Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years, transmitted from generation to generation through the knowledge of native peoples. Mexico has more than 5,000 medicinal herbs that have been explored by shamans as well as those experiencing their effects through use in daily life. The knowledge of native peoples has become an enormous resource for people today who are seeking alternative ways of treating and curing ailments. Many botanical herbs form the base of pharmaceutical drugs currently used in Western allopathic medicine.
Cilantro
Cilantro is one of the most common herbs used in Mexico, where it is used as a flavoring for salads, salsas and many meat dishes. The leaves of the plant are called cilantro and the seeds are known as coriander, which is also a delicious condiment. Cilantro contains antibacterial properties as well as vitamin C. It is used to help rid the body of excess mercury, as well as for improving liver function, helping with digestion and soothing stomach cramps. When the leaves are infused in warm water, it makes an excellent mouthwash for inflamed gums.
Epazote
Originating from the Aztec word "epazotl," epazote is a condiment for cooking as well as a medicinal herb. It was brought to Europe from Mexico in the 17th century where it was used in the manner of the Mexicans to help remove intestinal parasites. When steeped in milk, it makes a pungent tea that also helps soothe the stomach. When added to beans as they are cooking, it helps prevent flatulence.
Yerbanis
Also known as Mexican marigold mint, the herb is found in the mountainous areas of Central and Southern Mexico and has an aromatic smell much like that of anise. Yerbanis is used to calm stomachaches, help overcome colds, sooth nerves and staunch the symptoms of hangovers. It is also used in religious ceremonies performed by Mexican shamans.
Mexican Oregano
Called "oregano de la sierra," or oregano of the mountains, Mexican oregano is actually a verbena, which is a part of the mint family. With its strong flavor due to the presence of the essential oil carvacol, it is not as sweet as the oregano grown in Mediterranean areas. Mexican oregano is considered an antibacterial and antiviral and in this regard, it is used to cure viral infections, induce sweating, treat pulmonary problems and soothe the pain of headaches. Taking a bath in Mexican oregano helps to alleviate aching joints.
Achiote
Achiote is a tropical shrub with red flowers and inedible fruit. The seeds of the fruit, however, are used to make a paste once they are separated from the fruit's pulp. Achiote was a common medicinal plant for the Aztecs and Mayans who used it as an aphrodisiac, as well as to cure fevers and cancer. Native Mexicans use the paste, which they call "recado," as a food flavoring. Besides the seeds, the leaves, bark, roots and shoots are known for their healing properties. The leaves and shoots are used to alleviate the symptoms of hepatitis and dysentery as well as to protect the liver in general. They also help to reduce cholesterol levels. The leaves and seeds are used for stomach irritation and also as a treatment for snakebite and ridding the body of parasites. The leaves are used to increase urine flow in cases of cystitis or other kidney dysfunctions. Because of its high antioxidant content, achiote is considered an anti-tumor compound as well as a medicinal substance that boosts the immune system. It also helps to lower blood sugar levels, thus helping those with diabetes.
Agave
Agave is a cactus with fleshy leaves and a pineapple-shaped interior. The leaves make a sticky nectar that is made into a syrup containing a fructose called "inulin." Inulin helps to encourage the growth of friendly intestinal bacteria, making the plant effective for digestive health. Due to its low glycemic index, agave is often used to replace sugar. Agave was used by the Aztecs to heal wounds, as it contains antibacterial elements. Research done at the University of Guadalajara in Mexico shows that agave is also effective in reducing cholesterol and in assisting with fat absorption in the intestine.
Chaya
According to the National Institute of Nutrition in Mexico City, chaya helps to improve blood circulation, digestion and vision. A leafy shrub that is sometimes called "tree spinach," it is also used to reduce inflammation in the veins, helping to reduce and sooth hemorrhoids. Chaya also helps direct calcium to the bones, works as a decongestant for the lungs, soothes respiratory ailments and improves brain function. Because of its high iron content, it also can prevent anemia.
Nopal
Otherwise known as a prickly pear cactus, uses of nopal in medicinal lore dates back to the Aztecs from A.D. 900 to 1521. When the stems of the cactus are peeled, the flesh is used to heal wounds. Other curative properties include its function as a tonic for the heart and helping heal patients with diabetes, high cholesterol, gastrointestinal problems, viral infections and skin ailments. According to the online journal Healthier Life, nopal is especially effective in regulating blood sugar levels and weight loss.
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