritis and rheumatism z Diuretic z Urinary problems z Only the sterile Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine branches are used z Some species are thiaminase inhibitors ColaCola dede venadovenado ErigeronErigeron karwinskianuskarwinskianus --AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Dysentery z Kidney pain (stem decoction)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Sores (wash) ContrayerbaContrayerba DorsteniaDorstenia contrajerbacontrajerba -- MoraceaeMoraceae z Snakebite z Vaginal hemorrhage
z Venereal disease (root Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine decoction as tea) CordCordóónn dede SanSan AntonioAntonio HyptisHyptis stellulatastellulata -- LamiaceaeLamiaceae z Earache z Indigestion z “Pasmo” z Rheumatism Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Skin infections z Avoid in pregnancy CordonCordon dede SanSan FranciscoFrancisco SalviaSalvia leucanthaleucantha -- LamiaceaeLamiaceae z Fright (espanto) z To reconstitute women after birth (leaf infusion) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy CosCosááhuihui,, MameliqueMamelique,, CrameriaCrameria KrameriaKrameria grayigrayi -- KrameriaceaeKrameriaceae z Diarrhea z Skin antiseptic z Diabetes z Alopecia z Loose teeth Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine CuachalalateCuachalalate oo AxocopaqueAxocopaque AmphypteringiumAmphypteringium adstringensadstringens -- JulianaceaeJulianaceae z Circulatory ailments, mixed with sassparilla z Gastritis, peptic ulcers z Vaginal infections (topical) z Bark decoction or maceration CuatecomateCuatecomate,,GuajeGuaje CrescentiaCrescentia cujetecujete -- BignoniaceaeBignoniaceae z Alopecia (leaf infusion) z Diarrhea (leaf infusion)
z Expectorant (fruit pulp) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Liver ailments (fruit pulp) CucharitasCucharitas AcaciaAcacia cochliacanthacochliacantha FabaceaeFabaceae z Diarrhea z Stomach ache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Urinary bladder CuitlacocheCuitlacoche UstilagoUstilago maydismaydis
z This a fungus, not a green plant z Parasite of corncobs z Eaten as a delicacy z May contain alkaloids that stimulate uterus z Avoid in pregnancy CulantrilloCulantrillo dede pozopozo,, PalmitaPalmita AdiantumAdiantum capilluscapillus--venerisveneris PteridaceaePteridaceae z Leaf infusion as a tea z Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation) z Fright (susto) z Kidney stones z May cause abortion Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation CundeamorCundeamor MomordicaMomordica charantiacharantia CucurbitaceaeCucurbitaceae z Diabetes (fruit and leaves z Anthelminthic z Fever, Colic and headache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation DamianaDamiana TurneraTurnera diffusadiffusa TurneraceaeTurneraceae z Tea taken to “increase libido”, treat sterility, as a tonic for fatigue z For colds and body aches Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z May have antidepressant action z Avoid in pregnancy DienteDiente dede leleóónn,, DandelionDandelion TaraxacumTaraxacum officinaleofficinale -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Tea made from plant is used to treat gall bladder and liver ailments, anorexia z Digestive, diuretic z Externally, latex removes warts Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (irritating) DoradillaDoradilla,, ResurrectionResurrection plantplant SelaginellaSelaginella lepidophyllalepidophylla SelaginellaceaeSelaginellaceae z Diuretic z Gall bladder stones z Kidney pain z Urinary problems
z Combined with Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine horsetail (Equisetum) Encino,Encino, OakOak QuercusQuercus sppspp.. -- FagaceaeFagaceae z Astringent (tannins) z Bleeding gums z Loose teeth z Skin antiseptic z Toothache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Bark decoction EpazoteEpazote,, WormseedWormseed ChenopodiumChenopodium ambrosioidesambrosioides ChenopodiaceaeChenopodiaceae z Tea is taken to treat stomach ailments and expel worms z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and children
z Leaves are safe as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine condiment, but oil is neurotoxic EpazoteEpazote dede ZorrilloZorrillo C.C. graveolensgraveolens -- ChenopodiaceaeChenopodiaceae z Anthelminthic z “Aire” (flatulence) z Coughs (expectorant) z “Fright” (espanto) z Stomach and liver Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine ailments z Potentially toxic, avoid use EspinosillaEspinosilla LoeseliaLoeselia mexicanamexicana PolemoniaceaePolemoniaceae
External application for: z Alopecia z Dandruff z Erysipelas z Aerial parts as infusion (tea) EstafiateEstafiate ArtemisiaArtemisia mexicanamexicana AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Tea made from leaves and stems is used to treat stomachache, diarrhea, worms and rheumatism z Avoid in pregnancy and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine lactation z Avoid in patients with nervous disorders EstropajoEstropajo,, LuffaLuffa LuffaLuffa aegypticaaegyptica -- CucurbitaceaeCucurbitaceae z Gerícua (leaf infusion as bath) z Lice (mashed fruit in water, as hair rinse) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine FlorFlor dede manitamanita,, MacpalxMacpalxóóchitlchitl ChirantodendronChirantodendron pentadactylonpentadactylon SterculiaceaeSterculiaceae z Tea from flowers z Anxiety, Nerves
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Cardiac ailments FlorFlor dede tilatila,, LindenLinden TilaTila sppspp.. TilaceaeTilaceae z Anxiety z Insomnia z Nervous disorders Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Flower infusion GarañonaGarañona CastillejaCastilleja tenuifloratenuiflora ScrophulariaceaeScrophulariaceae z Alopecia z “Blood purifier”
z Gall bladder Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Vaginal infections Girasol,Girasol, SunflowerSunflower HelianthusHelianthus annuusannuus -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Headache z Nervous disorders (anxiety)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Scabs GobernadoraGobernadora,,GuGuáámismis,, CreosoteCreosote bush,bush, “Chaparral”“Chaparral” LarreaLarrea tridentatatridentata ZygophyllaceaeZygophyllaceae z Athlete’s foot z Cancer (antioxidant) z Foot odor z Fungal skin infection Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Kidney stones z Urinary infections z Venereal disease CreosoteCreosote bush,bush, “Chaparral”“Chaparral” z NDGA, active principle z Free radical scavenger
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Antifungal compounds CreosoteCreosote bush,bush, “Chaparral”“Chaparral” z Non-concentrated infusion internally z Concentrated forms not recommended Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Pills and capsules may cause hepatic and renal damage CreosoteCreosote bush,bush, “Chaparral”“Chaparral” z Avoid prolonged treatments z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation and small children Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Topical applications may cause irritation GordoloboGordolobo,, EverlastingEverlasting GnaphaliumGnaphalium sppspp.. -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Similar properties as unrelated Mullein (Verbascum spp.) z Respiratory problems, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine asthma, coughs z Lumbago (externally) z Avoid in pregnancy GuacoGuaco MikaniaMikania sppspp.. -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Stomach ulcers, liver problems z Worms z “Antidote” vs. snakebites (unproven, avoid) z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation GuamGuamúúchilchil PithecellobiumPithecellobium dulcedulce FabaceaeFabaceae z Diarrhea z Upset stomach
z Coughs Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Buccal sores GuanacastleGuanacastle EnterolobiumEnterolobium cyclocarpumcyclocarpum -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Red caterpillar sting (bark decoction applied directly to affected area)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine GuayabaGuayaba,, GuavaGuava PsidiumPsidium guavaguava -- MyrtaceaeMyrtaceae z Diarrhea (Tannins) z Stomach upset Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Excellent source of Vitamin C GuayacGuayacáánn,, PaloPalo SantoSanto GuaiacumGuaiacum sanctumsanctum -- ZygophyllaceaeZygophyllaceae z Coughs (flowers as tea) z Dysentery z Diaphoretic z Gastric ulcers Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Syphilis z Tuberculosis GuGuáázumazuma GuazumaGuazuma ulmifoliaulmifolia SterculiaceaeSterculiaceae z Diarrhea z Fever z Antiemetic
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z The fruits contain mucilage GuGuáázumazuma GuazumaGuazuma tomentosatomentosa SterculiaceaeSterculiaceae z Leprosy z Elephantiasis z Syphilis Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Skin infections HelechoHelecho macho,macho, MaleMale fernfern DryopterisDryopteris filixfilix--masmas z Anthelminthic, obsolete in modern phytotherapy z May cause abortion z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Avoid in children HierbaHierba dede lala vvííborabora ZorricaZorrica sppspp.. -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Taken as tea to treat “Pasmo” z Antidote vs. poisoning z Anti-inflammatory (topical application) HierbaHierba deldel ccááncerncer CupheaCuphea aequipetalaaequipetala -- LythraceaeLythraceae z Antiseptic z Boils, skin “tumors” z Diarrhea (leaf infusion) z Wounds z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in children HierbaHierba deldel carbonerocarbonero BaccharisBaccharis sarothroidessarothroides -- AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Colds z Muscular pain
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine HierbaHierba deldel golpegolpe OenotheraOenothera rosearosea -- OnagraceaeOnagraceae z Bruises (topically) z Colic (infusion)
z Skin inflammation Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (poultice, topically) HierbaHierba deldel pollopollo ((MatlMatláálili)) CommelinaCommelina stansstans -- CommelinaceaeCommelinaceae z Arthritis (topically) z Colic z To treat diarrhea, the leaves are blended
with water, lime juice Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine and honey) z Hemostatic; fresh crushed leaves applied directly to cut HierbaHierba deldel zorrillozorrillo PetiveriaPetiveria alliaceaalliacea -- PhytolaccaceaePhytolaccaceae z Fever z Seizures z Weakness z Avoid in small children, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine pregnancy and lactation HierbaHierba dede SanSan FranciscoFrancisco HeimiaHeimia salicifoliasalicifolia -- LithraceaeLithraceae z Bruises, inflammation (ground leaves applied topically as plaster) z Cold bladder (branch decoction as bath) HierbaHierba LuisaLuisa AloysiaAloysia triphyllatriphylla VerbenaceaeVerbenaceae z Tea from leaves is taken to treat anxiety, diarrhea and stomach upset z Leaves have citrus-like aroma HiguerillaHiguerilla,, RicinoRicino,, CastorCastor oil,oil, PalmaPalma christichristi)) RicinusRicinus communiscommunis -- EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Fever, headache z Purgative z Seeds very poisonous z Lectins cause hemagglutination of red blood cells z Avoid internal use HojaHoja santasanta TlanepaqueliteTlanepaquelite,, MomoMomo PiperPiper sanctumsanctum -- PiperaceaePiperaceae z Tea from stems and leaves is used to treat “susto” or fright
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine HuinHuinóólolo,, ChirChirááhuihui AcaciaAcacia cuchliacantacuchliacanta -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Colds z Diarrhea z Gastritis z Typhoid fever z Urinary problems Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine HuizacheHuizache AcaciaAcacia farnesianafarnesiana FabaceaeFabaceae z Diabetes z Diarrhea z Dyspepsia (flowers) z Fever Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Kidney pain z Tuberculosis (root) HuleHule CastillejaCastilleja elasticaelastica MoraceaeMoraceae z Dislocations z Fractures z Latex applied topically z “Vilmas”(bandages) FlorFlor dede Jamaica,Jamaica, Hibiscus,Hibiscus, RoselleRoselle HibiscusHibiscus sabdariffasabdariffa -- MalvaceaeMalvaceae z May lower cholesterol z Diuretic
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Fever z Laxative, digestive LLáágrimasgrimas dede SanSan Pedro,Pedro, Job’sJob’s tearstears CoixCoix lachrymalachryma--jobijobi -- PoaceaePoaceae z Tea from the leaves is used to treat diabetes
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine MadroñoMadroño ArbutusArbutus xalapensisxalapensis EricaceaeEricaceae z Kidney pain z Leaf decoction
z Ingested as tea Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy MagnoliaMagnolia MagnoliaMagnolia grandifloragrandiflora MagnoliaceaeMagnoliaceae z Cardiac problems z Nerves z Seizures z Avoid in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine pregnancy MagueyMaguey,, CenturyCentury plantplant AgaveAgave sppspp.. AgavaceaeAgavaceae z The leaf juice is taken internally to treat constipation and other digestive ailments z Aguamiel (sugar extract Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine from root) used against gonorrhea MangleMangle rojorojo RhizophoraRhizophora manglemangle RhizphoraceaeRhizphoraceae z Diabetes z Dysentery z Kidney pain Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (bark decoction as tea) MangoMango MangiferaMangifera indicaindica AnacardiaceaeAnacardiaceae z Originally from Asia z Mouth infections (seed decoction as mouthwash) z Stomachache (bark Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine decoction as tea) MataMata ratratóónn,, CocoCocoíítete GliricidiaGliricidia sepiumsepium -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Fever z Stomach upset
z Leaves are used as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine rodent poison z Avoid internally MezquiteMezquite ProsopisProsopis juliflorajuliflora FabaceaeFabaceae z Boils (leaves) z Conjunctivitis (leaves) z Stomach upset MuicleMuicle JusticiaJusticia spicigeraspicigera AcanthaceaeAcanthaceae z Tea from aerial parts taken to treat constipation
z Mange (branch decoction Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine applied topically) z Rash NancheNanche ByrsonimaByrsonima crassifoliacrassifolia MalpighiaceaeMalpighiaceae z Astringent action used to treat diarrhea z Fungal infections of the gums Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Loose teeth NopalNopal,, PricklyPrickly pearpear cactuscactus OpuntiaOpuntia sppspp.. CactaceaeCactaceae z Stems eaten raw or cooked to treat diabetes z Stems contain mucilage and fiber z Pulverized cactus capsules taken to lower cholesterol Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Digestive z Obesity (fiber) NopalNopal duraznilloduraznillo OpuntiaOpuntia leucotrichaleucotricha -- CactaceaeCactaceae z Stem eaten to treat diabetes z Diarrhea Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Urinary - problems OcoteOcote coloradocolorado PinusPinus patulapatula PinaceaePinaceae z Sore throat (hoarseness) z Branch decoction taken as tea Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Colds PaloPalo bobobobo IpomoeaIpomoea arborescensarborescens ConvolvulaceaeConvolvulaceae z Cardiac problems z Fever z Spleen z “Madness” z Toxic to ruminants (causes emaciation) PaloPalo dede BrasilBrasil HaematoxylonHaematoxylon brasilettobrasiletto -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Tea made from branches taken to treat depression, fever and urinary problems (infections, kidney stones)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PaloPalo dede CampecheCampeche,, TintoTinto HaematoxylonHaematoxylon campechianumcampechianum -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Branch decoction taken as tea to treat: z Diarrhea and dysentery z Venereal disease (“blood purifier”)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PaloPalo fierrofierro OlneyaOlneya tesotatesota FabaceaeFabaceae z Asthma z Fever z Loose teeth Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Stomach ache PaloPalo mulatomulato BurseraBursera grandifoliagrandifolia BurseraceaeBurseraceae z A decoction of the bark is taken as tea against fever
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PaloPalo mulatomulato BurseraBursera grandifoliagrandifolia BurseraceaeBurseraceae z Headache z Stomachache (branch decoction applied topically as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine poultice) PapayoPapayo CaricaCarica papayapapaya -- CaricaceaeCaricaceae z Asthma (boiled leaves as plaster) z Digestive (pulp) z Insect bite (latex)
z Meat tenderizer (seeds) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Seeds used to expel worms PataPata dede vacavaca BauhiniaBauhinia divaricatadivaricata FabaceaeFabaceae z Asthma z “Cesido” z Dysentery z “Empacho” z Icterus z Worms Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PegarropaPegarropa,, PegajosaPegajosa MentziellaMentziella hispidahispida --LoasaceaeLoasaceae z Venereal disease z Depurative z Purgative
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy PicaPica -- picapica MucunaMucuna prurienspruriens -- FabaceaeFabaceae z The “hairs” covering pod are mixed with porridge or soft cheese to expel worms z This product is ingested before breakfast z Avoid in pregnancy z Allergenic to skin PingPingüüicaica EhretiaEhretia tinifoliatinifolia BoraginaceaeBoraginaceae z Leaves and fruits used to make tea for treatment of urinary ailments
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PiñoncilloPiñoncillo JatrophaJatropha curcascurcas EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Abortifacient z Candidiasis (oral) z Oral infections z Purgative (latex and roasted seeds)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Potentially toxic z Avoid internally PirPirúúll,, AArbolrbol deldel PerPerúú SchinusSchinus mollemolle -- AnacardiaceaeAnacardiaceae z Tea made from leaves is used to treat diverse ailments including: colic, conjunctivitis, coughs, gonorrhea, rheumatism and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine tuberculosis z The plant can be a skin allergen PitahayaPitahaya LemaireocereusLemaireocereus thurberithurberi -- CactaceaeCactaceae z Tea made from the plant used to treat diabetes z Snakebite (unproven treatment) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Stings PlPláátanotano,, BananaBanana MusaMusa sapientumsapientum MusaceaeMusaceae z Fruit is used to treat gall bladder ailments and diarrhea z Fruit peel decoction taken as tea z Fruit is rich source of potassium and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine carbohydrates PongolotePongolote CochliospermumCochliospermum vitifoliumvitifolium CochlospermaceaeCochlospermaceae z Enemas (bark decoction) for digestive problems
and body cleansing Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine PuPuáánn MuntingiaMuntingia calaburacalabura EleocarpaceaeEleocarpaceae z A decoction made from the plant is used externally to treat measles, urticaria and skin infections Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine QueliteQuelite,, BledoBledo,, Lamb’sLamb’s quartersquarters AmaranthusAmaranthus hybridushybridus -- AmaranthaceaeAmaranthaceae z Tea made from the plant is used to treat diarrhea and intestinal - hemorrhages z Leaves are edible, but may contain oxalates Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Externally, the leaves are applied as a poultice to treat skin infections QuiebraQuiebra muelasmuelas,, MilkweedMilkweed AsclepiasAsclepias curassavicacurassavica -- AsclepiadaceaeAsclepiadaceae z Boils (leaf poultice applied topically) z Toothache (latex applied topically)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid internal use, potentially toxic RamRamóónn BrosimumBrosimum alicastrumalicastrum MoraceaeMoraceae z Boils (bark decoction as tea or wash) z Coughs z Kidney pain Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (leaf decoction as tea) RobleRoble TabebuiaTabebuia rosearosea BignoniaceaeBignoniaceae z Callous feet (bark applied topically) z Fever z Rheumatism (branch decoction applied as bath) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine Salvia,Salvia, SageSage SalviaSalvia sppspp.. -- LamiaceaeLamiaceae z Tea from leaves is used to treat menstrual problems such as hot flashes in menopause z Topically as skin antiseptic z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation SalviaSalvia,, SageSage z Essential oil is neurotoxic, avoid in epilepsy z Avoid in patients with high blood pressure z Avoid in small children SangreSangre dede dragodrago,, SangregradoSangregrado JatrophaJatropha dioicadioica -- EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Applied topically for alopecia and dandruff z Branch decoction as rinse or mouthwash z Avoid internally Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Drastic purgative SangreSangre dede gradogrado CrotonCroton dracodraco -- EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Latex from the branch and fruit applied topically to treat
candidiasis and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine stomatitis z Avoid internally z Drastic purgative SaSaúúcoco,, MexicanMexican elderelder SambucusSambucus mexicanamexicana -- CaprifoliaceaeCaprifoliaceae z Arthritis and rheumatism (leaves- externally) z Coughs, bronchitis
(flowers-infusion) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Expectorant z Whooping cough SaSaúúcoco,, ElderElder z Unripe berries may cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting)
z Avoid bark, root or Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine berries in small children, as well as during pregnancy and lactation SSáávilavila,, ZZáábilabila,, AloeAloe AloeAloe sppspp.. -- LiliaceaeLiliaceae z Gel is emollient and used topically for skin cuts, infections and burns (usually safe) z Latex is purgative, used
to treat constipation and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine diabetes, but may cause toxicity SSáávilavila,, ZZáábilabila,, AloeAloe z Leaf preparations may cause uterine contractions, avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Avoid internally, it may be irritating to intestine and kidneys Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine TabachTabachíínn CaesalpiniaCaesalpinia pulcherrimapulcherrima FabaceaeFabaceae z Flower infusion (tea) is used to treat coughs and a condition known as “Oguío” Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine TabacoTabaco coyote,coyote, WildWild tobaccotobacco NicotianaNicotiana glaucaglauca -- SolanaceaeSolanaceae z Arthritis (topical) z Asthma (smoked) z Fever (leaves applied on stomach) z Headache (leaves
applied on temples) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine TabacoTabaco coyote,coyote, T.T. cimarroncimarron z Contains nicotine z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and in small children TarayTaray EysenhardtiaEysenhardtia polystachyapolystachya LeguminosaeLeguminosae z The bark is used as a tea (diuretic) TTááscatescate,, JuniperJuniper JuniperusJuniperus deppeanadeppeana -- PinaceaePinaceae z Neuralgia – rheumatism (topical) z Nocturnal enuresis in children z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine and lactation z Avoid internal use TatachinoleTatachinole TournefortiaTournefortia hartwegianahartwegiana -- BoraginaceaeBoraginaceae z A decoction from the roots is taken to treat coughs, kidney stones, parasites and rheumatism
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine TepescohuiteTepescohuite MimosaMimosa tenuifloratenuiflora -- FabaceaeFabaceae z Burns, wounds (pulverized bark, applied topically)
z Gastritis, ulcers Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine (bark decoction as tea) TexcalamaTexcalama,, AmateAmate FicusFicus petiolarispetiolaris -- MoraceaeMoraceae z Chest pains z Emetic (root) z Fractures (topical) z Cathartic z Stomatitis (latex) z Emetic (root) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy TlachichinoleTlachichinole KohleriaKohleria deppeanadeppeana GesneraciaeGesneraciae z A tea made from the branches is taken to treat gastrointestinal inflammation and kidney pain
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine TlatlancuayaTlatlancuaya IrisineIrisine celosiacelosia AmaranthaceaeAmaranthaceae z Anti inflammatory z Diaphoretic z Fever z Insect bites
z Typhoid fever Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Typhus TojeToje PhoradendronPhoradendron californicumcalifornicum LoranthaceaeLoranthaceae z Used to treat boils, diarrhea and venereal disease z Potentially toxic z Avoid in pregnancy z May cause hypotension Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine ToloacheToloache DaturaDatura stramoniumstramonium SolanaceaeSolanaceae z Asthma ( smoked as cigarrettes) z Applied topically for skin boils z Hallucinogenic (seeds) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Rheumatism (topical) z Used in ethnic rituals z Toxic, Avoid Use TronadorTronador KalanchoeKalanchoe pinnatapinnata CrassulaceaeCrassulaceae z African plant z z Anti inflammatory z Burns (topically) TulipTulipáánn HibiscusHibiscus sinensissinensis MalvaceaeMalvaceae z “Ascedio” z Candidiasis (thrush) TulipTulipáánn dede montemonte MalvaviscusMalvaviscus arboreusarboreus -- MalvaceaeMalvaceae z Dysentery z Gall bladder ailments z Stomachache TumbavaquerosTumbavaqueros IpomoeaIpomoea stansstans ConvolvulaceaeConvolvulaceae z Epilepsy z Hepatitis
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Nervousness z Root decoction UUññaa dede gatogato MartyniaMartynia annuaannua MartyniaceaeMartyniaceae z Epilepsy (seed decoction) z Unrelated to plant from South America with the Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine same common name (Uncaria tomentosa) VaraVara BlancaBlanca CrotonCroton fragilisfragilis -- EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Diarrhea z Purgative
z Stomach upset Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Malaria (bark decoction as tea) WerekeWereke,, GuarequeGuareque IbervilleaIbervillea sonoraesonorae -- CucurbitaceaeCucurbitaceae z The dried root is used to make a decoction to treat diabetes z Pulverized root is applied to skin as an antiseptic Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation ZapoZapo,, LomboyLomboy blancoblanco JatrophaJatropha cinereacinerea -- EuphorbiaceaeEuphorbiaceae z Scabs and skin infections (leaf decoction) z Candidiasis (rinse) z Sap purgative z Avoid in pregnancy ZapoteZapote blancoblanco,, WhiteWhite sapotasapota CasimiroaCasimiroa edulisedulis -- RutaceaeRutaceae z A decoction of the seeds and leaves is used to treat insomnia and high blood pressure z Seeds are hypnotic; Photo courtesy of Mexico Desconocido Magazine toxic in large doses z Avoid in pregnancy ZacatechichiZacatechichi CaleaCalea zacatechichizacatechichi AsteraceaeAsteraceae z Tea from the leaves promotes appetite and is also used to treat fever and stomach ailments, such as colic, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine and diarrhea ZoapatleZoapatle,, CCííhuatlpatlihuatlpatli z Tea from the leaves is used to promote labor and as a contraceptive z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation (potentially toxic to both mother and child) Photo by Dr. Robert Bye, from Plantas de México al Mundo z Avoid internally SelectedSelected BibliographyBibliography onon MexicanMexican PlantsPlants
Adame J, Adame H. Plantas Curativas del Noreste Mexicano. Monterrey, Mexico: Ediciones Castillo; 2000.
Aguilar A. Plantas Medicinales del Centro de México. México City: Guías Prácticas México Desconocido; 1999.
Argueta A. Atlas de las Plantas de la Medicina Tradicional Mexicana. 3 Vols. Mexico City: Instituto Nacional Indigenista; 1994
Cabrera R. Yerbario mexicano. Mexico City: Gomez-Gomez Hermanos; 1988.
Chávez M, Franco I, González M. Tlatenco: Tradición Herbolaria y Remedios Caseros. Mexico City: INAH; 2003.
Gispert M, Rodriguez H . Los Coras: Plantas Alimenticias y Medicinales De Su Ambiente Natural. Mexico City: CONACULTA; 1998.
González M. Plantas Medicinales del Noreste de México. Monterrey, Mexico: IMSS-Vitro; 1998.
González-Stuart A. Plantas Tóxicas Para El Ganado. Mexico City: Editorial Limusa; 1990.
Johnson D, Moreno S, Lopez R. Compendio Fitoquímico de La Medicina Tradicional Herbolaria de Sonora. Hermosillo: Universidad de Sonora; 1996.
Linares E, Flores B, Bye R. Selección de Plantas Medicinales de México. Mexico City: Limusa; 1994. SelectedSelected BibliographyBibliography onon MexicanMexican PlantsPlants
Lozoya, X. Plantas Medicinales Prehispánicas. Arqueologia Mexicana 2000: 7 (39) 14-21.
Lozoya, X. Tziuhpatli: Herba Officinalis. Mexico City: SSA-UNAM;1999.
Martínez M. Las Plantas Medicinales de México. Mexico City: Editorial Botas; 1989.
Vázquez, R Plantas Medicinales del Noroeste de México. Mexico City: Guías México Desconocido # 4; 1999.
Zamora I, Barquin M. Estudio de La Relacion Planta-Hombre En Los Municipios de Mineral del Monte y Mineral del Chico, Estado de Hidalgo. Pachuca: Gobierno del Estado de Hidalgo;1997.