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Matico (Piper angustifolia)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Piperaceae
  • Common Names: Matico, Soldier’s Herb, Cordoncillo
  • Parts Used: Leaves, Stems

Description

Piper angustifolia, commonly known as Matico, is a tropical plant native to South America. It has been widely used in traditional Amazonian and Andean medicine for its antimicrobial, hemostatic, and digestive properties. The plant is particularly valued for wound healing and gastrointestinal disorders.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by indigenous Amazonian healers as a wound healer and antiseptic.
  • Traditionally employed to stop bleeding and accelerate tissue regeneration.
  • Used in folk medicine to relieve digestive discomfort, ulcers, and inflammation.
  • Applied as a natural remedy for urinary tract infections and respiratory issues.

Constituents

  • Alkaloids
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Volatile oils
  • Sesquiterpenes
  • Lignans

Actions

  • Antimicrobial
  • Hemostatic (Stops bleeding)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Digestive tonic
  • Expectorant
  • Wound healing

Medicinal Uses

1. Wound Healing and Hemostatic Properties:
Traditionally applied as a poultice to wounds to promote healing and prevent infection.

2. Digestive Support:
Used to soothe stomach ulcers, gastritis, and bloating by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.

3. Urinary Tract Health:
Helps in the treatment of urinary tract infections and kidney inflammation.

4. Respiratory Relief:
Acts as an expectorant to clear mucus and relieve coughs, bronchitis, and congestion.

5. Antimicrobial Effects:
Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful for infections.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied directly to wounds or skin infections.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience skin irritation.
  • High Doses: Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Amazonian Medicine: Used for wound healing, digestion, and infection control.
  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and astringent; supports circulatory and digestive health.
  • Ayurveda: Considered to balance Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

Combinations

  • For Wound Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
  • For Digestive Health: Combine with chamomile and licorice root.
  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with eucalyptus and thyme.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are collected year-round and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Piper angustifolia’s antimicrobial, wound-healing, and digestive-supporting properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Matico remains a highly regarded herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for wound healing, digestive health, and antimicrobial applications.