Peumus boldus
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Boldo Peumus boldus |
Boldo - Peumus boldus (in the Monimiaceae family)
Part used: Leaves.
Taste/smell: Astringent, spicy, slightly bitter.
Tendencies: Cooling, drying.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon in one cup of water; or 1:5 dry plant liquid extract:10-40 drops 2-4 times per day in a little water.
Use: (a) Cholagogue, (b) Choleretic, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Hepatoprotective, (e) Mild diuretic, (f) Stomachic, (g) Sedative.
Boldo is used for mild crampy gastrointestinal irritation and gall stones, but not in acute cases. It contains a volatile oil and the alkaloid, boldine, which was shown to be protective in experimental colitis with rat studies.
Contraindications: It is contraindicated with obstruction of the bile duct.