Algarrobo (Peruvian mesquite)

Neltuma pallida (syn. Prosopis pallida)

A thorny tree of the pea family, related to mesquite, with sweet pods full of sugars. With its deep roots the tree holds the dry forest together.

Safety notes

The syrup contains a lot of sugar; take care with diabetes. The pollen can cause allergy. The dry forest is heavily cut for charcoal: choose products from a sustainable source. Traditional use is no proof of effect; consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication or have a medical condition.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Curanderismo of northern Peru: The syrup contains a lot of sugar. Do not use the resin on teeth or in the mouth.

Preparation

The ripe pods boiled for hours into a dark syrup, algarrobina. Externally the resin is rubbed on painful joints.

Use in traditions

The pods have been food and fodder on the north coast of Peru since ancient times. The syrup is used for drinks and the algarrobina cocktail; in folk medicine it is regarded as strengthening and given for cough, anaemia and fatigue, and to promote fertility. The resin is massaged into the skin for rheumatism and arthritis.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Curanderismo of northern Peru

Attributed effects

The syrup as a tonic and for cough, anaemia and fatigue; the resin for rheumatism and bone pain.

Preparation and amount

Boil the pods for hours into a thick syrup; a spoonful of syrup in water or milk. Externally: rub the warmed resin into the skin.

Caution: The syrup contains a lot of sugar. Do not use the resin on teeth or in the mouth.

Ways to prepare herbs: Syrup, honey and oxymel

Sources

All herbs from South America →