Plants Used in Mexican Traditional Medicine

Their Application and Effects In Traditional Healing Practices

Text by

Armando Gonzlez Stuart, Ph.D.

Herbal Research Coordinator UTEP/UT Austin Cooperative Pharmacy Program

Acknowledgements
z

We would like to thank Ms Sarah Schoofield, of Mxico Desconocido magazine, for her generous permission to use the beautiful photographs, drawings and maps, which have appeared in various publications of that magazine. The majority of the photos, drawings, and maps presented here are the work of photographers, artists and scientists including: Abigal Aguilar-MS, Lorenzo Armendriz, Salatiel Barragn, Robert Bye-PhD, Andr Cabrolier, Rafael Doniz, Ignacio Guevara, Franz Mahler, Ruben Morante, Oscar Pastor Ojeda, Manuel Sarmiento, Nicols Triedo and Santiago Xolapa.

Disclaimer
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.
z

Introduction
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 worlds 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

Medicinal Plants in Mexico

z

The Aztec civilization of Mexico was the only one in the New World to record the use of medicinal herbs They did so in codices or catalogues that showed drawings of the plants
Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Codices containing information about Aztec medicinal plants were considered heretical, and burned by Spanish missionaries

Codices
z

A few missionaries had the vision of recuperating at least a small portion of this knowledge and reconstructing two codices One was written, both in Latin and Nhuatl (the Aztec language) and known as the De La CruzBadiano Codex It became the first bilingual publication of the New World (1552)

Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Codices
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 Mxico Desconocido magazine

Mxicos great biodiversity

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
z

Mexico has a rich diversity of medicinal plants

Map courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Some medicinal plants may have a mystical significance in Mexican traditional healing practices

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

The peyote cactus has been used for centuries in various religious ceremonies

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Medicinal plants are used in various types of healing practices throughout Mexico

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Traditional healers view some plants as important spiritual entities

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Drying herbs in the traditional way

The Marketplace
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
z

Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Aztec marketplace

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido magazine

Modern market in Mexico City

Medicinal Plants in Mexico

Traditional Uses and Applications

Achiote, Annato
Bixa orellana - Bixaceae
z Measles

(ground seeds applied to bath) z Buccal sores (seeds steeped in water, as rinse) z Condiment and food coloring

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Ahuehuete, Sabino
Taxodium mucronatum - Taxodiaceae
z Burns

(bark decoction, poultice)

z Diarrhea

(leaf infusion, as tea)

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Ahuehuete tree

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Ail, Birch
Alnus arguta - Betulaceae
z Fever z Inflammation z As

a poultice to wash wounds

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Alamo Platanus lindeliana

Platanaceae
z Colds

(ground leaves with oil applied topically as poultice)

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z Fractures z Headache

Ans Tagetes lucida Cav.

Asteraeceae
z Carminative,

digestive z Inflammatory, fever z Empacho(Stomach upset) z Avoid in pregnancy z Unrelated to European or Star Anise

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Al, Indigo Indigofera suffruticosa

Fabaceae
z Urinary

problems

z Constipation z Mange z Syphilis

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Anona Anona reticulata

Anonaceae
z Boils

(leaf infusion as a wash) (bark decoction as tea)

z Diarrhea

rnica del pas, Falsa rnica

Heterotheca inuloides - Asteraceae
z z z z z

Bruises, contusions (topically) 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

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Azafrn, Zacatlaxcale
Cuscuta spp.- Convolvulaceae
z Parasitic

plant

z Purgative

internally
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z Fright

(susto) (plant decoction, as bath)

Baja tripa
Rivina humilis - Phytolaccaceae
z Aire

(Wind) z Espanto (Fright) z Rash (prickly heat) z Branch decoction applied externally as body wash

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Baiborn
Kallstroema grandiflora - Zygophyllaceae
z Fatigue z Fever z Body

pains

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z Mange

Barbasco, Cabeza de negro

Dioscorea spp. - Dioscoreaceae
z Body

aches z Menstrual problems z Progesterone source z Rheumatism, aches (rhizome steeped in alcohol, as a rub) z Male contraceptive

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Barquilla
Rhoeo discolor - Commelinaceae
z Fungal

infections: roasted leaves, topical

z Vaginal

infections: leaf infusion douche z Measles (leaf infusion, orally)

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Batamote Baccharis glutinosa

Asteraceae
z Alopecia z Stomach z Mange z Foot

ache
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odor

Bayetilla Hamelia patens

Rubiaceae
z Anti

inflammatory z Boils (stem decoction, externally) z Pain relief (topical) z Yellow fever (leaf infusion as tea)

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Berro Nasturtium acuaticum

Brassicaceae
z Goiter

(iodide )

z Kidney

pain z Stomach inflammation (raw)

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z Tuberculosis

(infusion)

Bretnica Lepechinia caulescens

Lamiaceae
z Diarrhea z Dysentery

(stem
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decoction)
z Gastritis

(topical)

Cabezona, Chapz
Helenium mexicanum - Asteraceae Colds (pulverized flowerheads as stornutatories; to promote sneezing) z Toxic if ingested z Avoid use
z

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Cacaloxchitl Plumeria rubra

Apocynaceae External application: z Gonorrhea z Warts z Wounds (minor) z Drastic purgative z Avoid internally

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Cahuayote Gonolobus niger

Asclepiadaceae
z Gonorrhea

(root

decoction) z Efficacy unknown z Avoid during pregnancy and lactation

Calaguala Phlebodium aureum

Polypodiaceae
z Tea

made from stem z Diarrhea z Gastric ulcers z Kidney pain z Efficacy unknown z Avoid in pregnancy

Calderona Galphimia glauca

Malpighiaceae
z Boils

(external application) z Vaginal infections z Wounds z Avoid in pregnancy

Candelilla Euphorbia antisyphillitica

Euphorbiaceae
z Used

against venereal disease (syphilis) z Cathartic (purgative) z Toothache z Headache z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation

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Capuln Prunus serotina

Rosaceae
z Coughs

(children) z Decoction of stems and leaves taken as infusion (tea)

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Cedro Cedrela odorata

Meliaceae
z Colic z Epilepsy

(bark decoction as tea) z Fever z Gall bladder z Toothache (leaf tea)

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Ceiba Ceiba pentandra

Bombacaceae
z Anti z Boils z Insect

inflammatory

bites z Mange z Bark and leaf decoctions as poultices

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Chabacal Salvia lavanduloides

Lamiaceae
z Bronchitis z Colds z Coughs z Avoid

in pregnancy

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Chaca Bursera simaruba

Burseraceae
z Fever

(leaf infusion) z Leaves boiled in water to make a bath z Leaves applied on soles of feet

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Chalahuite Inga jinicuil

Fabaceae
z Dysentery

(bark decoction) z Stomach upset (empacho) bark decoction z Flower infusion taken for tachycardia (latido)

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Chaparro amargoso
Castela tortuosa-Simaroubiaceae
z Amoebic z Avoid

dysentery

during pregnancy/ lactation in northern Mxico

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z Shrublands

Chapuliztle Dodonaea viscosa

Sapindaceae
z Colic

(leaf infusion) z Fever (bark decoction) z Gout ( leaf infusion) z Ground leaves applied to scabs and wounds z Scalp problems z Venereal disease

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Chaya Cnidoscolus chayamansa

Euphorbiaceae
z Boils

(latex topically) z Diabetes

z Kidney z Obesity

pain (capsules)
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Chicalote Argemone mexicana,

A. sanguinea Papaveraceae
z Papaverine z hypnotic z Post-part. z Toothache z Alopecia

bleeding

(hair loss) z Kidney pain z Seeds are toxic

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Chicozapote Achras zapota

Zapotaceae
z

Ingestion of more than 10 seeds can be toxic

Chicura Franseria ambrosioides

Asteraceae
z Promotes

labor z Given near parturition z External application to treat scorpion stings z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation

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Chigisa Pseudobombax ellipticum

Bombacaceae
z Asthma z Colds z Coughs

flower infusion taken as tea

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Chipiln Crotalaria incana

Fabaceae
z Urinary

bladder coldness contain cyanogenic glycosides contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids in pregnancy

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z May

z May

z Avoid

Cholla, Cardenche, Coyonoxtle

Opuntia imbricata - Cactaceae
z Tea

taken to treat asthma used against diarrhea (plant contains tannins)

z Tea

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Chote,Turi Parmentiera edulis

Bignoniaceae
z Diabetes

as tea) z Earache z Urinary problems (fruit and branch infusion) z Respiratory ailments (flower, fruit and root infusion)

(root decoction

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Codo de fraile, Yyotl

Thevetia thevetioides - Apocynaceae
z Boils

and hemorrhoids (topically) z Weight loss(seed) z Alkaloids (thevetine) z Very toxic, avoid all internal use

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Cojn de toro
Stemmadenia donnell-smithi Apocynaceae
z Bruises,

wounds (leaf decoction externally as poultice) bites (latex applied topically) internally

z Mosquito

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z Avoid

Cola de caballo Equisetum arvense

Equisetaceae
z Arthritis

and rheumatism z Diuretic z Urinary problems z Only the sterile branches are used z Some species are thiaminase inhibitors

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Cola de venado
Erigeron karwinskianus -Asteraceae
z Dysentery z Kidney

pain (stem decoction) (wash)

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z Sores

Contrayerba
Dorstenia contrajerba - Moraceae
z Snakebite z Vaginal

hemorrhage
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z Venereal

disease (root decoction as tea)

Cordn de San Antonio

Hyptis stellulata - Lamiaceae
z Earache z Indigestion z Pasmo z Rheumatism z Skin
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infections z Avoid in pregnancy

Cordon de San Francisco

Salvia leucantha - Lamiaceae
z Fright z To

(espanto)

reconstitute women after birth (leaf infusion) z Avoid in pregnancy

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Coshui, Mamelique, Crameria

Krameria grayi - Krameriaceae
z Diarrhea z Skin

antiseptic z Diabetes z Alopecia z Loose teeth

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Cuachalalate o Axocopaque
Amphypteringium adstringens Julianaceae
z Circulatory

ailments, mixed with sassparilla z Gastritis, peptic ulcers z Vaginal infections (topical) z Bark decoction or maceration

Cuatecomate,Guaje
Crescentia cujete - Bignoniaceae
z Alopecia z Diarrhea

(leaf infusion) (leaf infusion) (fruit pulp)

z Expectorant z Liver

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ailments (fruit pulp)

Cucharitas Acacia cochliacantha

Fabaceae
z Diarrhea z Stomach z Urinary

ache
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bladder

Cuitlacoche Ustilago maydis

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

Culantrillo de pozo, Palmita

Adiantum capillus-veneris Pteridaceae
z Leaf

infusion as a tea z Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation) z Fright (susto) z Kidney stones z May cause abortion z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation

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Cundeamor Momordica charantia

Cucurbitaceae
z Diabetes

(fruit and

leaves z Anthelminthic z Fever, Colic and headache z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation

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Damiana Turnera diffusa

Turneraceae
z Tea

taken to increase libido, treat sterility, as a tonic for fatigue z For colds and body aches z May have antidepressant action z Avoid in pregnancy

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Diente de len, Dandelion

Taraxacum officinale - Asteraceae
z Tea

made from plant is used to treat gall bladder and liver ailments, anorexia z Digestive, diuretic z Externally, latex removes warts (irritating)

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Doradilla, Resurrection plant

Selaginella lepidophylla Selaginellaceae
z Diuretic z Gall

bladder stones z Kidney pain z Urinary problems z Combined with horsetail (Equisetum)

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Encino, Oak
Quercus spp. - Fagaceae
z Astringent

(tannins) z Bleeding gums z Loose teeth z Skin antiseptic z Toothache z Bark decoction

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Epazote, Wormseed
Chenopodium ambrosioides Chenopodiaceae z Tea is taken to treat stomach ailments and expel worms z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and children z Leaves are safe as condiment, but oil is neurotoxic

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Epazote de Zorrillo
C. graveolens - Chenopodiaceae
z Anthelminthic z Aire

(flatulence) z Coughs (expectorant) z Fright (espanto) z Stomach and liver ailments z Potentially toxic, avoid use

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Espinosilla Loeselia mexicana

Polemoniaceae External application for: z Alopecia z Dandruff z Erysipelas z Aerial parts as infusion (tea)

Estafiate Artemisia mexicana

Asteraceae
z Tea

made from leaves and stems is used to treat stomachache, diarrhea, worms and rheumatism z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Avoid in patients with nervous disorders

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Estropajo, Luffa
Luffa aegyptica - Cucurbitaceae
z Gercua

(leaf infusion as bath) (mashed fruit in water, as hair rinse)

z Lice

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Flor de manita, Macpalxchitl

Chirantodendron pentadactylon Sterculiaceae
z Tea

from flowers Nerves

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z Anxiety,

z Cardiac

ailments

Flor de tila, Linden Tila spp.

Tilaceae
z Anxiety z Insomnia z

Nervous disorders
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z Flower

infusion

Garaona Castilleja tenuiflora

Scrophulariaceae
z Alopecia z Blood z Gall

purifier
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bladder infections

z Vaginal

Girasol, Sunflower
Helianthus annuus - Asteraceae
z Headache z Nervous

disorders (anxiety)
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z Scabs

Gobernadora,Gumis, Creosote
bush, Chaparral Larrea tridentata Zygophyllaceae
z Athletes

foot z Cancer (antioxidant) z Foot odor z Fungal skin infection z Kidney stones z Urinary infections z Venereal disease

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Creosote bush, Chaparral

z NDGA,

active principle radical scavenger

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z Free

z Antifungal

compounds

Creosote bush, Chaparral

z Non-concentrated

infusion internally z Concentrated forms not recommended z Pills and capsules may cause hepatic and renal damage

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Creosote bush, Chaparral

z Avoid

prolonged treatments z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation and small children z Topical applications may cause irritation

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Gordolobo, Everlasting
Gnaphalium spp. - Asteraceae
z Similar

properties as unrelated Mullein (Verbascum spp.) z Respiratory problems, asthma, coughs z Lumbago (externally) z Avoid in pregnancy

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Guaco
Mikania spp. - Asteraceae
z Stomach

ulcers, liver

problems z Worms z Antidote vs. snakebites (unproven, avoid) z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation

Guamchil Pithecellobium dulce

Fabaceae
z Diarrhea z Upset

stomach

z Coughs z Buccal

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sores

Guanacastle
Enterolobium cyclocarpum - Fabaceae
z Red

caterpillar sting (bark decoction applied directly to affected area)

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Guayaba, Guava
Psidium guava - Myrtaceae
z Diarrhea

(Tannins) upset
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z Stomach z Excellent

source of Vitamin C

Guayacn, Palo Santo

Guaiacum sanctum - Zygophyllaceae
z Coughs

(flowers

as tea) z Dysentery z Diaphoretic z Gastric ulcers z Syphilis z Tuberculosis

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Guzuma Guazuma ulmifolia

Sterculiaceae
z Diarrhea z Fever z Antiemetic
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z The

fruits contain mucilage

Guzuma Guazuma tomentosa

Sterculiaceae
z Leprosy z Elephantiasis z Syphilis z Skin

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infections

Helecho macho, Male fern

Dryopteris filix-mas
z Anthelminthic,

obsolete in modern phytotherapy z May cause abortion z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Avoid in children

Hierba de la vbora
Zorrica spp. - Asteraceae
z Taken

as tea to treat Pasmo Antidote vs. poisoning

z Anti-inflammatory

(topical application)

Hierba del cncer

Cuphea aequipetala - Lythraceae
z Antiseptic z Boils,

skin tumors z Diarrhea (leaf infusion) z Wounds z Avoid in pregnancy z Avoid in children

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Hierba del carbonero

Baccharis sarothroides - Asteraceae
z Colds z Muscular

pain
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Hierba del golpe

Oenothera rosea - Onagraceae
z Bruises z Colic z Skin

(topically)

(infusion)
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inflammation (poultice, topically)

Hierba del pollo (Matlli)

Commelina stans - Commelinaceae
z Arthritis z Colic z To

(topically)

treat diarrhea, the leaves are blended with water, lime juice and honey) z Hemostatic; fresh crushed leaves applied directly to cut

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Hierba del zorrillo

Petiveria alliacea - Phytolaccaceae
z Fever z Seizures z Weakness z Avoid

in small children, pregnancy and lactation

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Hierba de San Francisco

Heimia salicifolia - Lithraceae
z Bruises,

inflammation (ground leaves applied topically as plaster)

z Cold

bladder (branch decoction as bath)

Hierba Luisa Aloysia triphylla

Verbenaceae
Tea from leaves is taken to treat anxiety, diarrhea and stomach upset z Leaves have citrus-like aroma
z

Higuerilla, Ricino, Castor oil,

Palma christi)
Ricinus communis - Euphorbiaceae
z Fever,

headache z Purgative z Seeds very poisonous z Lectins cause hemagglutination of red blood cells z Avoid internal use

Hoja santa Tlanepaquelite, Momo

Piper sanctum - Piperaceae
z Tea

from stems and leaves is used to treat susto or fright

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Huinlo, Chirhui
Acacia cuchliacanta - Fabaceae
z Colds z Diarrhea z Gastritis z Typhoid

fever z Urinary problems

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Huizache Acacia farnesiana

Fabaceae
z Diabetes z Diarrhea z Dyspepsia (flowers) z Fever z Kidney

pain z Tuberculosis (root)

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Hule Castilleja elastica Moraceae

z Dislocations z Fractures z Latex

applied topically z Vilmas(bandages)

Flor de Jamaica, Hibiscus, Roselle

Hibiscus sabdariffa - Malvaceae
z May

lower cholesterol

z Diuretic z Fever z Laxative,

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digestive

Lgrimas de San Pedro, Jobs

tears
Coix lachryma-jobi - Poaceae
z

Tea from the leaves is used to treat diabetes

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Madroo Arbutus xalapensis

Ericaceae
z Kidney z Leaf

pain

decoction as tea

z Ingested z Avoid

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in pregnancy

Magnolia Magnolia grandiflora

Magnoliaceae
z

Cardiac problems

z Nerves z Seizures z Avoid

in pregnancy

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Maguey, Century plant

Agave spp. Agavaceae
z The

leaf juice is taken internally to treat constipation and other digestive ailments z Aguamiel (sugar extract from root) used against gonorrhea

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Mangle rojo Rhizophora mangle

Rhizphoraceae
z Diabetes z Dysentery z Kidney

pain (bark decoction as tea)

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Mango Mangifera indica

Anacardiaceae
z Originally

from

Asia z Mouth infections (seed decoction as mouthwash) z Stomachache (bark decoction as tea)

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Mata ratn, Cocote

Gliricidia sepium - Fabaceae
z Fever z Stomach z Leaves

upset
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are used as rodent poison z Avoid internally

Mezquite Prosopis juliflora

Fabaceae
z Boils

(leaves)

z Conjunctivitis

(leaves)
z

Stomach upset

Muicle Justicia spicigera

Acanthaceae
z Tea

from aerial parts taken to treat constipation

z Mange

(branch decoction applied topically)

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z Rash

Nanche Byrsonima crassifolia

Malpighiaceae
z Astringent

action used to treat diarrhea z Fungal infections of the gums z Loose teeth

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Nopal, Prickly pear cactus

Opuntia spp. Cactaceae
z Stems

eaten raw or cooked to treat diabetes z Stems contain mucilage and fiber z Pulverized cactus capsules taken to lower cholesterol z Digestive z Obesity (fiber)

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Nopal duraznillo
Opuntia leucotricha - Cactaceae
z Stem

eaten to treat diabetes

z Diarrhea
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z Urinary

problems

Ocote colorado Pinus patula

Pinaceae
z Sore

throat (hoarseness) z Branch decoction taken as tea

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z Colds

Palo bobo Ipomoea arborescens

Convolvulaceae Cardiac problems z Fever z Spleen z Madness z Toxic to ruminants (causes emaciation)
z

Palo de Brasil
Haematoxylon brasiletto - Fabaceae
z Tea

made from branches taken to treat depression, fever and urinary problems (infections, kidney stones)

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Palo de Campeche, Tinto

Haematoxylon campechianum - Fabaceae
z Branch

decoction taken as tea to treat: z Diarrhea and dysentery z Venereal disease (blood purifier)
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Palo fierro Olneya tesota

Fabaceae
z Asthma z Fever z Loose

teeth
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z Stomach

ache

Palo mulato Bursera grandifolia

Burseraceae
zA

decoction of the bark is taken as tea against fever

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Palo mulato Bursera grandifolia

Burseraceae
z Headache z Stomachache

(branch decoction applied topically as poultice)

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Papayo
Carica papaya - Caricaceae
z Asthma

(boiled leaves as plaster) z Digestive (pulp) z Insect bite (latex) z Meat tenderizer (seeds) z Seeds used to expel worms

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Pata de vaca Bauhinia divaricata

Fabaceae Asthma z Cesido z Dysentery z Empacho z Icterus z Worms
z

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Pegarropa, Pegajosa
Mentziella hispida -Loasaceae
z

Venereal disease

z Depurative z Purgative
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z Avoid

in pregnancy

Pica - pica
Mucuna pruriens - Fabaceae
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

Pingica Ehretia tinifolia

Boraginaceae
z Leaves

and fruits used to make tea for treatment of urinary ailments

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Pioncillo Jatropha curcas

Euphorbiaceae
z Abortifacient z Candidiasis

(oral) z Oral infections z Purgative (latex and roasted seeds) z Potentially toxic z Avoid internally

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Pirl, Arbol del Per

Schinus molle - Anacardiaceae
z Tea

made from leaves is used to treat diverse ailments including: colic, conjunctivitis, coughs, gonorrhea, rheumatism and tuberculosis z The plant can be a skin allergen

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Pitahaya
Lemaireocereus thurberi - Cactaceae
z Tea

made from the plant used to treat diabetes (unproven treatment)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

z Snakebite

z Stings

Pltano, Banana Musa sapientum

Musaceae
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 carbohydrates

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Pongolote Cochliospermum vitifolium

Cochlospermaceae
z Enemas

(bark decoction) for digestive problems and body cleansing

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Pun Muntingia calabura

Eleocarpaceae
zA

decoction made from the plant is used externally to treat measles, urticaria and skin infections
Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Quelite, Bledo, Lambs quarters

Amaranthus hybridus - Amaranthaceae
z Tea

made from the plant is used to treat diarrhea and intestinal hemorrhages z Leaves are edible, but may contain oxalates z Externally, the leaves are applied as a poultice to treat skin infections

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Quiebra muelas, Milkweed

Asclepias curassavica - Asclepiadaceae
z Boils

(leaf poultice applied topically) (latex applied topically)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

z Toothache

z Avoid

internal use, potentially toxic

Ramn Brosimum alicastrum

Moraceae
z Boils

(bark decoction as tea or wash) z Coughs z Kidney pain (leaf decoction as tea)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Roble Tabebuia rosea

Bignoniaceae
z Callous

feet (bark applied topically) z Fever z Rheumatism (branch decoction applied as bath)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Salvia, Sage
Salvia spp. - Lamiaceae
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

Salvia, Sage
z Essential

oil is neurotoxic, avoid in epilepsy z Avoid in patients with high blood pressure z Avoid in small children

Sangre de drago, Sangregrado

Jatropha dioica - Euphorbiaceae Applied topically for alopecia and dandruff z Branch decoction as rinse or mouthwash z Avoid internally z Drastic purgative
z

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Sangre de grado
Croton draco - Euphorbiaceae
z Latex

from the branch and fruit applied topically to treat candidiasis and stomatitis z Avoid internally z Drastic purgative

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Saco, Mexican elder

Sambucus mexicana - Caprifoliaceae
z Arthritis

and rheumatism (leavesexternally) z Coughs, bronchitis (flowers-infusion) z Expectorant z Whooping cough

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Saco, Elder
z Unripe

berries may cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting) bark, root or berries in small children, as well as during pregnancy and lactation
Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid

Svila, Zbila, Aloe

Aloe spp. - Liliaceae
z Gel

is emollient and used topically for skin cuts, infections and burns (usually safe) z Latex is purgative, used to treat constipation and diabetes, but may cause toxicity

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Svila, Zbila, Aloe

z Leaf

preparations may cause uterine contractions, avoid in pregnancy and lactation internally, it may be irritating to intestine and kidneys

z Avoid

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tabachn Caesalpinia pulcherrima

Fabaceae
z Flower

infusion (tea) is used to treat coughs and a condition known as Oguo

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tabaco coyote, Wild tobacco

Nicotiana glauca - Solanaceae
z Arthritis

(topical) z Asthma (smoked) z Fever (leaves applied on

stomach)
z Headache (leaves

applied on temples)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tabaco coyote, T. cimarron

z Contains

nicotine z Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, and in small children

Taray Eysenhardtia polystachya

Leguminosae
z The

bark is used as a tea (diuretic)

Tscate, Juniper
Juniperus deppeana - Pinaceae
z Neuralgia

rheumatism (topical) z Nocturnal enuresis in children z Avoid in pregnancy and lactation z Avoid internal use

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tatachinole
Tournefortia hartwegiana - Boraginaceae
zA

decoction from the roots is taken to treat coughs, kidney stones, parasites and rheumatism
Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tepescohuite
Mimosa tenuiflora - Fabaceae
z Burns,

wounds (pulverized bark, applied topically) ulcers (bark decoction as tea)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

z Gastritis,

Texcalama, Amate
Ficus petiolaris - Moraceae
z Chest

pains z Emetic (root) z Fractures (topical) z Cathartic z Stomatitis (latex) z Emetic (root) z Avoid in pregnancy

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tlachichinole Kohleria deppeana

Gesneraciae
zA

tea made from the branches is taken to treat gastrointestinal inflammation and kidney pain
Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tlatlancuaya Irisine celosia

Amaranthaceae
z z z z z z

Anti inflammatory Diaphoretic Fever Insect bites Typhoid fever Typhus

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Toje Phoradendron californicum

Loranthaceae
z Used

to treat boils, diarrhea and venereal disease z Potentially toxic z Avoid in pregnancy z May cause hypotension

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Toloache Datura stramonium

Solanaceae
z Asthma

( smoked as cigarrettes) z Applied topically for skin boils z Hallucinogenic (seeds) z Rheumatism (topical) z Used in ethnic rituals z Toxic, Avoid Use

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Tronador Kalanchoe pinnata

Crassulaceae
z z z Anti

African plant

inflammatory z Burns (topically)

Tulipn Hibiscus sinensis

Malvaceae
z Ascedio z

Candidiasis (thrush)

Tulipn de monte
Malvaviscus arboreus - Malvaceae
z

Dysentery bladder ailments

z Gall

z Stomachache

Tumbavaqueros Ipomoea stans

Convolvulaceae
z Epilepsy z Hepatitis z Nervousness z Root
Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

decoction

Ua de gato Martynia annua

Martyniaceae
z Epilepsy

(seed decoction) z Unrelated to plant from South America with the same common name (Uncaria tomentosa)

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Vara Blanca
Croton fragilis - Euphorbiaceae
z

Diarrhea

z Purgative z Stomach z Malaria

upset

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

(bark decoction as tea)

Wereke, Guareque
Ibervillea sonorae - Cucurbitaceae
z The

dried root is used to make a decoction to treat diabetes root is applied to skin as an antiseptic in pregnancy and lactation

z Pulverized

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid

Zapo, Lomboy blanco

Jatropha cinerea - Euphorbiaceae
z Scabs

and skin infections (leaf decoction) z Candidiasis (rinse) z Sap purgative z Avoid in pregnancy

Zapote blanco, White sapota

Casimiroa edulis - Rutaceae
zA

decoction of the seeds and leaves is used to treat insomnia and high blood pressure z Seeds are hypnotic; toxic in large doses z Avoid in pregnancy

Photo courtesy of Mexico Desconocido Magazine

Zacatechichi Calea zacatechichi

Asteraceae
z

Tea from the leaves promotes appetite and is also used to treat fever and stomach ailments, such as colic, and diarrhea

Photo Courtesy of Mxico Desconocido Magazine

Zoapatle, Chuatlpatli
z Tea

from the leaves is used to promote labor and as a contraceptive in pregnancy and lactation (potentially toxic to both mother and child) internally

z Avoid

Photo by Dr. Robert Bye, from Plantas de Mxico al Mundo

z Avoid

Selected Bibliography on Mexican Plants

Adame J, Adame H. Plantas Curativas del Noreste Mexicano. Monterrey, Mexico: Ediciones Castillo; 2000. Aguilar A. Plantas Medicinales del Centro de Mxico. Mxico City: Guas Prcticas Mxico 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. Chvez M, Franco I, Gonzlez M. Tlatenco: Tradicin 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. Gonzlez M. Plantas Medicinales del Noreste de Mxico. Monterrey, Mexico: IMSS-Vitro; 1998. Gonzlez-Stuart A. Plantas Txicas Para El Ganado. Mexico City: Editorial Limusa; 1990. Johnson D, Moreno S, Lopez R. Compendio Fitoqumico de La Medicina Tradicional Herbolaria de Sonora. Hermosillo: Universidad de Sonora; 1996. Linares E, Flores B, Bye R. Seleccin de Plantas Medicinales de Mxico. Mexico City: Limusa; 1994.

Selected Bibliography on Mexican Plants

Lozoya, X. Plantas Medicinales Prehispnicas. Arqueologia Mexicana 2000: 7 (39) 14-21. Lozoya, X. Tziuhpatli: Herba Officinalis. Mexico City: SSA-UNAM;1999. Martnez M. Las Plantas Medicinales de Mxico. Mexico City: Editorial Botas; 1989. Vzquez, R Plantas Medicinales del Noroeste de Mxico. Mexico City: Guas Mxico 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.