The study of the properties of medicinal plants has been hard work that has allowed science to understand their chemical composition and the health benefits they entail.

But many of these plants are located in jungle areas that are difficult to access and that in principle had only been used by local aborigines, such as the guaco (plant) .

Due to our interest in disclosing important information, we present the following article where we explain what the guaco plant is and what its benefits are for health.

What is the guaco plant?

The guaco plant is considered a healing plant used by traditional medicine, in multiple therapeutic uses. It is a climbing , woody plant, of the vine type, with the scientific name Mikania glomerata , which developed in areas of the tropical jungle of Central and South America.

It has a very strong characteristic odor,   described by popular culture as an odor that can cause snakes to stupor and has also been used to treat snake bites.

Note: Some studies describe that the content of phytochemicals responsible for the therapeutic properties of this plant are found in its leaves and flowers.

What is the guaco plant used for?

Due to the properties described by traditional and scientific medicine , the guaco plant offers the following health benefits:

1. Fights respiratory diseases

In the herbal medicine of some countries like Brazil, the guaco plant has been used to improve some respiratory diseases such as bronchitis , asthma, flu or colds .

Likewise, this plant has been attributed expectorant, bronchodilator and even cough-soothing properties.

2. Control allergies

One of the main symptoms of allergies is inflammation , especially in tissues and mucous membranes.

In this context, another of the properties that have been given to the guaco plant thanks to its content of phytochemicals such as coumarins and kaurenoic acid , is anti-inflammatory, especially in the species Mikania micrantha .

3. Improves gastrointestinal conditions

Another of the benefits described by the indigenous people who have used this medicinal plant is its use to treat certain gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and intestinal inflammation, through the use of infusions of its leaves and flowers.

4. Fight skin infections

Other uses of the guaco plant is that it also serves to alleviate certain skin conditions caused by some bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes .

To highlight: Some studies have shown the potential of the guaco plant to combat some types of skin infections .

5. Reduces pain and inflammation from rheumatism and neuralgia

We have already mentioned that some of the species of the guaco plant have anti-inflammatory properties , contained in some of its phytochemicals such as coumarins and kaurenoic acid.

You should know: In this case, the guaco plant has been used to treat pain caused by rheumatic conditions in the joints or inflammation of the nerves called neuralgia.

How is guaco tea prepared?

To prepare guaco tea and treat some respiratory , gastrointestinal or rheumatic conditions, you just have to follow this simple indication:

Ingredients

  • guaco leaves
  • Hot water

Preparation and consumption

  • Bring water to boil for a few minutes.
  • Place the guaco leaves inside the container and leave for a few minutes.
  • Then the drink should be removed from the heat and left to rest.
  • Take a cup of this tea three times a day, until you get the desired effects.

What contraindications does the guaco plant have?

The preparation and intake of remedies prepared with this plant is contraindicated in people who suffer from allergies to contact with any of the parts of this plant.

Important: The intake of the guaco plant is not recommended in patients with liver diseases or who are under anticoagulant treatment, since there are no studies on its safety .

On the other hand, its use is not recommended in children under one year of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Key takeaways

  • The guaco plant is considered curative by traditional and scientific medicine.
  • The leaves of the guaco plant can treat some diseases of the respiratory tract.
  • The guaco plant is also used to treat some conditions in the digestive system.
  • Its use is contraindicated in patients with certain pathologies , in pregnant women and in children under 1 year of age.

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