Guaco plant: The guaco is a plant native to America that has white flowers and a woody stem. It grows in subtropical Bolivian soils. Its medicinal properties are mainly extracted from the leaves, which are recognized by the Brazilian Ministry of Health.
Due to its bitter taste, it cannot be used to flavor foods. It is preferably consumed in infusions, syrup or relaxing bath. Guaco is recommended to treat skin problems, diuretic disorders, body aches and diseases of the respiratory system. It also relieves fever caused by different conditions. Its main properties are anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiparasitic and vasoconstrictor.
People who ingest this plant in excess may suffer from vomiting. Also, patients who have liver problems and coagulation disorders should not consume guaco without medical advice. Its intake is also discouraged in pregnant women and babies. As for interactions, scientific research has shown that this plant negatively interacts with some anticoagulant treatments. Therefore, this combination should be avoided.
Medical uses
Flu
The scalped guaco is a variation of the guaco that has a coating on the leaves in the form of fine hairs. This plant is characterized by its expectorant properties.
It is suggested to consume it to relieve the symptoms of the flu, colds and flu. In addition, it calms cough and congestion. However, it does not act as an antibiotic medicine.
bites
Guaco is known as a powerful ancient antidote to cure snake bites. Although there is no scientific research that has proven this effect, many natural doctors in our country confer this important virtue on it.
rheumatism
People who have rheumatism can resort to guaco, since its active ingredients give it anti-rheumatic properties. In addition, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic to relieve pain. It can also be used to relieve arthritis, contractures and discomfort caused by lumbago or sciatica. In these cases, you should apply it as a poultice or enjoy a relaxing bath.
Drop
Gout attacks are often very painful and prevent many activities. Because guaco helps eliminate the accumulation of uric acid through urine, it is an excellent natural remedy to prevent gout. In addition, its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects reduce pain.
Diarrhea
Guaco infusions help stop episodes of diarrhea. They also reduce colic and regulate intestinal transit. When the loosening is caused by parasites, it is suggested to consume this plant, since it has antiparasitic properties.
Urinary infection
The guaco allows to eliminate the toxins present in urination. It also has diuretic virtues, which increases the amount of urine expelled. If you suffer from a cold in the bladder or suffer from a urinary tract infection, it is recommended to drink infusions of this plant. On the other hand, women who have vaginal mycoses can apply guaco poultice to destroy fungi, since it contains antiseptic properties.
How is guaco used?
Until now, the use of guaco as a medicinal supplement is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Even so, there are several plant-based remedies that are used as adjuvants to improve health, especially in cases of flu, cold, joint pain or skin fungus. How to prepare them?
guaco tea
Tea is the most common way to prepare guaco. The drink has been used since ancient times as a natural remedy to reduce cough, congestion, body pain and stomach discomfort. However, its consumption should be moderate and only in specific cases.
Ingredients
- 10 grams of guaco leaves.
- 1/2 liter of water (500 milliliters).
Preparation
Incorporate the guaco leaves in half a liter of water and let them boil for 10 minutes, over low heat.
After this time, strain the drink and let it rest.
Consume 2 cups a day.
guaco tincture
It can be helpful in reducing the itching and irritation caused by some ringworms. However, before applying it in its entirety, it is convenient to do a small test to verify that it does not cause allergies or adverse effects.
Ingredients
- 100 grams of crushed guaco leaves.
- 300 milliliters of alcohol at 70º.
Preparation
Pour the guaco leaves into a dark jar with the 300 milliliters of alcohol.
Put the container in a cool, airy place and let it sit for a couple of weeks.
Shake the mixture once a day. Then, when the recommended time has elapsed, strain the product.
Use the tincture to put compresses on the affected area.
guaco syrup
Guaco syrup is often used to reduce symptoms such as cough and throat irritation. However, since it contains sugar, its consumption should be moderate. It is not recommended for people with diabetes.
Ingredients
- 100 grams of guaco leaves.
- 1 liter of water.
- 200 grams of sugar.
Preparation
Put the guaco leaves in a liter of water and let them boil until the liquid is reduced by half.
Then add the sugar and put on low heat.
Stir constantly until you get the consistency of a syrup.
Consume 2 tablespoons a day.
Side effects
Side effects of guaco include bleeding, increased heart rate, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Guaco contains coumarin that can aggravate clinical pictures where there is shortness of breath and cough, in people with allergies to this component.
Contraindications
Guaco is contraindicated in people with allergies to this plant, with liver problems, who use anticoagulants, in children under 1 year of age, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.