Anamu is a medicinal plant of the Petiveria alliacea species. It is rich in flavonoids, sterols, alkaloids, coumarin and benzyl trisulfide, which contain diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic and sedative properties. It is commonly used to help treat headaches, anxiety or rheumatism.
The part of the anamu plant that is normally is the leaves, as they contain active substances with medicinal properties are extracted for the preparation of tea.
Anamu can be purchased in some health food stores and compounding pharmacies. However, it is important for its use to be approved and guided by a doctor or medicinal plant specialist., as this a plant can cause intoxication.
Health benefits
Anamu plants have diuretic, antirheumatic, analgesic, depurative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, abortive, hypoglycemic and antispasmodic properties, and can be indicated for:
- Headaches
- Eye pain
- Rheumatism
- Toothache
- Sore throat
- Memory loss
- Infections, including lung and respiratory infections
This plant can also exert action on the nervous system, and can therefore be used to compliment the treatment of depression, anxiety or epilepsy. It is also able to stimulate cognitive abilities.
Despite having these health benefits, anamu is considered to be toxic. Therefore, it is important to use this medicinal plant as directed by a doctor or medicinal plant specialist.
How to use
Anamu is most commonly used in the form of tea, which is prepared using the dried leaves of this plant.
It is important to note that anamu is a toxic plant and, therefore, its use for therapeutic purposes should be guided by a doctor or medicinal plant specialist.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) of dried anamu leaves;
- 1 cup of water.
Directions
Boil the water and pour it into a cup. Add the dried anamu leaves and let them infuse for about 10 minutes. Strain, wait for it to cool and drink the tea, as advised by your medicinal plant specialist.
This infusion can also be inhaled to help relieve symptoms of anxiety and restlessness.
Possible side effects
Anamu can exert action on the brain, and prolonged or excessive use can result in drowsiness, insomnia, restlessness, hallucinations, apathy, mental confusion, tremors, lack of motor coordination, changes in the central nervous system, convulsions and even death.
Therefore, anamu should only be used under medical supervision or under the guidance of a medicinal health specialist, as trained professionals are able to indicate the correct dose and treatment duration of this plant.
Contraindications for use
Anamu should not be used by pregnant women, as it has an abortive effect. This plant should not be used by children or women who are breastfeeding.
Anamu should also not be used by people with circulatory or heart problems, or who use anticoagulants, such as warfarin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.