Made from the dried leaves of Peumus boldus, a Chilean shrub, boldo tea is a traditional South American herbal remedy. It is frequently planted in rural and suburban backyards in its native region. Boldo's woodsy fragrance has also led to its use as an aromatic seasoning similar to bay leaves, according to the "Encyclopedia of Spices." Before using boldo tea for therapeutic purposes, consult a physician.
Antioxidant Effects
Boldo's active constituent is the alkaloid known as boldine. Found in plants, alkaloids are naturally-occurring substances that often have biologically-active properties. Boldine is one of the most powerful antioxidants yet discovered, according to a 2006 review in the journal "Chemico-Biological Interactions." Antioxidants help shield cells from the deleterious effects of free radicals, unstable molecules that have been implicated in chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Traditional Uses
According to a Chilean legend, the benefits of boldo were discovered when a shepherd observed that his flock of sheep were healthier and less prone to liver disease after grazing on the boldo plant. Chilean herbalists use boldo as a remedy for health conditions such as liver problems, gallbladder disease, intestinal worms and cystitis. In Peru, boldo is known as a diuretic, as well as a liver and gallbladder treatment. Boldo is employed in Brazil for a wide range of ailments, including liver problems, flatulence, constipation, insomnia, rheumatic disorders and poor appetite.
Scientific Research
The scientific research on boldo and its biologically active constituent, boldine, is preliminary but promising. A 2006 article in "Planta Medica" discussed its potential utility in regulating blood sugar in diabetes. Boldo also may help inhibit tumor growth, reduce inflammation, protect against atherosclerosis, serve as a muscle relaxer and balance neurotransmitters, according to O'Brien. Consult with a qualified health care practitioner before using boldo tea or any other herb.
Warnings
Boldo tea should be used under the supervision of a qualified health care practitioner familiar with the use of herbs. Despite its health benefits, boldo contains significant quantities of ascaridole, a toxic compound. Overdoses of boldo have reportedly led to overexcitement, cramps, exaggerated reflexes and convulsions, according to the American Pharmaceutical Association's "Practical Guide to Natural Medicines." Although boldo is often used for therapeutic purposes, South American herbalists treat it with great respect and do not recommend casual use. Pregnant women should completely avoid boldo.
References
- "Chemico-Biological Interactions"; Boldine and its Antioxidant or Health-Promoting Properties; P. O'Brien, et al; January 2006
- "Planta Medica"; Antihyperglycemic Effect of Aporphines and their Derivatives in Normal and Diabetic Rats; T.C. Chi, et al; October 2006
- "Practical Guide to Natural Medicines"; Andrea Peirce; 1999
- "The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs"; Leslie Taylor
- Encyclopedia of Spices: Boldo - Boldina
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