Benefits and contraindications of carqueja (chirca melosa)

Benefits and contraindications of carqueja / sweet chirca / carqueja contraindications / carqueja properties / carqueja tea Carqueja (also called sweet chirca) is a native plant found throughout South America and has become known for its diuretic power.

In addition, several studies have shown that this plant has antioxidant activity, as well as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antihepatotoxic, and antimutagenic properties.

The antioxidant activity of the charge it has been linked to its various phenolic compounds, including the polyphenols quercetin and rutin, in addition to phenolic acids, such as caffeoylquinic acids.

The scientific literature cites the work of Pio Correa (1931) as the first written record on carqueja and its healing properties.

However, after a deep literary investigation, we arrive at what we believe to be the oldest written record on the carqueja, it is the manuscript of Pedro de Montenegro (1710), a Jesuit priest who was a missionary in Paraguay and had intense contact with the Guarani Indians. Let’s see, below, the benefits and contraindications of the carqueja

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Benefits and contraindications of the carqueja

carqueja properties

Improves the functions of the digestive system. It is full of substances considered digestive, so it is an ally of our stomach and especially our intestines. The plant protects the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestine, prevents ulcers and facilitates the digestion process, as well as having a natural pain reliever.

antioxidant action Another great benefit that deserves attention is its antioxidant action. The plant has this type of action due to the presence of flavonoids in its composition. Therefore, consuming tea or capsules is a great way to fight disease-causing free radicals and speed up the aging process.

cholesterol levels Reduced levels of bad cholesterol It has saponins in its composition, doubly beneficial substances, since they have anti-inflammatory and also oxidative action. One of the main consequences of consuming the plant is the reduction of cholesterol levels in the body.

There are many doctors and nutritionists who recommend that carqueja tea be taken in combination with statins, to more effectively and quickly reduce blood cholesterol levels.

Helps in the fight against diabetes. It is a great ally for those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, especially type 2. This is because the plant reduces the absorption of carbohydrates ingested in the diet. It is important to remember that a high carbohydrate diet is not a good idea.

It is common for the consumption of carqueja tea to be recommended in the daily life of diabetic patients to help keep their blood sugar levels low.

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Tea of ​​carqueja: Recipe

Now that you know all the benefits of carqueja, it is time to include this medicinal herb in your routine. Whether it’s to speed up weight loss, reduce bloating, or even provide general health benefits, this tea is worth going for daily consumption.

Ingredients

250 ml of water;
1 tablespoon of dried carqueja leaves;

Preparation

Add all the ingredients in a teapot and lead to the fire;
After boiling, count 5 minutes and hang up;
Strain and then drink.
To get the full benefits, drink up to 3 cups a day.

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Carqueja contraindications and side effects

Although it is a medicinal plant, the use of carqueja can bring some unwanted side effects. However, it is important to note that these effects usually occur when the herb is consumed in excess.

Among the possible side effects that carqueja can bring to its consumers are:

decreased immunity;
Arterial hypotension, that is, a drop in pressure;
Headaches;
Diarrhea;
Flatulence;
Anxiety;
Concern.

As it is a plant with specific characteristics, its consumption has quite predetermined contraindications.

The consumption of carqueja tea or capsules is contraindicated for pregnant or lactating women, people suffering from arterial hypertension and taking drugs to control blood pressure, people who have hypoglycemia and patients using drugs that inhibit the synthesis of carqueja. of proteins.

It is important to remember that even if it is a medicinal plant, its consumption must occur in a pleasant and appropriate way, in order to avoid any type of side effect. With common sense it is possible to reap all the benefits of this incredible plant.

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