Belonging to the Apocynaceae family, rauwolfia , despite its rather unusual name, is a plant that has many medicinal properties that can be applied to the treatment and cure of many diseases developed by humans. This is possible thanks to the use of leaves and roots in alternative recipes, such as tea , for example.

Even if it is a natural ingredient, before including it in the treatment of any disease, the doctor should be consulted . This professional guarantees the responsible use of the plant, since excess and incorrect use can develop other complications for the patient’s health.

Another precaution that must be taken is in relation to the use of the correct part of the plant for a certain disease.

rauwolfia benefits

Based on popular knowledge and the history of the use of the plant, it is known that its use can be used to solve various health cases. Rauwolfia root contains a substance known as reserpine . It is well known in alternative medicine for having sedative properties . The plant is native to Asia, having been widely used in India by the Hindu peoples.

Rauwolfia has a tranquilizing, cardiac calming, antipyretic and sedative effect . It also has properties that end painful bowel disorder, dysentery, hardening of the arteries, fever, hypochondria, insomnia, in addition to regulating blood pressure when it has a nervous effect.

The plant was also known for being used in the treatment of mental disorders, such as:  anxiety, paranoia and nervousness.

See also :  Insomnia: infallible tea recipes to sleep better and better

rauwolfia tea

One of the most common ways to use all the plant’s properties for health benefits is through the preparation of tea. For this you will need a liter of filtered water and two tablespoons of dried herb.

The first step is to bring the water to a boil. Give preference to a pot with a lid. This will help in the herb’s infusion process, where it will release all the properties in the water.

As soon as the water starts to bubble, turn off the heat and add the rauwolfia. Let it rest for about 10 minutes, with the container closed. After this time, use a sieve to remove all the herb used in making the tea. The indication is that the treatment is carried out from the intake of up to three cups a day.

See also:  Discover some of the best soothing teas

Care and contraindications

Excessive use of this plant can bring some health complications . So it is good that the doctor is consulted so that these complications are avoided.

Part of this is due to the presence of the alkaloid reserpine, a carcinogenic substance. People with cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, bronchitis, asthma and gastric ulcer should not use the plant.

Depending on the type of disease or allergy that the patient has, the plant can also cause nasal congestion, lethargy, dizziness, gastrointestinal problems, dyspnea, asthenia, edema and urticaria. As for excessive consumption for long periods, the patient can become sterile, in addition to having insomnia, parkinsonism and severe mental depression.