Plants Used in Mexican

Traditional Medicine

Their Application and Effects In

Traditional Healing Practices
Text by

Armando González Stuart, Ph.D.

Herbal Research Coordinator
UTEP/UT Austin Cooperative Pharmacy Program
 Acknowledgements
z We would like to thank Ms Sarah Schoofield, of México
Desconocido magazine, for her generous permission to
use the beautiful photographs, drawings and maps, which
have appeared in various publications of that magazine.
z The majority of the photos, drawings, and maps presented
here are the work of photographers, artists and scientists
including: Abigaíl Aguilar-MS, Lorenzo Armendáriz,
Salatiel Barragán, Robert Bye-PhD, André Cabrolier,
Rafael Doniz, Ignacio Guevara, Franz Mahler, Ruben
Morante, Oscar Pastor Ojeda, Manuel Sarmiento, Nicolás
Triedo and Santiago Xolapa.
 Disclaimer
z This presentation is not intended to
promote any plant to be used for therapeutic
purposes.
z It is merely a compilation of herbal use by
Mexican Traditional Medicine.
z Very few of these plants have ever been
studied in depth, so little is known about
their efficacy or possible side effects.
z Warning: Do not self-medicate with any
herb. Consult your health provider first.
 Introduction
z Mexico has a rich tradition of herbal use that
predates the European conquest by many
centuries
z Mexico's medicinal herbal repertoire is one of the
world’s most diverse and contains various native
plants, as well as many other species introduced
from diverse parts of the globe
z Approximately 3,000 to 5,000 plants (both native
and introduced) are currently used medicinally
by 52 different ethnicities throughout the country
 Medicinal Plants in Mexico

z The Aztec civilization of

Mexico was the only one in
the New World to record
the use of medicinal herbs

z They did so in “codices” or

catalogues that showed
drawings of the plants
Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine
Codices containing information about Aztec medicinal plants
were considered “heretical”, and burned by Spanish missionaries
 Codices
z A few missionaries had the
vision of recuperating at least a
small portion of this knowledge
and reconstructing two codices

z One was written, both in Latin

and Náhuatl (the Aztec language)
and known as the De La Cruz-
Badiano Codex

z It became the first bilingual

publication of the New World
Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine
(1552)
 Codices
z These codices were taken
to Italy and forgotten for
more than 300 years
z They were “rediscovered”
until the twentieth century
z Some of the plants pictured
in the codices are still used
in the same way today. Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine
 México’s great biodiversity
z Mexico's rugged landscape includes a great
diversity of plants, animals and fungi
z Unfortunately, very few Mexican plants have ever
been studied in detail regarding their medicinal
potential
z Deforestation, ill-planned urban expansion,
uncontrolled livestock grazing, and desertification
are currently threatening Mexico's natural
resources, including the survival of various
medicinal plants
Mexico has a rich diversity of medicinal plants

Map courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Some medicinal plants may have a mystical significance

in Mexican traditional healing practices
 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

The peyote cactus has been used for centuries

in various religious ceremonies
 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Medicinal plants are used in various types

of healing practices throughout Mexico
 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Traditional healers view some plants as

important spiritual entities
 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Drying herbs in the traditional way

 The Marketplace
z In Mexico, marketplaces are important areas of
sale and distribution for medicinal herbs
z Since before Columbus, markets have provided
medicinal plants to people, as well as advice from
vendors and healers on how to use them
z Whether to instill or break a magic spell, or for
direct medicinal purposes to cure a specific
disease, herbs are still very important in the lives
of millions of people
 Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Aztec marketplace
 Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

Modern market in Mexico City

Medicinal Plants in Mexico

Traditional Uses and Applications

 Achiote, Annato
Bixa orellana - Bixaceae

z Measles (ground
seeds applied to
bath)
z Buccal sores
(seeds steeped in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

water, as rinse)
z Condiment and
food coloring
 Ahuehuete, Sabino
Taxodium mucronatum - Taxodiaceae

z Burns (bark
decoction, poultice)

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

z Diarrhea (leaf
infusion, as tea)
Ahuehuete tree

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido magazine

 Ailé, Birch
Alnus arguta - Betulaceae

z Fever

z Inflammation

z As
a poultice to Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

wash wounds
 Alamo Platanus lindeliana
Platanaceae

z Colds (ground
leaves with oil
applied topically
as poultice)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Fractures
z Headache
 Anís Tagetes lucida Cav.
Asteraeceae

z Carminative, digestive
z Inflammatory, fever
z “Empacho”(Stomach
upset)
z Avoid in pregnancy
z Unrelated to European Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

or Star Anise
 Añíl, Indigo Indigofera suffruticosa
Fabaceae

z Urinary problems

z Constipation

z Mange
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Syphilis
 Anona Anona reticulata
Anonaceae

z Boils(leaf infusion
as a wash)

z Diarrhea(bark
decoction as tea)
 Árnica del país, Falsa árnica
Heterotheca inuloides - Asteraceae

z Bruises, contusions (topically)

z Tea as gargles for sore throat
z Potentially toxic, avoid internal
use Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy and

lactation
z Not to be confused with
European arnica, with which it
shares some of its applications
 “Azafrán”, Zacatlaxcale
Cuscuta spp.- Convolvulaceae

z Parasitic plant

z Purgative
internally
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Fright(“susto”)
(plant decoction, as
bath)
 Baja tripa
Rivina humilis - Phytolaccaceae
z “Aire” (Wind)
z “Espanto” (Fright)
z Rash (prickly heat)
z Branch decoction
applied externally as
body wash Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Baiborín
Kallstroema grandiflora - Zygophyllaceae

z Fatigue

z Fever

z Body pains Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Mange
 Barbasco, Cabeza de negro
Dioscorea spp. - Dioscoreaceae

z Body aches
z Menstrual problems
z Progesterone source
z Rheumatism, aches
(rhizome steeped in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

alcohol, as a rub)
z Male contraceptive
 Barquilla
Rhoeo discolor - Commelinaceae

z Fungal infections:
roasted leaves, topical

z Vaginal infections:
leaf infusion douche Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Measles (leaf
infusion, orally)
 Batamote Baccharis glutinosa
Asteraceae

z Alopecia

z Stomach ache

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Mange

z Foot odor
 Bayetilla Hamelia patens
Rubiaceae

z Anti inflammatory
z Boils (stem
decoction,
externally)
z Pain relief (topical) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Yellow fever
(leaf infusion as tea)
 Berro Nasturtium acuaticum
Brassicaceae

z Goiter (iodide )

z Kidney pain
z Stomach
inflammation (raw)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Tuberculosis
(infusion)
 Bretónica Lepechinia caulescens
Lamiaceae

z Diarrhea

z Dysentery (stem
decoction)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Gastritis (topical)
 Cabezona, Chapúz
Helenium mexicanum - Asteraceae

z Colds (pulverized
flowerheads as
stornutatories; to
promote sneezing)
z Toxic if ingested Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid use
 Cacaloxóchitl Plumeria rubra
Apocynaceae

External application:
z Gonorrhea
z Warts
z Wounds (minor)
z Drastic purgative
z Avoid internally Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Cahuayote Gonolobus niger
Asclepiadaceae

z Gonorrhea (root
decoction)
z Efficacy unknown
z Avoid during
pregnancy and
lactation
 Calaguala Phlebodium aureum
Polypodiaceae

z Tea made from stem

z Diarrhea
z Gastric ulcers
z Kidney pain
z Efficacy unknown
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Calderona Galphimia glauca
Malpighiaceae

z Boils(external
application)
z Vaginal infections
z Wounds
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Candelilla Euphorbia antisyphillitica
Euphorbiaceae

z Used against venereal

disease (syphilis)
z Cathartic (purgative)
z Toothache
z Headache
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
z Avoid in pregnancy and
lactation
 Capulín Prunus serotina
Rosaceae

z Coughs (children)
z Decoction of stems
and leaves taken as
infusion (tea)

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

 Cedro Cedrela odorata
Meliaceae

z Colic
z Epilepsy (bark
decoction as tea)
z Fever
z Gall bladder
z Toothache (leaf tea)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Ceiba Ceiba pentandra
Bombacaceae

z Anti inflammatory
z Boils
z Insect bites
z Mange
z Bark and leaf
decoctions as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

poultices
 Chabacal Salvia lavanduloides
Lamiaceae

z Bronchitis

z Colds

z Coughs
z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Chaca Bursera simaruba
Burseraceae

z Fever (leaf infusion)

z Leaves boiled in
water to make a
bath
z Leaves applied on
soles of feet Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Chalahuite Inga jinicuil
Fabaceae

z Dysentery
(bark decoction)
z Stomach upset
(“empacho”)
bark decoction Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Flower infusion taken

for tachycardia
(“latido”)
 Chaparro amargoso
Castela tortuosa-Simaroubiaceae

z Amoebic dysentery

z Avoid during
pregnancy/
lactation Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Shrublands
in
northern México
 Chapuliztle Dodonaea viscosa
Sapindaceae

z Colic (leaf infusion)

z Fever (bark decoction)
z Gout ( leaf infusion)
z Ground leaves applied
to scabs and wounds Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Scalp problems
z Venereal disease
 Chaya Cnidoscolus chayamansa
Euphorbiaceae

z Boils(latex topically)
z Diabetes

z Kidney pain

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Obesity (capsules)
 Chicalote Argemone mexicana,
A. sanguinea Papaveraceae

z Papaverine
z hypnotic
z Post-part. bleeding
z Toothache
z Alopecia (hair loss)
z Kidney pain Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Seeds are toxic

 Chicozapote Achras zapota
Zapotaceae

z Ingestion of more
than 10 seeds can be
toxic
 Chicura Franseria ambrosioides
Asteraceae

z Promotes labor
z Given near
parturition
z External application
to treat scorpion
stings
z Avoid in pregnancy Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

and lactation
Chigüisa Pseudobombax ellipticum
Bombacaceae

z Asthma

z Colds

z Coughs flower
infusion taken Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

as tea
 Chipilín Crotalaria incana
Fabaceae

z Urinarybladder
“coldness”

z May contain cyanogenic

glycosides

z May contain pyrrolizidine

alkaloids Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy
 Cholla, Cardenche, Coyonoxtle
Opuntia imbricata - Cactaceae

z Teataken to treat
asthma

z Teaused against
diarrhea (plant Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

contains tannins)
 Chote,Turi Parmentiera edulis
Bignoniaceae

z Diabetes (root decoction

as tea)
z Earache
z Urinary problems (fruit
and branch infusion)
z Respiratory ailments
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(flower, fruit and root

infusion)
 Codo de fraile, Yóyotl
Thevetia thevetioides - Apocynaceae

z Boils and
hemorrhoids
(topically)
z “Weight loss”(seed) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Alkaloids (thevetine)
z Very toxic, avoid all
internal use
 Cojón de toro
Stemmadenia donnell-smithi
Apocynaceae

z Bruises,wounds (leaf
decoction externally
as poultice)

z Mosquito bites (latex Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

applied topically)

z Avoid internally
 Cola de caballo Equisetum arvense
Equisetaceae

z Arthritisand
rheumatism
z Diuretic
z Urinary problems
z Only the sterile Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

branches are used

z Some species are
thiaminase inhibitors
 Cola de venado
Erigeron karwinskianus -Asteraceae

z Dysentery

z Kidney pain
(stem decoction)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Sores (wash)
 Contrayerba
Dorstenia contrajerba - Moraceae

z Snakebite

z Vaginal hemorrhage

z Venerealdisease (root Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

decoction as tea)
 Cordón de San Antonio
Hyptis stellulata - Lamiaceae

z Earache
z Indigestion
z “Pasmo”
z Rheumatism Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Skininfections
z Avoid in
pregnancy
 Cordon de San Francisco
Salvia leucantha - Lamiaceae

z Fright (espanto)

z To reconstitute
women after birth
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(leaf infusion)
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Cosáhui, Mamelique, Crameria
Krameria grayi - Krameriaceae

z Diarrhea
z Skinantiseptic
z Diabetes
z Alopecia
z Loose teeth Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Cuachalalate o Axocopaque
Amphypteringium adstringens -
Julianaceae

z Circulatory ailments,
mixed with sassparilla
z Gastritis, peptic ulcers
z Vaginal infections
(topical)
z Bark decoction or
maceration
 Cuatecomate,Guaje
Crescentia cujete - Bignoniaceae

z Alopecia (leaf infusion)

z Diarrhea (leaf infusion)

z Expectorant (fruit pulp) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Liver ailments (fruit pulp)

 Cucharitas Acacia cochliacantha
Fabaceae

z Diarrhea

z Stomach ache
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Urinary bladder
 Cuitlacoche Ustilago maydis

z This a fungus, not a

green plant
z Parasite of corncobs
z Eaten as a delicacy
z May contain alkaloids
that stimulate uterus
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Culantrillo de pozo, Palmita
Adiantum capillus-veneris Pteridaceae

z Leaf infusion as a tea

z Emmenagogue (promotes
menstruation)
z Fright (susto)
z Kidney stones
z May cause abortion Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy and

lactation
 Cundeamor Momordica charantia
Cucurbitaceae

z Diabetes (fruit and

leaves
z Anthelminthic
z Fever, Colic and
headache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy
and lactation
 Damiana Turnera diffusa
Turneraceae

z Tea taken to “increase

libido”, treat sterility,
as a tonic for fatigue
z For colds and body
aches
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z May have
antidepressant action
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Diente de león, Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale - Asteraceae

z Tea made from plant

is used to treat gall
bladder and liver
ailments, anorexia
z Digestive, diuretic
z Externally, latex
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
removes warts
(irritating)
 Doradilla, Resurrection plant
Selaginella lepidophylla
Selaginellaceae
z Diuretic
z Gallbladder stones
z Kidney pain
z Urinary problems
z Combined with Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

horsetail (Equisetum)
 Encino, Oak
Quercus spp. - Fagaceae

z Astringent (tannins)
z Bleeding gums
z Loose teeth
z Skin antiseptic
z Toothache Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Bark decoction
 Epazote, Wormseed
Chenopodium ambrosioides
Chenopodiaceae
z Tea is taken to treat
stomach ailments and expel
worms
z Avoid in pregnancy,
lactation, and children
z Leaves are safe as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

condiment, but oil is

neurotoxic
 Epazote de Zorrillo
C. graveolens - Chenopodiaceae

z Anthelminthic
z “Aire” (flatulence)
z Coughs (expectorant)
z “Fright” (espanto)
z Stomach and liver Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

ailments
z Potentially toxic, avoid
use
 Espinosilla Loeselia mexicana
Polemoniaceae

External application for:

z Alopecia
z Dandruff
z Erysipelas
z Aerial parts as infusion
(tea)
 Estafiate Artemisia mexicana
Asteraceae

z Tea made from leaves

and stems is used to
treat stomachache,
diarrhea, worms and
rheumatism
z Avoid in pregnancy and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

lactation
z Avoid in patients with
nervous disorders
 Estropajo, Luffa
Luffa aegyptica - Cucurbitaceae

z Gerícua (leaf
infusion as bath)

z Lice(mashed fruit
in water, as hair
rinse) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Flor de manita, Macpalxóchitl
Chirantodendron pentadactylon
Sterculiaceae
z Tea from flowers

z Anxiety, Nerves
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Cardiac ailments
 Flor de tila, Linden Tila spp.
Tilaceae

z Anxiety

z Insomnia

z Nervous disorders
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Flower infusion
 Garañona Castilleja tenuiflora
Scrophulariaceae

z Alopecia

z “Blood purifier”

z Gall bladder Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Vaginal infections
 Girasol, Sunflower
Helianthus annuus - Asteraceae

z Headache

z Nervous
disorders
(anxiety)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Scabs
 Gobernadora,Guámis, Creosote
bush, “Chaparral” Larrea tridentata
Zygophyllaceae
z Athlete’sfoot
z Cancer (antioxidant)
z Foot odor
z Fungal skin infection Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Kidney stones
z Urinary infections
z Venereal disease
 Creosote bush, “Chaparral”

z NDGA, active
principle

z Freeradical
scavenger
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Antifungal
compounds
 Creosote bush, “Chaparral”

z Non-concentrated
infusion internally
z Concentrated forms
not recommended
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Pills and capsules

may cause hepatic
and renal damage
 Creosote bush, “Chaparral”

z Avoid prolonged
treatments
z Avoid in pregnancy,
lactation and small
children Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Topical applications
may cause irritation
 Gordolobo, Everlasting
Gnaphalium spp. - Asteraceae

z Similar properties as
unrelated Mullein
(Verbascum spp.)
z Respiratory problems, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

asthma, coughs
z Lumbago (externally)
z Avoid in pregnancy
 Guaco
Mikania spp. - Asteraceae
z Stomach ulcers, liver
problems
z Worms
z “Antidote” vs.
snakebites (unproven,
avoid)
z Avoid in pregnancy and
lactation
 Guamúchil Pithecellobium dulce
Fabaceae

z Diarrhea

z Upset stomach

z Coughs Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Buccal sores
 Guanacastle
Enterolobium cyclocarpum - Fabaceae

z Red caterpillar sting

(bark decoction
applied directly to
affected area)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Guayaba, Guava
Psidium guava - Myrtaceae

z Diarrhea
(Tannins)

z Stomach upset
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Excellent
source
of Vitamin C
 Guayacán, Palo Santo
Guaiacum sanctum - Zygophyllaceae

z Coughs (flowers
as tea)
z Dysentery
z Diaphoretic
z Gastric ulcers Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Syphilis
z Tuberculosis
 Guázuma Guazuma ulmifolia
Sterculiaceae

z Diarrhea

z Fever

z Antiemetic
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z The
fruits contain
mucilage
 Guázuma Guazuma tomentosa
Sterculiaceae

z Leprosy

z Elephantiasis

z Syphilis Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Skin infections
 Helecho macho, Male fern
Dryopteris filix-mas

z Anthelminthic,
obsolete in modern
phytotherapy
z May cause abortion
z Avoid in pregnancy
and lactation
z Avoid in children
 Hierba de la víbora
Zorrica spp. - Asteraceae

z Taken as tea to treat

“Pasmo”

z Antidote vs. poisoning

z Anti-inflammatory
(topical application)
 Hierba del cáncer
Cuphea aequipetala - Lythraceae

z Antiseptic
z Boils,skin “tumors”
z Diarrhea (leaf
infusion)
z Wounds
z Avoid in pregnancy
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in children
 Hierba del carbonero
Baccharis sarothroides - Asteraceae

z Colds

z Muscular pain

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

 Hierba del golpe
Oenothera rosea - Onagraceae

z Bruises (topically)

z Colic (infusion)

z Skin inflammation Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(poultice, topically)
 Hierba del pollo (Matláli)
Commelina stans - Commelinaceae

z Arthritis (topically)
z Colic
z To treat diarrhea, the
leaves are blended
with water, lime juice Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

and honey)
z Hemostatic; fresh
crushed leaves
applied directly to cut
 Hierba del zorrillo
Petiveria alliacea - Phytolaccaceae

z Fever
z Seizures
z Weakness
z Avoid in small
children, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

pregnancy and
lactation
 Hierba de San Francisco
Heimia salicifolia - Lithraceae

z Bruises, inflammation
(ground leaves applied
topically as plaster)

z Coldbladder (branch
decoction as bath)
 Hierba Luisa Aloysia triphylla
Verbenaceae

z Tea from leaves

is taken to treat
anxiety, diarrhea
and stomach
upset
z Leaves have
citrus-like aroma
 Higuerilla, Ricino, Castor oil,
Palma christi)
Ricinus communis - Euphorbiaceae
z Fever, headache
z Purgative
z Seeds very poisonous
z Lectins cause
hemagglutination of
red blood cells
z Avoid internal use
 Hoja santa Tlanepaquelite, Momo
Piper sanctum - Piperaceae

z Teafrom stems
and leaves is
used to treat
“susto” or fright
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Huinólo, Chiráhui
Acacia cuchliacanta - Fabaceae

z Colds
z Diarrhea
z Gastritis
z Typhoid fever
z Urinary problems Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Huizache Acacia farnesiana
Fabaceae

z Diabetes
z Diarrhea
z Dyspepsia (flowers)
z Fever
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Kidneypain
z Tuberculosis (root)
 Hule Castilleja elastica
Moraceae

z Dislocations

z Fractures

z Latex applied
topically
z “Vilmas”(bandages)
Flor de Jamaica, Hibiscus, Roselle
Hibiscus sabdariffa - Malvaceae

z May lower cholesterol

z Diuretic

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Fever

z Laxative, digestive
 Lágrimas de San Pedro, Job’s
tears
Coix lachryma-jobi - Poaceae

z Tea from the

leaves is used to
treat diabetes

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

 Madroño Arbutus xalapensis
Ericaceae

z Kidney pain

z Leaf decoction

z Ingested as tea Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy
 Magnolia Magnolia grandiflora
Magnoliaceae

z Cardiac
problems

z Nerves
z Seizures
z Avoid in Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

pregnancy
 Maguey, Century plant
Agave spp. Agavaceae

z The leaf juice is taken

internally to treat
constipation and other
digestive ailments
z Aguamiel (sugar extract Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

from root) used against

gonorrhea
 Mangle rojo Rhizophora mangle
Rhizphoraceae

z Diabetes

z Dysentery

z Kidney pain Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(bark decoction
as tea)
 Mango Mangifera indica
Anacardiaceae

z Originally from
Asia
z Mouth infections
(seed decoction as
mouthwash)
z Stomachache (bark Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

decoction as tea)
 Mata ratón, Cocoíte
Gliricidia sepium - Fabaceae

z Fever

z Stomach upset

z Leaves are used as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

rodent poison
z Avoid internally
 Mezquite Prosopis juliflora
Fabaceae

z Boils (leaves)

z Conjunctivitis
(leaves)

z Stomach upset
 Muicle Justicia spicigera
Acanthaceae

z Teafrom aerial parts

taken to treat constipation

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Mange (branch decoction
applied topically)

z Rash
 Nanche Byrsonima crassifolia
Malpighiaceae

z Astringent action
used to treat
diarrhea
z Fungal infections
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
of the gums
z Loose teeth
 Nopal, Prickly pear cactus
Opuntia spp. Cactaceae
z Stems eaten raw or cooked
to treat diabetes
z Stems contain mucilage and
fiber
z Pulverized cactus capsules
taken to lower cholesterol
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Digestive
z Obesity (fiber)
 Nopal duraznillo
Opuntia leucotricha - Cactaceae

z Stemeaten to treat
diabetes

z Diarrhea
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Urinary -
problems
 Ocote colorado Pinus patula
Pinaceae

z Sorethroat
(hoarseness)
z Branch decoction
taken as tea
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Colds
 Palo bobo Ipomoea arborescens
Convolvulaceae

z Cardiac
problems
z Fever
z Spleen
z “Madness”
z Toxic to
ruminants (causes
emaciation)
 Palo de Brasil
Haematoxylon brasiletto - Fabaceae

z Tea made from branches

taken to treat depression,
fever and urinary problems
(infections, kidney stones)

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

 Palo de Campeche, Tinto
Haematoxylon campechianum - Fabaceae

z Branch decoction taken

as tea to treat:
z Diarrhea and dysentery
z Venereal disease (“blood
purifier”)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Palo fierro Olneya tesota
Fabaceae

z Asthma

z Fever

z Loose teeth
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Stomach ache
 Palo mulato Bursera grandifolia
Burseraceae

zA decoction of the
bark is taken as tea
against fever

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

 Palo mulato Bursera grandifolia
Burseraceae

z Headache

z Stomachache
(branch decoction
applied topically as Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

poultice)
 Papayo
Carica papaya - Caricaceae

z Asthma (boiled leaves

as plaster)
z Digestive (pulp)
z Insect bite (latex)
z Meat tenderizer (seeds) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Seeds used to expel

worms
 Pata de vaca Bauhinia divaricata
Fabaceae

z Asthma
z “Cesido”
z Dysentery
z “Empacho”
z Icterus
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
z Worms
 Pegarropa, Pegajosa
Mentziella hispida -Loasaceae

z Venereal disease

z Depurative

z Purgative
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in pregnancy
 Pica - pica
Mucuna pruriens - Fabaceae

z The “hairs” covering

pod are mixed with
porridge or soft cheese to
expel worms
z This product is ingested
before breakfast
z Avoid in pregnancy
z Allergenic to skin
 Pingüica Ehretia tinifolia
Boraginaceae

z Leaves and fruits

used to make tea for
treatment of
urinary ailments
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Piñoncillo Jatropha curcas
Euphorbiaceae

z Abortifacient
z Candidiasis (oral)
z Oral infections
z Purgative (latex and
roasted seeds)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
z Potentially toxic
z Avoid internally
 Pirúl, Arbol del Perú
Schinus molle - Anacardiaceae

z Tea made from leaves is

used to treat diverse
ailments including:
colic, conjunctivitis,
coughs, gonorrhea,
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
rheumatism and
tuberculosis
z The plant can be a skin
allergen
 Pitahaya
Lemaireocereus thurberi - Cactaceae

z Teamade from the

plant used to treat
diabetes

z Snakebite(unproven
treatment)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Stings
 Plátano, Banana Musa sapientum
Musaceae

z Fruit is used to treat

gall bladder ailments
and diarrhea
z Fruit peel decoction
taken as tea
z Fruit is rich source of
potassium and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

carbohydrates
Pongolote Cochliospermum vitifolium
Cochlospermaceae

z Enemas (bark
decoction) for
digestive problems
and body cleansing Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Puán Muntingia calabura
Eleocarpaceae

zA decoction made
from the plant is used
externally to treat
measles, urticaria and
skin infections
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Quelite, Bledo, Lamb’s quarters
Amaranthus hybridus - Amaranthaceae

z Tea made from the plant

is used to treat diarrhea
and intestinal -
hemorrhages
z Leaves are edible, but
may contain oxalates Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Externally, the leaves

are applied as a poultice
to treat skin infections
 Quiebra muelas, Milkweed
Asclepias curassavica - Asclepiadaceae

z Boils
(leaf poultice
applied topically)

z Toothache (latex
applied topically)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoidinternal use,
potentially toxic
 Ramón Brosimum alicastrum
Moraceae

z Boils (bark
decoction as tea or
wash)
z Coughs
z Kidney pain
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(leaf decoction as
tea)
 Roble Tabebuia rosea
Bignoniaceae

z Callous feet (bark

applied topically)
z Fever
z Rheumatism
(branch decoction
applied as bath) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Salvia, Sage
Salvia spp. - Lamiaceae

z Tea from leaves is used

to treat menstrual
problems such as hot
flashes in menopause
z Topically as skin
antiseptic
z Avoid in pregnancy and
lactation
 Salvia, Sage

z Essential oil is
neurotoxic, avoid in
epilepsy
z Avoid in patients with
high blood pressure
z Avoid in small children
 Sangre de drago, Sangregrado
Jatropha dioica - Euphorbiaceae

z Applied topically for

alopecia and dandruff
z Branch decoction as
rinse or mouthwash
z Avoid internally
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Drastic purgative
 Sangre de grado
Croton draco - Euphorbiaceae

z Latex from the branch

and fruit applied
topically to treat
candidiasis and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

stomatitis
z Avoid internally
z Drastic purgative
 Saúco, Mexican elder
Sambucus mexicana - Caprifoliaceae

z Arthritis and
rheumatism (leaves-
externally)
z Coughs, bronchitis
(flowers-infusion) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Expectorant
z Whooping cough
 Saúco, Elder
z Unripeberries may
cause digestive upset
(diarrhea, vomiting)

z Avoid bark, root or Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

berries in small
children, as well as
during pregnancy and
lactation
 Sávila, Zábila, Aloe
Aloe spp. - Liliaceae

z Gel is emollient and used

topically for skin cuts,
infections and burns
(usually safe)
z Latex is purgative, used
to treat constipation and Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

diabetes, but may cause

toxicity
 Sávila, Zábila, Aloe

z Leafpreparations may cause

uterine contractions, avoid in
pregnancy and lactation

z Avoid internally, it may be

irritating to intestine and
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
kidneys
 Tabachín Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Fabaceae

z Flower infusion (tea) is

used to treat coughs
and a condition known
as “Oguío” Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Tabaco coyote, Wild tobacco
Nicotiana glauca - Solanaceae

z Arthritis (topical)
z Asthma (smoked)
z Fever (leaves applied on
stomach)
z Headache (leaves
applied on temples) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Tabaco coyote, T. cimarron

z Contains
nicotine
z Avoid in
pregnancy,
lactation, and in
small children
 Taray Eysenhardtia polystachya
Leguminosae

z The bark is used

as a tea (diuretic)
 Táscate, Juniper
Juniperus deppeana - Pinaceae

z Neuralgia –
rheumatism (topical)
z Nocturnal enuresis in
children
z Avoid in pregnancy
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

and lactation
z Avoid internal use
 Tatachinole
Tournefortia hartwegiana - Boraginaceae

zA decoction from the

roots is taken to treat
coughs, kidney
stones, parasites and
rheumatism
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Tepescohuite
Mimosa tenuiflora - Fabaceae

z Burns,wounds
(pulverized bark,
applied topically)

z Gastritis,
ulcers Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

(bark decoction as
tea)
 Texcalama, Amate
Ficus petiolaris - Moraceae
z Chest pains
z Emetic (root)
z Fractures (topical)
z Cathartic
z Stomatitis (latex)
z Emetic (root)
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Avoid in
pregnancy
Tlachichinole Kohleria deppeana
Gesneraciae

zA tea made from the

branches is taken to
treat gastrointestinal
inflammation and
kidney pain
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Tlatlancuaya Irisine celosia
Amaranthaceae

z Anti inflammatory
z Diaphoretic
z Fever
z Insect bites
z Typhoid fever Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Typhus
 Toje Phoradendron californicum
Loranthaceae

z Used to treat boils,

diarrhea and venereal
disease
z Potentially toxic
z Avoid in pregnancy
z May cause hypotension Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
 Toloache Datura stramonium
Solanaceae

z Asthma ( smoked as
cigarrettes)
z Applied topically for
skin boils
z Hallucinogenic (seeds) Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Rheumatism (topical)
z Used in ethnic rituals
z Toxic, Avoid Use
 Tronador Kalanchoe pinnata
Crassulaceae

z African plant
z
z Antiinflammatory
z Burns (topically)
 Tulipán Hibiscus sinensis
Malvaceae

z “Ascedio”

z Candidiasis (thrush)
 Tulipán de monte
Malvaviscus arboreus - Malvaceae

z Dysentery

z Gall bladder
ailments

z Stomachache
 Tumbavaqueros Ipomoea stans
Convolvulaceae

z Epilepsy

z Hepatitis

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Nervousness

z Root decoction
 Uña de gato Martynia annua
Martyniaceae

z Epilepsy (seed
decoction)
z Unrelated to plant
from South
Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
America with the
same common
name (Uncaria
tomentosa)
 Vara Blanca
Croton fragilis - Euphorbiaceae

z Diarrhea

z Purgative

z Stomach upset Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

z Malaria
(bark decoction as
tea)
 Wereke, Guareque
Ibervillea sonorae - Cucurbitaceae

z Thedried root is used to

make a decoction to treat
diabetes

z Pulverized root is applied to

Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine
skin as an antiseptic

z Avoid in pregnancy and

lactation
 Zapo, Lomboy blanco
Jatropha cinerea - Euphorbiaceae

z Scabs and skin

infections (leaf
decoction)
z Candidiasis (rinse)
z Sap purgative
z Avoid in
pregnancy
 Zapote blanco, White sapota
Casimiroa edulis - Rutaceae

zA decoction of the
seeds and leaves is
used to treat insomnia
and high blood
pressure
z Seeds are hypnotic; Photo courtesy of Mexico Desconocido Magazine

toxic in large doses

z Avoid in pregnancy
 Zacatechichi Calea zacatechichi
Asteraceae

z Tea from the leaves

promotes appetite and
is also used to treat
fever and stomach
ailments, such as colic, Photo Courtesy of México Desconocido Magazine

and diarrhea
 Zoapatle, Cíhuatlpatli

z Tea from the leaves is

used to promote labor and
as a contraceptive

z Avoid in pregnancy and

lactation (potentially toxic
to both mother and child) Photo by Dr. Robert Bye,
from Plantas de México al Mundo

z Avoid internally
Selected Bibliography on Mexican Plants
Adame J, Adame H. Plantas Curativas del Noreste Mexicano.
Monterrey, Mexico: Ediciones Castillo; 2000.

Aguilar A. Plantas Medicinales del Centro de México.

México City: Guías Prácticas México Desconocido; 1999.

Argueta A. Atlas de las Plantas de la Medicina Tradicional Mexicana. 3 Vols.

Mexico City: Instituto Nacional Indigenista; 1994

Cabrera R. Yerbario mexicano.

Mexico City: Gomez-Gomez Hermanos; 1988.

Chávez M, Franco I, González M. Tlatenco: Tradición Herbolaria y Remedios Caseros.

Mexico City: INAH; 2003.

Gispert M, Rodriguez H . Los Coras: Plantas Alimenticias y Medicinales De Su Ambiente Natural.

Mexico City: CONACULTA; 1998.

González M. Plantas Medicinales del Noreste de México.

Monterrey, Mexico: IMSS-Vitro; 1998.

González-Stuart A. Plantas Tóxicas Para El Ganado.

Mexico City: Editorial Limusa; 1990.

Johnson D, Moreno S, Lopez R. Compendio Fitoquímico de La Medicina Tradicional Herbolaria de Sonora.

Hermosillo: Universidad de Sonora; 1996.

Linares E, Flores B, Bye R. Selección de Plantas Medicinales de México.

Mexico City: Limusa; 1994.
 Selected Bibliography on Mexican Plants
Lozoya, X. Plantas Medicinales Prehispánicas.
Arqueologia Mexicana 2000: 7 (39) 14-21.

Lozoya, X. Tziuhpatli: Herba Officinalis.

Mexico City: SSA-UNAM;1999.

Martínez M. Las Plantas Medicinales de México.

Mexico City: Editorial Botas; 1989.

Vázquez, R Plantas Medicinales del Noroeste de México.

Mexico City: Guías México Desconocido # 4; 1999.

Zamora I, Barquin M. Estudio de La Relacion Planta-Hombre En Los Municipios de Mineral del Monte y Mineral del Chico,
Estado de Hidalgo. Pachuca: Gobierno del Estado de Hidalgo;1997.