- Region
- South America
- Origin
- Tropical America, from Mexico to the Amazon
South America · Herb · № 885
Piper aduncum
Herb · South America
Peruvian matico (spiked pepper)
Piper aduncum
A shrub of the pepper family with rough, fragrant leaves. The leaf was traditionally used to stop bleeding; research is limited.
Safety notes
Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Have deep or infected wounds assessed by a doctor. 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 (2)
- Healing traditions of the Americas: Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Kallawaya healing in Bolivia: Discharge and genital sores need a doctor.
Preparation
Leaf as a tea; externally as a wash or crushed on wounds.
Use in traditions
According to legend, a wounded Spanish soldier called Matico learned from Indigenous people that the leaf stops bleeding; hence the name 'soldier's herb'. In Peru it was used for bleeding and ulcers, and in the north also for coughs, bronchitis and fungal infections. Not to be confused with the Chilean matico (Buddleja globosa).
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.
Healing traditions of the Americas
Attributed effects
For cough and bronchitis; as a wash or compress on wounds.
Preparation and amount
Steep a few leaves for 10 minutes; boil longer for a wash.
Caution: Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Kallawaya healing in Bolivia
Attributed effects
For vaginal discharge; as a wash for sores; baths for rheumatism.
Preparation and amount
Steep the leaves; boil a generous amount for a bath.
Caution: Discharge and genital sores need a doctor.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)Steam and bath