Originally from Tropical America, with a strong presence in the coastal area, abajerú is a shrub of the Chrysobalanaceae family.The plant has edible fruits, also used in the production of sweets, and its leaves, in the form of tea, are effective to treat some diseases, as they have hypoglycemic, antiblenorrhagic, antidiabetic and antirheumatic properties.

The use of abajerú is ornamental and also to stabilize beach edges and prevent erosion. The plant is salt tolerant and survives winter well. It can measure between one and three meters. The color of the leaves varies from green to red, while the bark takes on a grayish or reddish-brown color, with white spots.

Active principles of abajerú

The plant is rich in pomolic acid, which induces cell apoptosis, that is, cell death that occurs in an orderly manner and demands energy for its execution. The abajerú is indicated to treat problems related to gonorrhea, chronic diarrhea, leukorrhea, rheumatism, cancer and type two diabetes.

It is also believed that the use of abajerú is effective in lowering cholesterol and in the weight loss process.

The most used form in these treatments is through tea, made from the leaves of the abajerú. However, its use should be advised by the doctor, as it can bring health benefits, it can also aggravate some problems if consumed in excess.

Preparing the abajeru tea

To prepare the abajerú tea, just put a liter of water to boil. Then add 20 leaves of the plant to boiling water and turn off the heat. Let it rest for about 15 minutes, with the pan covered. Then simply strain and the drink is ready to be consumed.

The recommendation is that the intake does not exceed three cups daily.