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Abuta grandifolia (Mart.) Sandwith.
Menispermaceae. "Abuta", "Motelo sanango", "Trompetero sacha". The decoction of
the stems and roots mixed with wild bee honey is used to treat sterile women.
Root decoction used for post-menstrual hemorrhages.
Ananas comosus L. Bromeliaceae. "Piña",
"Piña negra", "Huacamayo piña", "Gebero piña", "Garrafón piña", "Lagarto piña",
"Jambo piña", "Pineapple". . A refreshing drink is made from
the pericarp decoction, which is also added to "chicha" to improve its taste.
Preserves made with the fruit. The juice is astringent and anthelmintic. In the
Philippines the fiber yields a very fine white thread (SOU). "Tikunas" grate the
green fuits in water and take in the first or second month of pregnancy as
abortifacient. Amazonian Brazilians take the fruit for dyspeptic flatulence
(SAR). In Piura, practicing food "farmacy", the fruit is ingested for
blenorrhagia, kidney stones, rheumatism, and worms.
Annona cherimolia Mill. Annonaceae. "Chirimolia", "Custard
apple". Fruit edible. Chopped leaves applied to the nape of the neck
for headache; leaf decoction drunk for dysentery; crushed seeds used to kill
parasites (FEO).
Annona muricata L. Annonaceae. "Guanábana", "Chirimoya",
"Chirimoya brasilera", "Soursop". Cultivated. Fruit edible
fresh or in ice creams. Leaf decoction used for catarrh in Piura; crushed seed
to kill parasites (FEO). Colonists from Risaralda use the plant for rachitic
children. Bark, roots and leaves are used in teas for diabetes; also used as a
sedative and antispasmodic (RVM). "Créoles" use the decoction of the leaves and
bark as a sedative, yet heart tonic. They use A. montana the
same way (GMJ). Tapajos natives use the leaf tea for the liver (BDS). Elsewhere
used for chills, colds, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, flu, gallbladder
attacks, hypertension, insomnia, kidneys, nervousness, palpitations,
pediculosis, ringworm, sores and internal ulcers (DAW).
Annona squamosa L. Annonaceae. "Anona",
"Sweetsop". Cultivated. Fruit edible (RVM). Elsewhere used for
abortion, bruises, carbuncles, chancre, cold, diarrhea, dyspepsia, fever,
puerperium, rheumatism, spasm, syphilis, tumors, ulcers and venereal disease;
considered astringent, insecticide, pectoral, pediculicide, purgative,
soporific, tonic and vermifuge (DAW). Brazilians use the leaves in cough syrup
(BDS). Like so many Annonaceae with seeds used to control insects and lice, this
contains pesticidal acetogenins (JAD).
Arrabidaea chica (HBK) Verlot. Bignoniaceae. "Puca panga".
Fresh leaves used in decoction alone or mixed with the fruits of
Renealmia alpinia to dye fibers of Astrocaryum
chambira or to make tattoos. This dye is also used to treat skin
infections and herpes (RAR). Leaves also used as anti-inflammatory. "Chami" from
Risaralda extract the red tint to dye baskets (RVM). "Tikuna" use leaf infusion
for conjunctivitis (SAR). Achual "Jivaros" chew the leaves with clay to blacken
the teeth (SAR). Tapajos residents use leaf tea for anemia, blood disorders,
inflammation.
Banisteriopsis caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) Morton.
Malpighiaceae. "Ayahuasca", "Soul vine", "Spirit
vine", "Yagé". In some cases semicultivated by witches, shamans and
ayahuasqueros. Stems used by native farmers and city folk as a purge. The
"ayahuasca" is an hallucinogenic drink, much used in the old days in rituals.
Now it is used for medicinal purposes and divination. It is said not only to
cure all kinds of sickness, but to help in diagnosis, divination, and telepathy.
It is also laxative and emetic. To prepare the "purge" it is recommended that
the stem collector (the brujo) abstain from sex for at least a week before
cutting the stems, and in the day of the gathering he should go without eating.
This should be done either Tuesdays or Fridays in the morning. They have to cut
and grind the stems and boil them until the liquid becomes dark; then pass
through a sieve; once cool, it is ready to be taken. They generally use one
species, sometimes mixed with other species of Banisteriopsis, as
B. longialata, and occasionally with other plants, such as:
Psychotria viridis, P. carthaginensis,
Nicotiana tabacum, Brugmansia suaveolens,
Malouetia tamarquina, etc. Tabernaemontana sp.,
Brunfelsia, sp., Datura suaveolens, Iochroma
fuchsioides, Juanulloa, cactus, ferns, etc. Contains alkaloids
such as harmaline, tetrahydroharmine, harmol, harminic-acid methyl-ester,
harminic acid, acetyl-norharmine, N-norharmine, N-oxyharmine, harmalinic acid,
ketotetrahydronorharmine (RVM).
Bauhinia guianensis Aubl. Fabaceae. "Escalera de mono",
"Monkey ladder". Used as an ornamental and for handicrafts
(RVM). Amazonian "Tukuna" use stem for kidney diseases (SAR). "Taiwanos"
consider the seed diuretic (SAR). The root is boiled with "sarabatuco" to treat
ameba in Amazonian Brazil (BDS). Considered ichthyotoxic (RAR).
Bixa orellana L. Bixaceae. "Achote",
"Achiote amarillo". Cultivated. Natives mainly use it for food coloring and to
decorate their bodies. There are experimental plots for the extraction of bixin.
In Piura, the shoot decoction is considered antidysenteric, antiseptic,
antivenereal, aphrodisiac, astringent, and febrifugal (FEO). The foliage is used
to treat skin problems and hepatitis; also used as aphrodisiac, antidysenteric,
and antipyretic. Considered good for the digestive system, and for treatment of
liver disease. Very effective as a gargle for tonsilitis (RVM). "Chinatecas"
poultice leaves on cuts to avoid scars (RVM). People from Cojedes use the flower
infusion as purge and to avoid phlegm in newborn babies. "Kayapo" massage
stomachs of women in labor with the leaves. "Waunana" use to dye demijohns and
baskets. Bark yields a gum similar to gum arabic. Fiber used as cordage.
"Kayapo" use to tint to the body (RVM). Dye said to be an antidote for HCN
(SAR). Seeds believed to be expectorant, the roots, digestive (SAR), antitussive
(BDS). Around Explorama, fresh leaf stalks, devoid of blades, are inserted into
a glass of water; the mucilage that forms is applied in conjunctivitis. (Fig.
36)
Brugmansia aurea Lagerhein. Solanaceae. "Toé", "Maricahua",
"Floripondio", "Angels trumpet". Cultivated. Ornamental used as
an hallucinogen, for telepathy and divinations. Some people smoke the leaves and
the flowers in small quantities, as a substitute for marijuana. Brujos make a
purge for dogs to make them good hunting dogs (EXP). Leaf decoction externally
used for dermatitis and orchitis; chopped leaves antispasmodic, decongestant
(FEO). The main alkaloid in Brugmansia is scopolamine, also found are:
norscopolamine, atropine, meteloidine, noratropine,
3alpha,6beta-ditigloyloxytropane-7beta-ol, tropine, 3alpha-tigloyloxytropane
RVM.
Brunfelsia chiricaspi Plowman. Solanaceae. "Chiricaspi",
"Chiric sanango". Used as an additive in the preparation of hallucinogenic
beverages (RVM). The hallucination has serious side effects, among them: chills,
cold sweats, heavy tongue, itchiness, nausea, stomachache, temporary insanity,
tingling, and vomiting (SAR). Used by the Indians for fever (SAR).
Calycophyllum spruceanum (Benth.) Hook.
Rubiaceae. "Capirona". The wood, used for contruction, is a favorite for
firewood and charcoal. Natives boil l kg of bark in l0 liters of water to obtain
4 liters of medicine from which they drink l50 ml 3 times a day for 3
consecutive months for diabetes (RVM). Peruvians use the bark against "sarna
negra", an arachnid that lives under the skin. Powdered bark is applied to
mycoses (SAR). Considered contraceptive, emollient, vulnerary.
Capsicum annuum L. Solanaceae. "Pimiento", "Pucunucho",
"Sweet pepper". Cultivated. Natives believe that to become a
good blowgun shooter, one must chew and eat slowly a half dozen fruit before
breakfast for 8 days. Studies report that this species is hallucinogenic, but
they don't use it for this purpose. Curanderos use it in a maceration mixed with
aguardiente to give as a purge for dogs to make them good hunting dogs. This
species and C. frutescens are present in this maceration and
also Nicotiana tabacum, Brunfelsia
grandiflora ssp. schultesii and Brugmansia spp.
(RVM). "Jivaro" apply the fruit directly to toothache (SAR). In Piura, the fruit
infusion is considered antipyretic, tonic, and vasoregulatory; the decoction
used as a gargle for sore throat or pharyngitis; the tincture is applied to
bugbites, mange, hemorrhoids, and rheumatism (FEO).
Capsicum conicum Mey. Solanaceae. "Carolito",* "Coralito"*.
Cultivated. Considered one of the strongest chillies.
Carapa guianensis Aubl. Meliaceae. "Andiroba", "Requia",
"Brazilian mahogany". An excellent wood for carpentry,
comparable with the wood from Cedrela odorata and
Swietenia macrophylla. The bitter bark infusion is believed febrifuge and
vermifuge (SAR), also a tonic. Perhaps useful in herpes (RAR). Infusion used to
wash dermatoses and sores (SAR). Seeds yield an oil, with the consistency of
lard, used to coat wood to protect it from insects (SOU). Brazilians
sell seed oil as antiinflammatory and antiarthritic (RVM). Also used in the soap
industry. Fruit oil ingested for cough in Brazil (BDS). The "Wayãpi", the
"Palikur", and the "Créoles" use it to remove ticks from their heads, also for
Schongastia guianensis, which gets in the skin. Native
Americans trust the oil as an emollient and antiinflammatory for skin rash
(GMJ).
Carica papaya L. Caricaceae.
"Papaya", "Pawpaw". Cultivated. Green fruit
eaten cooked; ripe, eaten fresh or in juices. A dozen seed are swallowed as a
vermifuge. For constipation, eat half a papaya. Rutter mentions use of papaya
for acarosis, enteritis, and tachycardia (RAR). "Chocó" mix the latex with honey
as vermifuge. Leaf infusion cardiotonic. "Cuna" use cooked roots for
indigestion. Tikuna eat grated immature fruit with 2-6 aspirin, inducing
abortion in about two days (SAR). In Piura, the leaf tea is considered digestive
and hypotensive; chopped fruits are used as antiseptic (FEO). Brazilians make
flower tea for heart and liver (BDS). Knowing that meat tenderizer (based on
papaya's papain) had been used for sea nettle stings, JAD applied papaya juice
to the rash Don Segundo induced by flagellating the wrist with stinging nettle.
JAD had a reaction. Chymopapain has been used to dissolve herniated disks, but 1
in 4,000 people exposed to this treatment die of anaphylactic shock. Recent news
has suggested that too much papaya might induce prostate cancer (JAD).
Cassia reticulata Willd. Fabaceae. "Retama". Sometimes
planted as an ornamental. Flower infusion used for liver diseases, acid
indigestion, upset stomach and kidney inflammation. Leaves and flowers contain
antibiotics such as rhein (cassic acid), which is antibacterial against
gram-positive and acid-resistant bacteria. The antibiotics reduce swellings of
hepatic and renal sickness. Also used to treat venereal and skin diseases (LAE,
RVM). Leaves used in baths for gastritis and ulcers (VDF). Used around Explorama
for ringworm (JAD). "Boras" burn the leaves to repel sandfly Lutzomyia
sp. "Manta blanca", vector of leishmaniasis. Used as a purge by the "Chocó". The
Piria "Cuna" in the town of Piria (Panama) use it for stomachaches. Infusion of
leaves and flowers used by the "Waunana" for stomachaches (RVM). "Witotos" use
the roots in a febrifugal tea (SAR). "Tukanos" use leaves as insect repellents
in clothes and hammocks (SAR). "Achuanos" value for fungal infections (SAR).
Sometimes used for cardiac edema (NIC).
Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. Bombacaceae. "Ceiba",
"Kapok", "Lupuna", "Lupuna blanca". Wood mainly used for
plywood exports. Because it grows along the rivers with easy access, it has been
overexploited to the point that it is disappearing. In the old days, trees
served as guideposts for river navigators. "Wayãpi" associate this tree with
jungle spirits. Bark decoction used in baths for fever (GMJ). Branch decoction
diuretic and emetic (FEO). The cotton is used with blowguns (JAD).
Cephaelis ipecacuanha (Brot.) A.Rich. Rubiaceae. "Ipecac" Colombians
chew the root as an insect repellent and amebicide. Crude extracts still find
their way into millions or prescriptions a year in the US. Found in many US
medicine chests to cause vomiting in children who have swallowed poison. Poison
control centers should be consulted, though, as vomitting is counterindicated
with some poisons. Emetine has elsewhere proved out against ameba, bilharzia,
cancer, and guinea worms (JAD).
Chondrodendron tomentosum R.&P. Menispermaceae.
"Ampihuasca", "Curaré". Some natives, crush and cook the roots
and stems, adding other plants and venomous animals, mixing until it becomes a
light syrup; they call this decoction "ampi", or "curaré", which they use on the
tip of their arrows and darts. The active ingredient in "curaré" is
D-tubocurarine, actually used in medicine. Brazilians consider the root
diuretic, emmenagogue, and febrifuge (SAR), using it internally for madness and
dropsy, externally for bruises. Used for edema, fever, kidney stones, and
orchitis (RAR).
Cissampelos pareira L. Menispermaceae. "Imchich masha",
"Barbasco". "Palikur" use the leaf poultice as an analgesic (GMJ). Seeds used
for snakebite; diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, piscicide, POISON, for venereal
disease (RAR). Contains tetrandrine, which is analgesic, antiinflammatory, and
febrifuge.
Copaifera reticulata Ducke. Fabaceae. "Copaiba",
"Copal". On Rio Solimoes, resin used as a cicatrizant, for
gonorrhea, psoriasis, and sores (SAR); in Piura used for catarrh, syphilis, and
urinary incontinence (FEO). Plotkin (1993) notes that the resin (copal) is used
to coat tubules exposed by the dentist drill. Once employed in the US as
disinfectant, diuretic, laxative, and stimulant, as well as in cosmetics and
soaps (MJP).
Costus guanaiensis Rusby var. guanaiensis.
Costaceae. "Caña agria" "Cañagre". Used to reduce internal fever, cough,
bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, stomatitis and tonsilitis; "Cuna" use the
leaf decoction for stomachache (RVM). Maxwell chewed the cane when she had a
cough (NIC).
Croton lechleri Muell.-Arg. Euphorbiaceae.
"Sangre de drago", "Sangre de grado", "Dragon's blood". The
latex is used to heal wounds, and for vaginal baths before childbirth. It is
also recommended for intestinal and stomach ulcers (RVM). It yields the
hemostatic sap that accelerates wound healing (NIC). For leucorrhea, fractures,
and piles (RAR).
Curarea tecunarum Barneby & Krukoff. Menispermaceae.
"Sacha ampihuasca", "Wild curaré". Sometimes used in
preparation of "curaré". Used as a male contraceptive. Tests in rats show a
decrease in testosterone levels (RVM). Ecuadorean "Waoranis" use it for
dermatoses and fungal infections.
Curcuma longa L. Zingiberaceae. "Guisador", "Azafran",
"Palillo", "Turmeric". Cultivated. Rhizome frequently used as
spice. Used for hepatitis. Rhizomes are crushed fresh and mixed with water. This
juice is taken one spoon for children and l to 2 for adults, once a day for l0
to l5 consecutive days for hepatitis. Some people bathe in this extract.
"Créoles" use it to treat injuries. Crushed rhizome, mixed with the leaves of
Siparuna guianensis and of Justicia
pectoralis, salt and rum, is poulticed on bruises on their backs.
(Decoction of the three plants, taken 3 times a day, adding to this 3 drops of
arnica tincture, and some sugar) (GMJ). The root contains at least 3
antiinflammatory compounds, cucurmin, feruloyl, 4-hydroxy-cinnamoyl methane, and
bis-14-hydroxy-cinnamoyl methane, dose dependent up to 30 mg/kg (Indian J. Mod.
Res. 75:574. 1982).
Cyclanthera pedata (L.) Schrad. Cucurbitaceae. "Caigua".
Cultivated. Fruit edible. It has various medicinal usages. The tea of the seeds
is well known for controlling high blood pressure (RVM). De Feo suggests that
the decoction of the epicarps is also antidiabetic (FEO).
Datura stramonium L. Solanaceae. "Chamico",
"Jimsonweed". Chopped leaves are applied to dermatitis, the
decoction used as an antiseptic in vaginitis (FEO).
Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. Fabaceae.
"Amor seco", "Beggar-lice", "Margarita". The plant infusion is
given to people who suffer from nervousness. It is also is used in baths to
treat vaginal infections. Because they believe this plant has magic powers, it
is given to the lover who has lost interest in his mate, to make him/her come
back. It is also used as a contraceptive (RVM). Rio Pastaza natives wash the
breast of dry mothers with the leaf tea (SAR).
Dioscorea bulbifera L. Dioscoreaceae. "Ñati papa", "huayra
papa", "Air potato". Cultivated. The tubers are edible. The
crushed raw pulp is poulticed onto boils (RVM). Tubers considered alexeteric,
antidotal, antiinflammatory, diuretic (RVM), hemostatic, even POISONOUS, and
used for cancer, dysentery, fever, goiter, hernia, piles, sores, syphilis and
tumors (DAW).
Dipteryx odorata Aubl. Fabaceae. "Charapilla del
murciélago", "Shihuahuaco". The wood is used for bridges, dormers, posts, etc.
(RVM). Seeds soaked in rum are used by the "Créoles" for snakebite, shampoos,
contusions and rheumatism. The "Wayãpi" use the bark decoction as antipyretic
baths, and the "Palikur" use it as fortifying baths for infants and small
children (GMJ). Brazilians make a cough pill by balling up the crushed seed
(BDS). Elsewhere used as anticoagulant, antidyspeptic, antitussive, cardiotonic,
diaphoretic, febrifuge, fumigant, narcotic, stimulant and stomachic DAW. The
coumarin explains its anticoagulant activity (JAD).
Dracontium loretense Krause. Araceae. "Hierba del jergon",
"Jergón sacha", "Fer-de-lance". Tuber believed to help
snakebites perhaps on account of the snakeskin like mottling of the petiole.
Some people whip their feet and legs with the branches to repel snakes. The
corms are used to control and steady the hands. The roots are reported to be
edible (DAT).
Duroia hirsuta (Poepp. & Engl.) Schum. Rubiaceae.
"Huitillo del supay". These shrubs, associated with ants, grow in small
homogeneous stands called "Supay chacra" (Devil's fields). Other plant species
with ant symbioses: Cecropia spp., Cordia nodosa,
Toccoca spp., and Triplaris spp. The soil around
Duroia is usually free of weeds, possibly because of the ants. Gentry
and Blaney (pers. comm.) think it may be due to secretions or micro-organisms
associated with the ants that prevent the growing of weeds and other plants. The
forked stakes are occasionally used in construction. Rural people, superstitious
about the "Supay chacra", avoid walking nearby. Some rural Colombians chew the
fruits to prevent dental caries (RVM). "Waoranis" rub the ant pheromones inside
their cheeks for oral aphthae (SAR). Putumayo natives bind a bark strip on the
arm, both staining and scarring the area (SAR).
Duroia paraensis Ducke. Rubiaceae. "Pampa remo caspi". Wood
for beams and decks (RVM).
Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. Asteraceae. "Huanguilla", "Naparo
cimarron", "Shobi isa sheta", "Naparo cimarron". Around Pucallpa, leaf
maceration used for headache (VDF). In Brazil the plant is used as an
antiasthmatic and as a depurative. "Créoles" rub the leaf decoction on children
for skin blemishes. It is also used for albuminuria (GMJ). Folk remedy elsewhere
for catarrh, copremia, cough, dyspepsia, elephantiasis, enterorrhagia, headache,
hemorrhage, hepatitis, jaundice, lumbago, marasmus, pertussis, splenitis,
toothache, and vertigo. Also considered estrogenic and insecticidal (DAW). Being
seriously studied as a remedy for snakebite (JAD). The active ingredient
wedelolactone is antiinflammatory and inhibits hemorrhage and the liberation of
creatinine kinase induced by snake venom (Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz 86
{Suppl.II}:203-5).
Erythrina fusca Lour. Fabaceae. "Amasisa", "Gallito",
"Swamp immortelle". Semicultivated. Soil conservation species,
adding nitrogen to the soil, used as ornamental and living fence. Bark decoction
used to wash infected wounds to treat fungal dermatoses. Effective in a skin
infection called "arco". Créoles" use the root decoction as a sudorific to
reduce fever caused by colds and malaria. Flowers in decoction regarded as
antitussive. "Palikur" use bark of trunk and roots mixed with the bark of
Parkia pendula to purify waters. Trunk bark put in hot water
and poulticed onto migraine headaches (GMJ). Hartwell mentions its use for
cancer (DAW).
Erythroxylum coca var. ipadu Plowman.
Erythroxylaceae. "Ipadú". Cultivated, especially by the Amazonian ethnic groups
of Peru, Brazil and Colombia. Cultivated by the "Boras" along the Rio
Yaguasyacu; the "chacchado" or "chaw" is enjoyed during parties, work or spare
time. To prepare leaves for chewing, they roast them slowly in a clay pot; they
fill their mouths with these leaves, occasionally adding ashes from
Cecropia leaves and other plants to give a strong and better flavor.
Chewing gives the sensation ofincreased energy and strength, leaving behind
fatigue and hunger; also leads to euphoria and good disposition. Leaf infusion
taken for gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and indigestion. Coca is
common in the religious and social life of Amazonian Peru (RVM). It is used in
diarrhea and to help the mother get rid of unwanted blood after childbirth
(RVM).
Ficus insipida Willd. var. insipida Moraceae.
"Ojé", "Doctor ojé". Locals take latex as vermifuge, drinking one cup fresh
mixed with orange juice, or with sugar cane juice. Those who take this purge
must avoid greasy and salty foods for a week; they can not receive direct sun,
and must avoid being seen by strangers to the family. Those not following this
diet become "overo" (with white skin pigmentation) (RVM). Pucallpa residents rub
the latex onto rheumatic inflammations (VDF). "Cuna" mix some latex with a liter
of water, and drink some of this mixture every other day to get rid of
intestinal parasites. In Piura, the leaf decoction is used for anemia and
tertian fever. Contains phyllosanthine, beta-amyrin or lupeol; lavandulol,
phyllanthol, and eloxanthine (AYA).
Genipa americana L. Rubiaceae. "Huito",
"Huitol", "Jagua", "Genipap". Fresh fruit eaten for bronchitis;
also used to make spiritous drinks. Cooking with brown sugar and aguardiente
makes a nice dessert. Green fruit used to dye clothes, also used to paint and
decorate their faces. Wood used in carpentry. Some people affirm that the fruit
decoction is abortifacient. Don Antonio Montero claims that the strained fruit
juice is good for cancer of the uterus. "Achuales" from Pastaza use the green
pericarp to extract decayed teeth. "Achuales" and peasants near Iquitos cook the
fruit and seeds; this decoction is use on baths for female genital
inflammations. It also reduces swelling of the respiratory mucous membranes.
"Kayapo" eat the fruit and use it to decorate their bodies. "Créoles" prepare a
cathartic and antidiarrheic decoction; the same decoction is used in poultice to
treat ulcers (GMJ). Haitians use for anemia, aphrodisia, blenorrhagia, diarrhea,
gonorrhea, hepatoses, and tumors (DAW). Brazilians express the fruit juice, let
stand overnight, and drink a small cup each day for 2 or 3 days for jaundice
(BDC). Contains: genipin, mannitol, tannin, methyl-ethers, caterine, hydantoin,
and tannic acid (RVM).
Gossypium barbadense L. Malvaceae.
"Algodón", "Cotton", "Algodonero". Cultivated in small amounts.
Ashes from dried buds used for diaper rash, and infected wounds. Leaf decoction
used as oxytocic. Flower decoction used for hepatitis (RVM). Flower buds are
used by the "Wayãpi" for earache. Leaves used for parasites, to eliminate
filaria (GMJ).
Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. Sterculiaceae. "Bolaina", "Atadijo",
"West Indian elm". Wood and bark for construction and ropes.
Ripe fruits have a strong honey scent. Some people even chew the fruit to
extract the sweet juice, spitting out the remainder. The macerated fruit mixed
with aguardiente is used to scent the "siricaipe" or "mapacho". In Jamaica the
bark is used to feed silkworms. Leaf decoction used for baldness, the bark
decoction for dysentery (SOU). Elsewhere regarded as astringent, depurative,
diaphoretic, emollient, pectoral, refrigerant, stomachic, styptic, and
sudorific; used for alopecia, asthma, bronchitis, dermatosis, diarrhea,
dysentery, elephantiasis, fever, hepatitis, leprosy, malaria, nephritis,
pulmonosis, and syphilis (DAW, RAR).
Heliotropium indicum L. Boraginaceae.
"Alacransillo", "Ihuin rao", "Ucullucui sacha". Around Pucallapa, used for
scorpion stings and rheumatism (VDF). Elsewhere regarded as abortifacient (and
ironically antiabortive), anodyne, astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient,
pectoral, stomachic, and vulnerary; used for aftosa, asthma, boils, bugbites,
calculus, cough, dermatoses, eczema, erysipelas, fever, furuncle, hyperuricemia,
inflammation, itch, kidney stones, laziness, leprosy, myalgia, nephritis,
ophthalmia, pharyngitis, rheumatism, scabies, sores, tumors, and warts (DAW).
Folk remedy for cancer that contains an antitumor compound, indicine-N-oxide
(JAD).
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Malvaceae. "Rosella",
Roselle". Brazilians poultice the leaves, mashed in salt and
alcohol, onto wounds, especially streptococcus-infected wounds (erysipelas),
which they call "isipla" on the Rio Tapajos (BDS). (They also apply the
red-spotted tree frog to such wounds.)
Hyptis capitata Jacq. Coll. Lamiaceae. "Cadillo cabezon".
Used in Ecuador for fungal infections (in Taiwan for asthma, colds, fever), the
aerial parts contain the antioxidant rosmarinic acid, oleanolic-acid, and
ursolic acid, stigmasterol, 10-epi-olguine, and
2,3-di(3',4'-methylenedioxybenzyl)-2-buten-4-olide, a lignan, and
apigenin-4',7'-dimethyl-ether. No alkaloids. Crude extracts showed little
fungicidal or insecticidal activity. (PC 30(8):2753-6. 1991).
Ilex guayusa Loes. Aquifoliaceae.
"Guayusa". Cultivated. In Piura the leaf decoction, considered antipyretic,
antirheumatic, antiseptic, and cholagogue, is used to treat venereal diseases
and female sterility (FEO). Leaf infusion used by the "Achuales" as an emetic.
Women get up early in the morning and prepare the infusion in the biggest pot
available; then everyone, including the children, drinks as much as they can,
and minutes later they all start vomiting. They do this to clean body and
spirit; bad things they have consumed the day before are eliminated, to start a
new day with clean body and renewed spirit (RVM). Amazonian Ecuadorians drink
guayusa to settle nerves and to prevent the ayahuasca hangover. Also believed
useful in aphrodisia, dysmenorrhea, fever, hepatosis, malaria, pregnancy,
stomach problems, syphilis, and perhaps other venereal diseases (SAR).
Iryanthera paraensis Huber. Myristicaceae. "Cumala
colorada". The fruit has edible arils (RVM). "Waorani" rub the inner bark and/or
resin onto fungal infections and mites (SAR).
Jacaranda copaia Aubl. ssp. spectabilis A. Gentry.
Bignoniaceae. "Asphingo", "Chichicara caspi", "Huamanzamana", "Ishtapi",
"Jacaranda", "Mami rao", "Meneco", "Paravisco", "Soliman". Wood
for light construction; to make furniture, pulp for paper, beams and decks
(RVM). Pucallpa natives use the leaf decoction for bronchitis, fever, rheumatism
(VDF). "Andoke" use crushed leaves as a cicatrizant on wounds (SAR). Rio Vaupes
natives use shredded bark in teas for colds and pneumonia, the sap for skin
infections (SAR). Elsewhere considered cathartic and emetic (DAW). Brazilians
believe burning the leaves and bark will keep illness and mosquitoes away. Also
used for sores, syphylis, and toothache (dental abscesses) (RAR). "Créoles" and
"Maroons" use it for leishmaniasis (MJP).
Jatropha gossypifolia L. Euphorbiaceae. "Piñón negro",
"Black physic nut". Cultivated. Latex used as a cicatrizant for
infected wounds and erysipelas (BDS). Seeds contain oil and have purgative and
emetic properties. The leaf decoction is used for venereal diseases as blood
purifier, and as an emetic for stomachache. The roots are used as antidote to
Hippomane mancinella and Guarea guara. The
latex is used for hemorrhoids and burns. The leaves are poulticed onto swellings
(PEA, SOU). Leaf tea used in baths for flu in Brazil (BDS). Mashed leaves
poulticed onto headache (RAR). "Créoles" use seed oil and leaf decoction as a
purge; "Palikur" and "Wayãpi" use against witchcraft (GMJ). Another example of a
reputedly POISONOUS folk cancer remedy containing compounds with antitumor
activity, e.g. jatrophone (CRC).
Laportea aestuans (L.) Chew. Urticaceae. "Ishanga blanca",
"White nettle". Commonly used to relieve rheumatic pains, and
to whip children when they misbehave. Used by the "Créoles" as a diuretic (GMJ).
Elsewhere used for burns, constipation, dysentery, rickets, and wounds (DAW).
Lonchocarpus nicou (Aubl.) DC. Fabaceae. "Barbasco",
"Cubé", "Rotenone". Semicultivated. Even though fishing with
barbasco or other ichthyotoxics is forbidden, this plant is still being used in
places (RVM). Brazil's "Timbo", at 3 ppm, eliminates piranha and their eggs in
15 minutes (MJB). "Ketchwa" and "Shuar" use in arrow POISONs (SAR). Brazilians
use L. urucu to kill leaf cutters (SAR).
Luffa operculata (L.) Cogn. Cucurbitaceae.
"Espongilla", "Sponge gourd". Dry fruit "skeleton", with a
sponge consistency, used for cellulitis, etc. Fruit mixed with Jatropha
curcas for sinusitis (RVM). Brazilians use the purgative fruit pulp for
dropsy (SAR), massaging rheumatism with bits of fruit in andiroba oil. Fruit tea
somewhat POISONOUS, ingested for rheumatism (BDS). Considered abortifacient
(RAR). Contains luffanine (SAR).
Maclura tinctoria (L.) Gaud. Moraceae. "Insira", "Insira
amarilla". Fruits edible. Wood occasionally used in carpentry. Cotton soaked in
the latex is used to relieve toothaches. An olive green dye is derived from the
plant. Because it contains phloroglucin and gallic acid, it is probably
antiseptic and astringent. Moringin is also antiseptic (AYA). This species also
works as diuretic and anti-venereal. Highly recommended for urinary infections
like blennorrhea. Colombians soak latex in 'cotton' of Ochroma
pyramidale or Ceiba samauma, using it as a filling.
Latex removes teeth, whether carious or healthy, without pain and bleeding
(NIC). Used by the "Chami" for lumber.Considered analgesic, diuretic, purgative;
used for cough, gout, pharyngitis, rheumatism, sore throat, syphilis (RAR).
Mammea americana L. Clusiaceae. "Mamey", "Mamee
apple". Fruit edible (JAD). In Amazonian Brazil, latex, bark and/or
fruit pulp are used for bugbites and parasitic infections (SAR). Seeds
considered antieczemic, febrifuge, insecticide, parasiticide, vermifuge (RAR).
Manihot esculenta Crantz. Euphorbiaceae.
"Cassava", "Mandioca", "Yuca". Cultivated. Many cultivars are morphologically
different, and vary in cyanide content. Some are quite POISONOUS (JAD)! The
edible roots yield farina, tapioca, and starch. Roots are used cooked, fried,
roasted, and in other culinary applications. Also used to make the popular
alcoholic refreshments, "mazatto", and "beshu", as well as a gelatinous
beverage. Only "cassaba brava", is used to make farina. A poultice of cassava
mixed with aguardiente, is used for chills and fever (RVM). "Créoles" apply to a
child's body a mixture of starch and rum to relieve cutaneous eruptions.
"Wayãpi" use leaves as a "remedy against the arrow", also in hemostatic
poultice. They use root juice in ritual baths to treat sterility in women. The
"Palikur" use the starch in poultice soaked in oil of Carapa sp. for
tender muscles (GMJ). "Makuna" use the yuca water to treat scabies (SAR).
"Witoto" used the leachings from cyanidiferous yuca as a fish POISON (SAR). A
cupful of sweet squeezings is given for diarrhea (SAR).
Mansoa alliacea (Lam.) A.Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Ajo sacha",
"Boens", "Nia boens", "Wild garlic". Alcoholic maceration of
the stem and roots used for rheumatism; leaf infusion used in baths to relieve
"manchiari" (a nervous state caused by terror or sudden shock), especially in
children. Also used as cleansing baths for bad luck. "Achuales" use the roots as
antirheumatic (RVM). "Créoles" use the stem decoction in baths, to relieve
fatigue and small needle-like cramps. "Palikur" use it to protect themselves
against the bad spirits (shades of Dracula?). "Wayãpi" use the decoction of
leaves and stems as antipyretic baths (GMJ), Tapajos natives for body aches, flu
(BDS). Contains alline, allicin, allyl-disulfoxide, diallyl sulfide, dimethyl
sulfide, divinyl sulfide, propylallyl disulfide (AYA), and two cytotoxic
naphthoquinones, 9-methoxy-alpha-lapachone and 4-hydroxy-9
methoxy-alpha-lapachone (Phytochemistry 31(3):1061. 1992).
Maytenus macrocarpa (R.&P.) Briq.
Celastraceae. "Chuchuasi", "Chuchasha", "Chuchuhuasi". Bark maceration
considered antidiarrheic, antiarthritic, used to regulate menstrual periods, for
upset stomach. Its main use is in a cordial! Bark decoction used for dysentery.
The wood is used for lumber (RVM). A shot of chuchuhuasi with aguardiente and
honey was given many ecotourists on departure from the Iquitos airport in 1991
(JAD). Aril of a brazilian species contained 8,500 ppm caffeine (SAR). "Siona"
boil stems in water for arthritis and rheumatism (SAR, under M.
laevis). Under the name M. ebenifolia, Maxwell mentions the
"chuchuhuasi" as an effective insect repellent. "Chuchuhuasi" is "probably the
best known of all jungle remedies, in Colombia as well as Peru.
Aphrodisiac...best of all antirheumatic medicines" (NIC).
Momordica charantia L. Cucurbitaceae.
"Papailla", "Balsam pear". Fruit edible cooked. Plant decoction
used for colic, and worms; infusion of fruit and flowers used for hepatitis.
Seed pulp mixed with lard as a suppurative (SOU). Considered vermicide,
stomachic, emmenagogue, and very effective in the expulsion of
Trichocephalos. Fruit decoction used as febrifuge and emetic (PEA).
Leaf decoction used by the "Cuna" for measles (RVM), by Brazilians for fever,
itch, and sores (BDS). Seeds and pericarp contain saponin glycosides which
produce elaterin and alkaloids, which causes vomiting and diarrhea (LAE). Leaf
infusion a common folk remedy for diabetes around Iquitos (AYA). TRAMIL cites it
as relatively POISONOUS (TRA). On the patent for Compound Q for AIDS, as a
source of momocharin. Also contains rosmarinic acid, with antiviral activity and
calceolarioside and verbascoside.
Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. Fabaceae. "Nescafé", "Nescao".
Cultivated. Toasted ground seeds are used as a coffee substitute (RVM).
Elsewhere regarded as anodyne, antidotal, aphrodisiac, diuretic, nervine,
resolvent, rubefacient, and vermifuge; used for anasarca, asthma, cancer,
cholera, cough, diarrhea, dogbite, dropsy, dysuria, insanity, mumps, pleuritis,
ringworm, snakebite, sores, syphilis, tumors, and worms (DAW). Interesting that
this reputedly aphrodisiac plant should contain l-dopa, side effects of which
include priapism (JAD).
Myroxylon balsamum (L.). Harms. Fabaceae. "Balsamo",
"Estoraque", "Balsam of Peru". For parquets, dormers, posts,
jam poles, handicrafts, keel plates for boats. Resin from trunks believed
antipyretic and cicatrizant. Resin used for colds, lung ailments (SAR),
abscesses, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, headache, rheumatism, sores, sprains,
tuberculosis, venereal diseases, and wounds (DAW, RAR). Powdered bark used as
incense (SOU).
Nicotiana tabacum L. Solanaceae. "Tabaco",
"Tobacco". Cultivated. The black tobacco "mapacho or
siricaipe", is smoked during the ayahuasca, witchcraft, healing, and cleansing
rituals; the pitch left from the smoke is picked up on a piece of paper and
applied on the skin to kill worms. Powdered tobacco is mixed with aguardiente
and given to dogs to make them better hunters. "Créoles" mixed the dried leaves
with Scoparia dulcis leaves, while the "Wayãpi" use the pitch,
to suffocate the larvae of the worm "macaco", Dermatobia
hominis (Euterebrides), parasites which live in the skin of humans and
dogs. "Palikur" poultice it onto migraine headaches; it is also used as a
cholagogue to treat liver diseases. One drop of tobacco juice makes a strong
collyrium (GMJ). "Bora" and "Witoto" poultice fresh leaves onto boils and
infected wounds (SAR). "Jivaro" take tobacco juice for chills, indisposition and
snakebite (SAR). "Tukanoan" rub the leaf decoction onto bruise and sprains
(SAR). Many Indian groups used it for lung ailments (SAR). In Piura the leaf
decoction is applied externally for parasites and rheumatism.
Ocimum micranthum Willd. Lamiaceae. "Albaca", "Iroro",
"Pichana albaca", "Pichana blanca", "Wild basil". Used for
fever and headache around Pucallpa (VDF). Said to be hallucinogenic (RVM).
"Créoles" prepare a collyrium from the flowers; with the decoction they make a
tea to treat flu. The maceration is used by the "Wayãpi" in antipyretic baths,
and in massage to relieve colic (GMJ). Leaves are used to relieve gastric pains
(RVM). "Tikuna" wash the head with leaf macerations for fever (SAR). Leaf juice
dropped into eyes for conjunctivitis (SAR). Sometimes used as spice and perfume
(SAR). Tapajos residents use the plant on bugbites and stings.
Passiflora quadrangularis L.
Passifloraceae. "Tumbo", "Giant granadilla". Cultivated. Fruits
edible; stems are considered POISON; the leaves, roots and flowers
abortifacient. "Chami" make an infusion to treat fractures and bruises (RVM).
Elsewhere considered calmant, CNS-depressant, cardiodepressant, decongestant,
depurative, emollient, narcotic, sedative; used for arthritis, diabetes,
hoarseness, hypertension, inflammation, liver ailments, neuralgia, sorethroat,
and uvulitis (DAW). Contains noradrenalin (JBH).
Paullinia cupana HBK. Sapindaceae. "Guaraná",
"Cupana". Cultivated. Seed decoction an astringent, bitter,
nervine tonic (FEO). From the seeds is prepared commercial guarana. Considered a
preventive for arteriosclerosis, and an effective cardiovascular drug; also used
to treat chronic diarrhea. Considered analgesic (MJB), aphrodisiac, astringent,
febrifuge, intoxicant, piscicide, stimulant, and tonic; used for diarrhea,
dysentery, hypertension, migraine, neuralgia (DAW, RAR). Seeds contains >5%
caffeine, cf tea with 2.2%, and toasted coffee with 0.8%, green coffee with 2.2%
, and cacao with l.l% (RVM). Traces of theobromine and theophyllline also occur
(Int. J. Pharmacogn. 31(3):174. 1993).
Persea americana Mill. Lauraceae. "Palta",
"Huira palta", "Avocado". Cultivated fruit tree. Fruit juice
considered aphrodisiac, used against dandruff and alopecia (FEO). Leaves well
known as stomachic, emmenagogue, and resolvent. Seed decoction is an
antidiarrheic, also used as an abortive. Used to treat amebic dysentery,
diabetes, and snakebite (SOU). Also well known as antidiabetic (RVM). It
eliminates uric acid, is a reconstituent tonic, antianemic, diuretic,
antiinflammatory for the liver, for renal calculus, to strengthen weak muscles,
for dysentery, and it is a mild aphrodisiac (RVM). "Tikuna" drink a cup of
avocado leaf tea before meals to clean the liver (SAR). "Ketchwa" crush seed
with Brownea wood and Rudgea leaves and make a decoction, said
to stop menstruation for 3-6 months (SAR). As contraceptive, the seed decoction
is taken each month during menses (SAR). "Siona-Secoya" also use as
contraceptive (SAR). Ecuadorian "Shuar" take crushed seed in aguardiente for
snakebite (SAR). Monounsaturates like oleic-acid are the health food rage now;
avocado proved highest among 1,200 species (JAD).
Petiveria alliacea L. Phytolaccaceae.
"Chanviro", "Micura", "Mocosa", "Mucura", "Sacha ajo". Reportedly abortive,
antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antipyretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, sudorific;
mostly used in magic rituals call "limpias" ("cleansing"). The curanderos bathe
the patients in the liquid left from the infusion to cleanse them from the
"salt" (bad luck); other people bathe with it on the first hour of the new year.
Colombians chew the plant in order to coat their teeth and protect them from
cavities (GAB). Also used in ritual amulets. Preclinical tests show depressive
effects on the central nervous system (CNS), with anticonvulsive effects (RVM).
"Créoles" use it to get rid of bad spirits; the roots are antispasmodic and
antipyretic; the leaf decoction, sudorific and cough suppressant. "Palikur" use
to protect their children against bad luck, and in baths for the vitamin
deficiency called "coqueluche" (GMJ). "Tikuna" bathe feverish patients in the
leaf infusion and wash headache with the decoction. For bronchitis and
pneumonia, a drop of kerosene and lemon juice is added to a teaspoon of
macerated leaves (SAR). Rutter mentions beriberi, cramps, nerves, paralysis,
rheumatism, scabies, scorpion sting, spider bites, toothache, venereal diseases,
and vision, calling the herb abortifacient, analgesic, contraceptive, diuretic,
emmenagogue, vermifuge, and insecticide (RAR). Independently, two different
sources, one Venezuelan, one Colombian, related anecdotes about "curing"
pancreatic cancer with Petiveria (JAD). Tramil all but endorses
inhalation of the aroma for migraine and sinusitis, and using as a mouthwash for
toothache (TRA).
Phyllanthus niruri L. Euphorbiaceae.
"Chanca piedra", "Sacha foster", "Stone-breaker". Like other
species, quite effective in eliminating kidney- and gallstones (NIC). Considered
anodyne, apertif, carminative, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, laxative,
stomachic, tonic and vermifuge, used elsewhere for blennorrhagia, colic,
diabetes, dropsy, dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, flu, gonorrhea, itch, jaundice,
kidney ailments, malaria, proctitis, stomachache, tenesmus, tumors and vaginitis
(DAW). Plant has proven antihepatotoxic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal,
diuretic, febrifugal, and hypoglycemic activity (TRA).
Physalis peruviana L. Solanaceae. "Aguaymanto". "Cape
gooseberry". Fruit edible. Fruit juice for pharyngitis and stomatitis,
the infusion as an ocular decongestant, the diuretic leaf infusion for cough and
jaundice (FEO).
Piper angustifolium R.&P. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo",
"Matico". Leaves applied externally as antiseptic vulnerary; the tea consumed
for bronchitis, dysentery, gonorrhea, inflammation, and malaria (FEO, RAR).
Infusion washed onto rheumatic areas around Pucallpa (VDF).
Piper peltatum L. Piperaceae. "Santa María". Leaves used as table
cloths, to wrap food (RVM), and rubbed on the body as a tick repellent (DAW).
Leaf decoction used as a diuretic, antipyretic, and emetic. The leaves passed
over fire are applied directly on the head to relieve and reduce the swelling
caused by trauma and hernias. Leaf poulticed onto sores (DAT). Believed anodyne,
antiblennorrhagic, antiinflammatory, diuretic, lenitive, pediculicidal,
piscicidal, resolvent, sudorific, vermifuge (JAD, RVM). "Créoles" use it as an
antineuralgic, the leaf infusion as a sudorific (GMJ). Elsewhere used for
abscesses, burns, colds, erysipelas, headache, hepatitis, leishmaniasis,
swellings, toothache and urethritis (DAW).
Portulaca oleracea L. Portulacaceae.
"Verdolaga", "Purslane". Crushed plant used for fever, stings,
and swellings. Containing noradenaline, purslane might logically be rubbed onto
beestings and/or placed under the tongue, especially of allergic people (JAD).
"Créoles" prepare an antidiabetic, digestive, and emollient tea. Used by the
Palikur as a hypotensive (GMJ) (but contains hypertensive compounds JAD).
Elsewhere considered alexeritic, alterative, aperient, astringent, bactericidal,
cardiotonic, demulcent, detergent, diuretic, emmolient, fungicidal, hemostat,
refrigerant, sedative, vermifugal and viricidal; used folklorically for anthrax,
bladder ailments, blenorrhagia, boils, bugbites, burns, colds, colic,
dermatitis, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, earache, eczema, edema,
enterorrhagia, erysipeals, fever, gonorrhea, gravel, hematuria, hepatitis,
herpes, hyperglycemia, hypotension, inflammation, insomnia, leucorrhea, nausea,
nephritis, palpitations, piles, pleuritis, pruritis, snakebite, sores,
splentitis, strangury, swellings, toothache, tumors,, warts and wounds DAW. A
rather promising chemopreventive (="cancer-preventive") herb, loaded with
antioxidants (JAD). Seeds of P. peruviana I.M. Johnston are considered
emmenagogue and vermifuge. The shoot decoction, considered diuretic and
cholagogue, is used for headache. Shoots are chopped and applied in pork fat to
hemorrhoids (FEO).
Pourouma cecropiaefolia Mart. Moraceae.
"Baacohe", "Ubilla", "Grape tree". Cultivated. Fruit edible,
produced ca 3 years after planting (MJB). Wood used for paper pulp, and the
toasted seeds as a substitute for coffee (RVM). Leaf ashes sometimes substituted
for Cecropia as a coca additive. "Bara-Maku" use root scrapings to
induce permanent sterility (SAR). "Cubeo" use as a masticatory, elsewhere
considered intoxicant (DAW).
Psidium guayaba L. Myrtaceae. "Guayabo",
"Guayabo blanco", "Guava". Cultivated. Fruit is edible. Wood
used to for tool handles, and for the "tramojo" (an implement put on pigs so
they cannot walk easily). The infusion of foliar buds is used for diarrhea
(especially that caused by bacteria, AYA). Also used for sanitary napkins; for
dentition, and swellings of gout (VAM). "Exumas" use the leaves and roots for
diarrhea. Natives of Cojeles (Venezuela) use the bark decoction for diarrhea,
the floral infusion to regulate menstrual periods (FOR). "Créoles" and "Wayãpi"
use decoction of bark, leaves, and shoots for diarrhea (GMJ). Tramil recommends
the leaves for diarrhea, emotional shock, vertigo, and vomiting (TRA).
Quassia amara L. Simaroubaceae. "Amargo", "Cuasia",
"Bitterwood". Insecticidal, tonic, for fever and hepatitis
(RAR). Brazilians use the leaf tea in bathing for measles (BDS), a remedy that
sounds a bit better than tea of ashes of dry white dog dung. Brazilians also
wash the mouth with leaf tea after tooth extraction. Surinamese "Maroons" use
the bark for fever and parasites (MJP). Potent aphidicide (MJP).
Rauwolfia tetraphylla L. Apocynaceae. "Misho runto",
"Pelilla", "Sanango", "Turcassa", "Amazonian snakeroot". Around
Pucallpa, the leaf decoction is used for toothache (VDF). "Shipibos", "Yaguas",
and "Achuales" use the roots as arrow POISON (AYA). Reserpine, tetraphylline,
and tetraphyllicine are obtained from this species and from R. sprucei
(LAE).
Renealmia alpina (Rottb.) Maas. Zingiberaceae.
"Mishquipanga". Fruits yield a red-purple dye used for cloth and handicraft. Don
Segundo suggests this plant as an ephemeral mosquito repellant; it seems to
work, albeit briefly, on some of us.
Ryania speciosa Vahl var. tomentosa (Miq.) Monach.
Flacourtiaceae. "Esponja huayo", "Espuma huayo". Highly toxic species used by
the "Paumari" as fish POISON; used for making insecticides (RVM). On Rio Negro,
they used the roots for rat POISON (SAR) "Maku" said to use the plant for
euthanasia, homocide and suicide (DAW).
Scoparia dulcis L. Scrophulariaceae. "Bati
matsoti", "Escobilla", "Ñucñu-pichana", "Piqui pichana". Leaf infusion used for
bronchitis, cough, diarrhea, fevers, kidney diseases, and hemorrhoids (RVM,
VDF). Leaf infusion antidiarrheic and emetic (CAA). Antiseptic leaf decoction
used for wounds; and fever. "Créoles" use the leaf decoction mixed with maternal
milk as an antiemetic for infants. Dried leaves used by as a marihuana
substitute. "Palikur" use the leaf decoction in antipyretic baths and in
poultices for migraine headaches (GMJ). Ecuadorians take the tea for pain and
swelling (SAR). "Tikuna" drink the tea, with or without "paico", three days
during the menses as an abortifacient or contraceptive (SAR). Four to five
plants tied together make the typical river-dweller's broom (RVM). Brazilians
add the root to the bath when "cleaning their blood" (BDS). They apply strained
leaf juice for eye ailments; and to infected wounds (erysipelas) (BDS).
Sida rhombifolia L. Malvaceae.
"Ancusacha", "Pichana", Varilla". Considered analgesic, aphrodisiac, demulcent,
diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient, lactagogue, and sedative; used for alopecia,
antibiotic, bilious conditions, bladder ailments, boils, burns, conjunctivitis,
dermatosis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, dyspnea, gastrosis, gonorrhea, impetigo,
leucorrhea, lupus, piles, rheumatism, snakebite, sores, thrush, tuberculosis,
tumors, ulcers, urethritis, and wounds (DAW, TRA, RAR).
Simarouba amara Aubl. Simaroubaceae. "Marupá". Wood for
lumber, interior decorations, furniture, plywood veneer, paper pulp. Bark
decoction for fever. "Créoles" mix macerated bark with rum as a tonic for
malaria and dysentery (GMJ). Emetic, hemostat, purgative, tonic (RAR).
Siparuna guianensis Aubl. Monimiaceae.
"Isula huayo", "Picho huayo", "Asna huayo". Fruit used in fiestas, the leaf
infusion believed aphrodisiac. Leaf decoction used in baths for mycosis.
"Créoles" use the leaf tea as an abortive, oxytocic, and antipyretic; the
alcoholic leaf maceration as vulnerary, and the salty leaf decoction as
hypotensive. "Wayãpi" use the decoction of leaves and bark as a refreshment and
antipyretic (GMJ). The tea of the leaves and flowers is used as a carminative,
in dyspepsia, and painful spasms (RVM). Don Segundo informed one class that the
aroma of this plant, applied to the skin to prevent hunted animals from smelling
the hunter (by masking his body odor), was not only effective, but rendered the
hunter all but irresistible to females. One of my taxonomic associates claims to
have confirmed this empirically (JAD). "Tikuna" eat the fruits for dyspepsia
(SAR). Elsewhere considered anodyne, insecticidal and stomachic; used
folklorically for colds, colic, cramps, dermatosis, fever, headache, mange,
rheumatism, snakebite and wounds (DAW). Tapajos natives make solar tea from the
leaves for bathing headache (BDS).
Solanum mammosum L. Solanaceae. "Vaca
chucho", "Tinctona", "Breast berry". Used as an ornamental;
fruit said to be POISONOUS. "Boras" use it to treat the sores of leishmaniasis,
a worm infection (DAT). "Chocó" (JAD) and the "Chami" use the fruit to kill
cockroaches (CAA). "Cuna" use fruit macerated in hot water for growths on the
breast (doctrine of signatures?). In Tolima and Santander seeds are used as
insecticides (FOR). Guatemalans use fruits as medicine and ornament during
pilgrimages. In Costa Rica, the leaf decoction is used for kidney and bladder
infections. The decoction of the fruit with all its juice is used for asthma;
plant also used for sinusitis, arthritis and rheumatism (POV). "Kofán" use as a
pacifier for small children (SAR).
Solanum sessiliflorum Dun. Solanaceae. "Cocona", "Topiro".
Cultivated. Fruit edible and makes good juice, often served at Explorama. Juice
used as a scabicide; also recommended after snakebite (RVM). "Waorani" rub juice
on scalp to cleanse and gloss the hair (SAR). Boiled plant rubbed on spiderbites
to heal necrotic tissue (SAR). Following scorpion sting, juice is drunk to
prevent vomiting (SAR).
Spilanthes acmella L. Asteraceae. "Botoncillo". Brazilians boil the
flowering tops for the lungs, specifically tuberculosis (BDS).
Spondias mombin L. Anacardiaceae.
"Ciruela", "Hubo", "Ubos, "Ushun", "Hog Plum". Fruit edible.
Wood for lumber and veneer. Root decoction used for diarrhea, and for mothers
after giving birth, taking small doses for two consecutive months. Itaya
residents use it for tuberculosis, as an adjuvant with antibiotics. Docoction
used for vaginal baths to treat infections and hemorrhoids (AYA). "Campas" use
it to lure tapirs (RVM). "Créoles" use the bark for diarrhea and upset stomach
(GMJ). "Tikuna" use bark decoction as anodyne and hemostat in diarrhea,
metrorrhagia and stomachache (SAR). A single cup, given each day during the
menses, is believed contraceptive; drunk one day after delivery, it is believed
to lead to permanent sterility (SAR). Tramil mentions antiviral, myorelaxant and
uterotonic activities (TRA). In Brazil, used in ice creams and liqueurs (MJP).
Stachytarpheta cayennensis (Rich). Vahl. Verbenaceae.
"Ocollucuy sacha", "Sacha verbena". The stems and leaves are soaked in some
water, squeezed and mixed, the greenish extract drunk, one glass a day, for
three consecutive months for diabetes (AYA). UHV natives use the plant in
medicine for their dogs (RAF). "Créoles" use the leaf tea as a cholagogue
purgative for dysentery. "Wayãpi" and "Palikur" use the plant decoction in baths
to relieve colds and headaches (GMJ). Venezuelans have used it for tumors,
Dominicans as a panacea, and Trinidadians as a collyrium and depurative in chest
colds, dysentery, fever, heart attacks, ophthalmia and worms (DAW).
Strychnos guianensis (Aubl.) Mart. Loganiaceae. "Comida del
venado", "Anzuelo casha". Stems used to make "curaré"; recommended as an
aphrodisiac. Mixed with Uncaria guianensis, the decoction is
used in genital baths for venereal diseases (RVM). Contains brucine,
eritocurarine, guaiacurarines, guaiacurine, c-guaianine, and strychnine (JAD).
Symphonia globulifera L.f. Clusiaceae. "Azufre caspi",
"Navidad caspi", "Chullachaqui", "Buckwax". Wood used for house
construction, canoes, paddles, keel plates, flooring, carpentry, tool handles,
etc. It is good quality for construction, carpentry, and firewood (RVM). Latex
used to caulk boats (RVM). "Créoles" use the latex for dermatosis, and to
reinforce the binding of the arrows (RVM). Indians apply the bark ash to wounds
and indolent ulcers (SAR). Brazilians use the seed oil for dermatoses (SAR).
Tabebuia chrysanta (Jacq.) Nichols. Bignoniaceae. "Tahuarí
negro", "Paliperro". Wood for lumber, posts, poles, handicrafts, parquets.
"Yaguas" use the trunk to make jungle drums. Over-exported to the US as "tahebo"
or "pao-d'arco", bark tea marketed for candidiasis, cancer, and malignant tumors
(JAD).
Tabernaemontana sananho R.&P.
Apocynaceae. "Sanango", "Lobo sanango", "Toomecocoriu". Much as T.
rimulosa. The leaves, softened by fire, are applied to relieve rheumatic
pains (RVM). In Pastaza, taken one week after delivery. "Pulp is used as a
gargle for sore throat and colds" (SAR). "Tikuna" mix the latex with water for
eye wounds (SAR). "Jivaro" apply the bark juice to toothache (SAR). Considered
sudorific, tonic, used for colds, obesity, rheumatism, syphilis (RAR).
Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. Bignoniaceae. "Campanilla
amarilla", "Yellowbells". Cultivated ornamental. In SOME
MEDICINAL FOREST PLANTS OF AFRICA AND LATIN AMERICA, FAO (1986), note that
the alkaloids tecomine and tecostanine lower the blood sugar in experimental
animals. Leaf infusions lower the blood sugar in humans. In Mexico, its roots
have shown antisyphilitic, diuretic and tonic properties (FAO).
Theobroma cacao L. Sterculiaceae. "Cacao",
"Chocolate". Cultivated. The pulp of fruit edible. Food uses of
chocolate, made from the seed, are well known (RVM). Not so well known is the
fact that much cocoa butter ends up in suppositories. Leaf infusion widely used
as cardiotonic and diuretic in Colombia (SAR). "Karijona" use toasted seed with
manihot squeezings for a scalp condition like eczema. "Ingano" use the bark
decoction as a wash for sarna (SAR). Theobromine and theophylline, like
caffeine, all found in this plant, used in modern medicine as antiasthmatic
(JAD). We are cooperating with one entrepreneur seeking a "lean green cacao
bean" for renewable "organic low-fat rainforest chocolate".
Theobroma subincanum Mart. Sterculiaceae. "Cacahuillo",
"Cacao macambillo"", "Macambillo", "Macambo sacha". Fruit pulp edible.Powdered
inner bark (of pod) mixed with tobacco as an hallucinogen. "Tirio" value the
bark as tinder for starting fires (MJP).
Tynnanthus panurensis (Bur.) Sandw.
Bignoniaceae. "Clavo huasca", "Inejkeu", "Clove vine". The
pieces of roots and stems are macerated in aguardiente to make a stimulant
liqueur, good for rheumatism (RVM). Resin used for fevers (DAT). Some explorama
visitors have used it, effectivly, for toothache, being as effective as, and
probably chemically similar to clove oil (JAD). Some visitors believe, others
disbelieve, that the rays of the cross, steeped in aguardiente, are aphrodisiac,
some for females, some for males, some for both. We have no incontrovertible
empirical evidence, one way or the other.
Uncaria guianensis (Aubl.) Gmel.
Rubiaceae. "Uña de gato", "Cat's claw", "Paraguayo",
"Garabato", "Uña de gavilán", "Hawk's claw". In Piura, the bark
decoction, considered antiinflammatory, antirheumatic, and contraceptive, is
used in treating gastric ulcers and tumors (FEO). Considered a remedy for cancer
of the female's urinary tract; also used for gastritis, rheumatism and
cirrhosis. The "Boras" use it for gonorrhea (RVM). Colombian and Guianan Indians
use it for dysentery (SAR). Nicole Maxwell culimates her latest edition with an
illustrated anecdote about this plant, now exported by the tons to Europe, for
various cancers. Nicole even states that it turns grey hair black, including
some of her own (NIC). See following entry.
Uncaria tomentosa (Aubl.) Gmel. Rubiaceae. "Uña de gato",
"Cat's claw", "Paraguayo", "Garabato", "Uña de gavilán",
"Hawk's claw". Widely used in Peru for antiinflammatory,
contraceptive, and cytostatic activities, the plant has yielded an
antiinflammatory antiedemic glycoside (JNP54{2}:453. 1991). In Piura, the bark
decoction, considered antiinflammatory, antirheumatic, and contraceptive, is
used in treating gastric ulcers and tumors (FEO). In her latest edition, Nicole
Maxwell (1990) has added much information which may reflect the potential of the
cat's claw. She informs us that Sidney McDaniel submitted samples to the NIH
cancer screen.
Unonopsis veneficiorum (Mart.) R.E. Fries.
Annonaceae. "Icoja". Bark used like U. floribunda (RVM), also
in curaré (SAR). "Maku" use in antifertility potions (SAR).
Urera baccifera (L.) Gaud. Urticaceae.
"Ishanga Moe", "Mara mara","Stinging nettle". The stinging
hairs on the leaves are used to relieve rheumatic pains. "Chami" cook and eat
the leaves and stems after removing the thorns (CAA). Around Pucallpa, applied
to the body for persistent fever (VDF). Elsewhere considered diuretic,
rubefacient and vesicant; used for amenorrhea, arthritis, chills, fever,
gonorrhea, leucorrhea, malaria, rheumatism and venereal diseases (DAW). One M.D.
speculated that the acetylcholine, choline and histamine injected with the
stings, would stimulate the production of mast cells which might in turn result
in antiinflammatory (and antiarthritic) activity, away from the sting.
Virola calophylla Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca".
Wood for lumber. Some natives (e.g."Bora" and "Huitoto"), use Virola as
a powerful hallucinogen, taking it orally and nasally. They grate, dry, and
toast the inner bark slowly until it becomes powder so they can inhale it. They
also grate the cambium, boil it in water, mixing continuously until it forms a
thick syrup; after it dries, they make pills and swallow them. The alkaloids
found are mostly derivatives of tryptamine: DMT, MMT, 5-Me0-DMT, 5-Me0-MMT, and
the derivatives of beta-carboline: 6-Me0-DMTHC; the percentage of such compounds
vary according to the species, as well as their environment (RVM). Widely used
for fungal diseases and scabies (SAR). Amazonian Peruvians use for bladder and
stomach ailments (SAR). "Maku" use the bark tea for malaria (SAR).
Virola surinamensis (Rol.) Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala
blanca hoja parda". Wood for lumber, plywood. "Bora" and "Huitoto" use the
cambium as a hallucinogen. The decoction of the aerial rootlets that appear on
the base of the trunk is used for cough. "Palikur" prepare a bark emollient used
for swellings and erysipelas; used as an oral antiseptic to treat canker sores
and abscesses. For swelling, it is mixed with bark of Humiria
balsamifera, the decoction used for external baths (GMJ). Tea of
leaves, sap, and bark, mixed with Physalis angulata, is used
for upset stomach, intestinal colic, erysipelas, and inflammations (RVM). Leaves
contain the antitubercular compound galbacin, the antiaggregant veraguensin, and
the antischistosomal surinamensis (JBH).
Vismia angusta Miq. Hypericaceae. "Pichirina hoja grande".
The wood is used for rural construction; the decoction of the latex from the
buds, mixed with the latex of Euphorbia cotinifolia, is used
to treat ringworm or "caracha" (dermatosis caused by fungus) (RVM). Amazonian
Colombians use the latex for infected sores and wounds. "Tikuna" use to treat
herpes and mycoses (SAR). The latex of one Vismia is slated for studies
by a California pharmaceutical company; preliminary tests suggest it to be
effective (MJP). Both Segundo and JAD suffered long-lasting rashes as a result
of the latex (JAD).
Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Zingiberaceae.
"Jengibre", "Kión". Cultivated. Macerated rhizomes in aguardiente for arthritis
and rheumatism; believed to invigorate males. Rhizome decoction used for
diarrhea, and, with a pinch of cinnamon, stomachaches. Also used as an
antiflatulent and spice. "Palikur" poultice the rhizomes onto migraine headaches
(GMJ). Used also for bronchitis and rheumatic pains (RVM). Tramil reports that
oral doses of 50-100 mg/kg of the alcoholic extract have antiinflammatory
activity comparable to aspirin, and not so promising analgesic activity. The
extract is active against gram negative and positive bacteria. Gingerol and
shogoal show molluscicidal activity (TRA). Furanogermenone, at oral doses of 500
mg/kg helps prevent gastric ulcer. Shogoal is intensely antitussive, compared to
dihydrocodeine (TRA). One gram of powdered ginger can prevent seasickness (JAD).
Tramil all but recommends it for colds, coughs, flu, stomachache and vomiting
(TRA). Rio Tapajos women drink the tea while in labor, giving the "baby the
strength to come out" (BDS). They also take the tea for colic, menstrual cramps,
sore throat.
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GENERAL REFERENCES: Reader's Digest Magic and Medicine of Plants;
Natural Health's World Medicine; Lewis and Elvin-Lewis Medical
Botany