Medicinal plants are very beneficial in terms of their therapeutic benefits in all their parts such as the roots, bark, fruits, flowers and leaves, whose content contains interesting chemical combinations that favor human health , as is the case with boldo.
In the following article, we provide you with important information about what boldo is and the benefits it has for human health.
What is boldo?
The boldo is a medicinal shrub, which can become a tree of medium height, reaching more than 5 meters in height.
Its scientific name is Peumus boldus Molina and it comes from Chile but it can be cultivated in other latitudes, since it grows in different geographical conditions , it adapts to places with low humidity and stony soils. (1)
Note: The leaves of this plant are green 3-7 cm long, ovate or oblong and can be obtained in various commercial presentations such as dry extract in the form of capsules, essential oil , among others.
What is boldo used for?
Due to its phytochemical components, boldo offers the following benefits for human health:
1. Boosts the immune system
The boldo leaf has a phytochemical potential, which favors the work of the immune system against pathogenic agents and microorganisms. In fact, scientific medicine has described that it has activity against bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes, Micrococcus sp. and Candida sp. (two)
To highlight: Scientific data suggests that this property is due to its antioxidant action , due to its boldine content. (3)
2. Lowers cholesterol levels
Thanks to the leaves of this medicinal plant and the antioxidant properties of its chemical compounds, boldo can regulate blood cholesterol levels and also prevents cell damage caused by lipid peroxidation, which affects the structure of polyunsaturated fatty acids. (4)
3. Improves digestive, liver and biliary functions
The main benefits of boldo for the body are for the liver and gallbladder .
This is how its consumption prevents liver failure and stimulates the production of bile in the liver, preventing the formation of gallstones, as well as preventing liver congestion, cirrhosis, and chronic hepatitis. (5)
You should know: For digestive processes, it prevents the formation and accumulation of gases, decreasing colic and abdominal inflammation. (6)
4. Eliminates toxic substances and protects against free radicals
Since the boldo alkaloids have a hepatoprotective function and protect this organ from various conditions, boldo favors the detoxifying function of the liver , including the elimination of uric acid, thus promoting the general health of the organism.
In addition, the antioxidant properties of its components increase the action against free radicals, avoiding oxidative damage, due to its content of boldine and phenolic compounds. (7)
5. Reduces muscle pain
The content of the phytochemical compounds of the boldo leaves cause an analgesic and soothing effect for the muscles, headaches and some joint pains.
Note: To achieve this effect, the consumption of boldo in tea or infusions is recommended, at least 3 cups a day.
6. Combat respiratory conditions
Due to the properties of its essential oils, boldo has been recommended by traditional medicine to treat colds thanks to its expectorant properties.
In addition, its antioxidant action protects the body from some diseases of the upper respiratory tract , such as colds and even runny nose or nasal congestion.
7. Promotes sleep
As previously mentioned, the phytochemical components of the boldo leaf have an analgesic and relaxing effect , so when consumed as a tea or infusion before going to sleep, it can cause a restful sleep.
8. Contributes to weight loss
Traditional medicine has described that this plant can contribute to weight loss because it has a laxative and diuretic effect, achieving the excessive elimination of fluids and toxins from the body.
In addition, with good liver function and antioxidant effect, boldo protects the body from the accumulation of fat on the walls of the veins and arteries and the formation of excessive adipose tissue under the skin.
What side effects does boldo have?
As with many foods, excessive consumption can cause some side effects in certain people such as allergic reactions , vomiting and diarrhea , as well as having an anesthetic or hypnotic effect .
Other recommendations before consuming the extract of these medicinal leaves is to avoid their intake as much as possible in people who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, or in patients with severe kidney or liver problems.
How to consume boldo?
Here is one of the simplest and most practical ways to consume boldo leaves and take advantage of their beneficial effects:
Bold tea
Boldo tea is one of the most popular ways to consume the phytochemical compounds of this plant and that is why we will explain how to prepare it below:
Ingredients
- dried boldo leaves
- Hot water
Preparation and consumption
- Place the water in a container to boil.
- Once the water starts to boil, remove from the heat and add the boldo leaves.
- Let stand for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and allow to cool before drinking.
- If you want you can sweeten with artificial sweetener.
- You can drink 2 or three cups of this drink a day for 5 days to alleviate various conditions.
Key takeaways
- Boldo is a plant whose leaves have a therapeutic effect on human health.
- Boldo contains a combination of chemical elements that make it a fabulous antioxidant.
- Boldo has antibacterial properties and improves liver and biliary function.
- Before starting any treatment with boldo, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.