Matico
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Matico is a tall shrub; dried matico leaves are available from herb dealers.
Where Found
Found in Peru
Medicinal Properties
Astringent, diuretic, stimulant, styptic, tonic
Uses
Historically, herbalists administered matico leaves internally for diarrhea and respiratory complaints. Externally, the powdered leaves were applied to cuts and wounds with the intention of stopping bleeding, and preparations were also employed as a mouthwash. In Peruvian folk tradition, matico was regarded as an aphrodisiac.
How Sold
Dried matico leaves are available from herb dealers.
Bibliography
American Folk Medicine , by Clarence Meyer, Meyerbooks, publisher, PO Box 427, Glenwood, Illinois 60425, 1973 The Herb Book , by John Lust, Bantam Books, 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY. copyright 1974.