The boldo It is a plant that grows in mountainous and dry areas in areas with a tropical and temperate climate, being native to South America, specifically Chile and Argentina. Used since ancient times, boldo was already known in pre-Columbian times, being used by the Mapuche Indians as a medicinal plant. Its use was also common in Europe due to its many health benefits.
The boldo, also known as Peumus boldus , is commonly used to purify the body, treat insomnia, as well as for liver problems, offering an important hepatoprotective action. Boldo has an aroma similar to that of lemon and camphor and its leaves are often used for medicinal purposes.
In this article we want to show you what are the properties and benefits of boldo to improve your health. We started!
Boldo properties
Boldo has a variety of components, among which the essential oils such as cineole, eucalyptol and ascarides, in addition to alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids.
These components give it anti-inflammatory, stimulant, hepatoprotective, diuretic, expectorant, fungicidal, antiseptic and sedative properties. On the other hand, flavonoids have an important protective action on the heart, while their tannins have antioxidant properties.
Boldo contraindications
On the other hand, it is also important to take into account its contraindications. A) Yes, if consumed in excess, boldo can cause vomiting and diarrhea, as well as having an anesthetic or hypnotic effect. Its consumption is not recommended in people who take anticoagulants or antiplatelets or people with kidney problems or people with alcohol problems.
It is recommended that pregnant women do not drink it as it can cause abortions, and it is not recommended for children either.
Boldo benefits
Between his Benefits highlights:
Optimizes liver and biliary functions and helps eliminate toxins
Boldo alkaloids have a beneficial effect on the liver and gallbladder, increasing the production of bile and promoting its expulsion. It also prevents the formation of gallstones and its consumption is recommended in case of jaundice, cirrhosis, hepatobiliary failure, biliary dyskinesia or fatty liver.
Fight insomnia
Sleep disorders can be slowed down by boldo tea, although this natural remedy cannot be followed for more than four weeks in a row. Essential oils like cymene, eugenol and limonene, help relax the nervous system and reduce levels of stress, anxiety and nervousness.
Has antioxidant action
In the study by A. Villar Fresnedo and P. Gómez-Serranillos (2006), from the Faculty of Pharmacy of the Complutense University of Madrid, it is noted how numerous investigations have been on the relationship between the chemical composition and the antioxidant activity of the bolus, pointing to boldine and the presence of phenolic compounds as the origin of the free radical scavenging capacity of its leaf.
It has an invigorating and protective action on the stomach
The aroma of boldo has a positive effect on the digestive system, being recommended as a relief from stomach pain, gastritis and digestive problems, as well as being antiflatulent. It also increases appetite, being ideal for people who need to regain weight. A natural remedy for bad breath is to chew boldo leaves.
Strengthens the immune system
Boldo improves the immune system, being ideal for dealing with colds, colds, sore throats and nasal congestion.
It is diuretic and relieves urinary or ear infections
It also favors the expulsion of fluids, fighting urinary infections and helping in weight loss. Ear infections can be relieved with a few drops of boldo tea. For vaginal infections, sitz baths with warm boldo tea are recommended.
Relieves muscle aches
A compress made from the leaves of the boldo plant helps soothe headaches, sprains, dislocations, neck pain, and strains.