The matico, whose scientific name is Globular Buddleja, It is a medicinal plant typical of the Andean region in the south of the American continent.
It grows mainly in Chile, Argentina, Peru and Bolivia, and is mainly used for its healing principles.
One of the most common names for this plant is “soldier’s herb”, precisely because it is used for wounds and to stop bleeding during war.
Its main differentiation from other similar plants is due to the flower petals which form an almost perfect sphere.
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Properties of matico and its medicinal benefits
As we have said, one of the most notable uses of the properties of matico as a medicinal herb is due to its healing and anti-hemorrhagic active ingredients.
The same components that help counter bleeding and heal wounds are those that allow its use to treat digestive problems, such as stomach ulcers, diarrhea or indigestion of all kinds. In this case, it must be consumed as an infusion.
It can be used to soothe toothaches as it clears infections while soothing pain. The same applies to wounds on the gums, of which matico has proven to be a good healer.
Another of the widespread uses of matico is one of the most widely used aphrodisiac herbs for women and men in Peru.
matic for the skin
The infusion of matico can also be used for external use, such as to clean wounds or skin damaged by herpes, infections or acne.
Many people crush the leaves directly to apply it, for example, to skin with insect bites or burns, although so-called matico water is usually used. It is a decoction of matico leaves and this water is kept in the refrigerator and used throughout the day.
It is also widely used, especially in Chile and Peru, in soaps to obtain these spectacular benefits. As the phytocosmetics specialists at Piuke tell us, they produce a matico soap that, in addition to being protective for the , is exfoliating.
It has also been found to be effective in treating problems related to the digestive system, but external, such as hemorrhoids, besides being a home remedy for hemorrhoids, etc.
Another of the ancestral uses of this plant is to treat insect bites or leeches.
It is not uncommon to find creams to treat various skin conditions or to heal wounds based on this plant, especially marketed in the Andes region. The possible cures of matico for the skin are quite extensive.
Benefiting from the properties of matico is possible in addition to the aforementioned creams and infusions, through other products such as extract, poultices or syrup.
Main benefits and most popular uses
The most common diseases and conditions treated with matico and the most widespread uses are:
- like a cure
- To stop the bleeding
- Herpes
- bites
- Hemorrhoids
- for stomach aches
- soothe colic
- Acne
- Diarrhea
- Aphrodisiac
How to prepare matico infusion
The matico infusion is prepared from the leaves of the plant. The proportion is one tablespoon of these leaves for each liter of water. It should not boil, but should be infused for 10-15 minutes.
It can be accompanied by honey, agave syrup or any healthy sweetener for more pleasure when consumed.
Contraindications of matico
Among the contraindications or side effects of matico, so far they are only related to the allergy of this plant.
The matico can be used during pregnancy, as it is not classified in the list of abortifacient plants, which could pose a risk to the baby or accelerate labor.
In any case, before consumption, both during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, it is best to consult a doctor.