Boldo health benefits: Boldo is one of the medicinal plants most used in preparing medicines for treating liver and gall bladder diseases. Several laboratory-produced medicines contain this plant as an essential part. It has some properties that any chemically synthesized product could never achieve.
Boldo is a highly appreciated plant in Chile. Native Andean Indians used it because of its stomachic and digestive properties. It can currently be found in pharmacies and herb shops in Europe and America, still with its primitive Araucanian name.
- BOLDO LEAVES: Boldo Usually found in South America, Boldo leaves or Mosquito Bush leaves can be used in cooking in two ways. Firstly, to make a type of herbal tea, and secondly, as a culinary spice.
Boldo Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name: Peumus boldus Molina.
- French: Boldo.
- Spanish: Boldo.
- Environment: The plant grows wild in Chile and Andean areas of South America. It is cultivated in Italy and North America.
- Description: A tree or shrub of the Monimiaceae family can grow up to 5 m high. Its elliptic, rough leaves and white or yellowish flowers give the whole plant an aroma similar to that of peppermint.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves.
Boldo Health Benefits
The boldo leaves contain around 20 alkaloids derived from aporphine, the most important of which is boldine, which makes up 25 to 30 percent of the total. They also contain essential oil, which gives the plant its typical smell. This essential oil contains eucalyptol, ascaridole, and cymol. The leaves also contain several flavonoids and glycosides (boldoglycine).
The most outstanding properties of this plant are as follows:
- The leaves are choleretic (increases bile production in the liver) and cholagogue (promotes gall bladder emptying). Hence, they are recommended for hepatic congestion, biliary dyskinesia (disorders in gall bladder functions), and biliary colic.
The plant is also helpful for biliary lithiasis (gall stones) and alleviating digestive discomfort and the sensation of distention after meals, which are characteristic of this ailment. Boldo is not able to dissolve gallstones or provoke their expulsion. However, boldo has been proven to produce changes in the bile’s chemical composition and physical properties. Hence, it makes bile more fluid and less lithogenic, forming stones or calculi). Boldo thus prevents the bile from forming new stones or those existing from growing.
- Eupeptic (eases digestion) and appetizer. Boldo is recommended for a bloated stomach, slow digestion, lack of appetite, and bad breath (sour).
- Mildly laxative, probably due to the higher flow of bile in the intestine, which this plant provokes.
Boldo is usually taken with other choleretic and cholagogue plants (artichoke, rosemary) or laxative (alder buckthorn, tinnevelly senna, etc.).
Warning
Never exceed the prescribed dose (four cups a day) since boldo has narcotic and anesthetic properties in high doses, acting on the central nervous system. These effects only occur when taken in high doses and never with those doses recommended here. Even though its impact on the fetus has not been proven, pregnant women should abstain from this plant.
How to use Boldo
- Infusion with 10 to 20 grams of leaves per liter of water. Drink a cup before meals, up to four daily.
- Dry extract. One gram, three or four times a day, before meals.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the primary compounds in boldo that offer health benefits?
Boldine: This alkaloid is the most prevalent active compound in this plant. It offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protective properties.
Flavonoids: The plant contains flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, which offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Essential oils: These include ascaridole, eucalyptol, and limonene, which have antimicrobial and digestive-supporting properties.
How reliable is the research on potential benefits?
While traditional use is extensive, more thorough human studies are needed to fully confirm many of the plant’s purported benefits. Current research comprises a combination of animal studies, test-tube studies, and smaller human trials.
Can it help with liver health?
Preliminary research suggests it has hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects. Studies indicate it may help reduce inflammation and support healthy liver function.
Does the plant have any effect on gallstones?
It is used to stimulate bile flow, which could potentially help prevent gallstone formation. Some studies support this, but further research is needed.
Is it a safe digestive aid?
It is generally considered safe for digestive support in moderate doses. Its stimulating effect on bile production can aid in the digestion of fats.
Can it have antioxidant benefits?
Yes, boldo’s boldine and flavonoid content provides antioxidant effects. This means it can help neutralize cell-damaging free radicals in the body.
Does the plant have any anti-inflammatory properties?
It appears so. Studies suggest its components may reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis. However, more research specifically focused on inflammation is needed.
What are the common forms of consuming boldo?
Tea: Dried boldo leaves are steeped in hot water for a traditional boldo tea.
Capsules/Supplements: Concentrated boldo extracts are available in capsule form.
Tincture: Liquid boldo extracts are sometimes used.
Are there safety concerns or side effects?
The plant is generally considered safe in moderation. Overconsumption can lead to digestive upset.
High doses are not advised due to the presence of ascaridole, which can be toxic in large amounts.
The plant might interact with certain medications, so always consult your doctor.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is best avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding due to a deficit of safety data.
Where can I find reliable information on boldo?
Reputable sources include the National Institutes of Health (NIH) database PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
Research journals focusing on herbal medicine, such as the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
Websites of universities or medical institutions with a focus on natural remedies
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 390, 391. Print. [boldo health benefits]
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology: https://www.sciencedirect.com/
Last update on 2024-05-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API