Medicinal plants: BOLDO
Scientific name: Peumus boldus
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| Fuente: plantsystematic.org |
The common name boldo and species name boldus is thought to derive from boldu, the name given this plant by the Araucan tribe of Chile. The genus name, Peumus, is thought to derive from peumo, the name given to a similar tree by the mapuche tribe of Chile. It is frost-hardy, an grows best in sandy, acid soil in a sunny position. Propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, may also be grown from seed sown in spring.
An aromatic evergreen tree growing for 19- 23 ft, it is the sole species of its genus. It has light to grey-green, leathery leaves, rich in balsamic volatile oil. Greenish male and female flowers appear in late summer, borne on separate trees.
The medicinal properties of this small, shrubby tree from Chile were first investigated in Europe by a French doctor in 1869. It was discovered to be effective in stimulating the liver and expelling intestinal worms. In its country of origin it was formerly taken as a tonic tea and digestive, prescribed as a substitute for quinine and made into a powder to take as snuff. Boldo increases gastric secretions, aids in the elimination of uric acid, and improves circulation. It also functions as a liver tonic.
Today it is used in the treatment of cystitis, gallbladder pain, gallstone, gonorrhea, hepatitis, jaundice, obesity, and urinary tract infections.
It is native to Chile, introduced elsewhere. Occurs on sunny slopes of the Andes mountains.
Leaves-dried for use in infusions and other medicinal preparations; bark-dried for extracts.
Uses medicinal:
It has mainly been used for liver complaints, urinary infections and to expel intestinal worms. Extracts are included in commercial and pharmaceutical products.
Topically, Boldo can be prepared as a compress or used as a bath herb to relieve arthritis pain.
Contraindications:
The powdered leaf can cause sneezing. Large doses can cause vomiting. Avoid during pregnancy, while nursing, and in cases of bile duct obstruction or acute cases of gastrointestinal irritation. Use only as needed, and not as a daily supplement.
