Embaúba is the name commonly given to several species of trees, mainly those of the genus Cecropia , which can reach up to 15 meters in height and is one of the pioneer plants of the Atlantic Forest. Its fruits are the sloth animal’s favorite food, for this reason, the embaúba is also known as the “sloth tree”; in addition, its fruits are attractive to several species of birds, so they end up being dispersed quickly. Embaúbas are light trees, undemanding as to the soil, being very common in deforested areas in recovery. Because they have hollow stems and branches, embaúbas live in symbiosis with ants, especially those of the Aztec genus, which inhabit their interior and protect them from herbivorous animals.
Index
Embaúba properties
- It has diuretic action;
- Hypotensive;
- Expectorant;
- Decongestant;
- Healing;
- Antispasmodic;
- Cardiotonic;
- Anti-hemorrhagic;
- Astringent;
- Antiasthmatic;
- Analgesic;
- Antiseptic;
- Hypotensive;
- Vermifuge.
Benefits and indications for use
Embaúba is a medicinal plant that can be used to treat cases of high blood pressure, bronchitis, cough, skin wounds, tachycardia, tuberculosis, asthma, whooping cough and diabetes.
How to use the embaúba?
- Embaúba can be used to prepare teas, infusions, juices, syrups and ointments.
- The juice from the leaves of the plant is used for coughing and respiratory problems, and is also effective in treating wounds caused by poisonous insects.
- In the form of syrup, embaúba is used to treat chronic bronchitis, asthma and whooping cough. To prepare the syrup, just make the decoction of the new fruits of the tree with water and sugar.
- The white mass of the plant’s stem is used in dressings for cancers and serious wounds.
- The decoction of the fresh leaves of the embaúba is used for bathing in gangrenous wounds and some skin conditions. The plant’s bark is used to bathe syphilitic ulcers.
- To prepare the embaúba ointment, its crushed branches are boiled along with the lard, being used as an anti-hemorroidal ointment.
How to prepare the tea
To prepare the embaúba tea, add two tablespoons (soup) to a liter of water. Let it cook for about 10 minutes from the start of boiling. After this period, remove from heat and leave to rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Strain and it’s ready to be ingested. The indication for intake for this tea is two to three cups a day.
Contraindications
The use of embaúba is contraindicated in cases of pregnancy.
