Contrayerva (Dorstenia contrajerva)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Urticaceae
• Common Names: Contrayerva, Snake Root, Dorstenia
• Parts Used: Rhizome, root

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Description

Dorstenia contrajerva is a perennial herb native to Central and South America, particularly found in tropical forests. The rhizome has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial, diaphoretic, and digestive-stimulating properties. Historically, it was valued in European and indigenous medicine as an antidote for poisoning and venomous bites, as well as a remedy for fevers and digestive ailments.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional indigenous medicine for fevers, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders.
• Employed in European medicine during the colonial period as an antidote to poisons and venoms.
• Applied as a stimulant and tonic to aid recovery from illness.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids
• Coumarins
• Tannins
• Resins
• Alkaloids

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Actions

• Antimicrobial
• Diaphoretic (promotes sweating)
• Carminative (relieves gas and bloating)
• Stimulant
• Febrifuge (reduces fever)
• Antidote (historical use)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Febrifuge and Immune Support:
Traditionally used to help reduce fevers and support the immune system during infections.

2. Digestive and Gastrointestinal Health:
Used to relieve bloating, nausea, and stimulate digestion.

3. Antimicrobial Properties:
May help combat bacterial and fungal infections.

4. Snakebite and Poison Antidote (Historical Use):
Once believed to neutralize poisons and venoms, though not substantiated by modern science.

5. Stimulant and General Tonic:
Employed as a restorative herb to strengthen vitality after illness.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried root per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Applied to insect bites and wounds in traditional use, though scientific validation is limited.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Allergies: Those allergic to plants in the Urticaceae family should use caution.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Indigenous Medicine: Used as a protective remedy against illness and toxins.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Considered warming and stimulating, supporting digestion and circulation.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Fever Support: Combine with elderflower and yarrow.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Immune Strengthening: Combine with echinacea and astragalus.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Rhizomes are collected in the dry season for maximum potency.
• Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Storage: Store dried root material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Limited studies suggest antimicrobial and febrifuge properties, supporting its historical use for infections and fevers.

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Contrayerva remains a valuable herb in traditional medicine, particularly for fever reduction, digestive health, and immune support.