Boldo Herb Profile
Also known as
Peumus boldus, Boldea fragrans, Boldine, Boldoak Boldea, Boldo Folium, Boldus, Boldus Boldus, Peumus fragrans.
Introduction
Boldo is an evergreen native to Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Archaeologists excavating in the Monte Verde region of southern Chile have found boldo in combination with 22 other herbs wrapped in a seaweed basket estimated to be 12,500 years old. The scientists believe that herbal combination was used for pain relief in the severely injured or those needing surgery. The German E Commission reports that boldo increases gastric secretions and has antispasmodic properties. Other contemporary studies show promising results as an anti-inflammatory and as a fever reducer. The Spanish conquistadors observed the Incan natives using boldo leaves as a spice and as a digestif to ease the digestion of large meals. The Incas also used the herb to treat problems of the bladder and prostate. In the 1870's, boldo was introduced to doctors in the US and UK as a treatment for bladder, liver, and stomach discomforts, and has a nervine, or mild sedative.
Constituents
Alkaloids (boldine) and flavonoids, as well as ascaridole, camphor, cineole, linalool, limonene, b-pinene, rhamnetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, resin, and tannins.
Parts Used
Dried leaf.
Typical Preparations
Teas and infusions, or as a capsule or extract.
Summary
Boldo leaves are used to treat bladder and urinary tract infections, gallbladder discomfort, gallstones, heartburn, and mild stomach cramps. The herb works by encouraging the release of bile, dissolving fats, but also by increasing intestinal transit time, that is, giving the digestive tract more time to digest food. The ascaridole attacks intestinal worms. Chilean folk medicine used it as an anthelmintic against worms; this has been attributed to the ascoridole content found in the oil produced by the leaves. The leaves are used to this day as a seasoning in Chilean cooking. The essential oil is used in the perfume industry. It is also an ingredient in liqueurs and bitters.
Precautions
Don't use if there is severe liver disease or obstruction of the bile ducts. Seek advice from a practitioner if you have/had liver or kidney disease.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
