Table of contents
Do you know the Weed?
Known as pimenta d'água, the herb is a medicinal plant, known for its numerous properties, being used as an anti-inflammatory and healing agent. Given its effectiveness, it is used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, being even marketed in capsules and tablets.
The herb is known by several names, which can leave people who consume it a little confused. Mostly, it is known as pimenta-do-brejo, persiacaria, capiçoba, cataia and curage.
Its scientific name is Polygonum hydropiper and it can also be used in the form of tea or even seat bath. To better understand the origin, benefits and uses of this herb, continue reading!
Understanding more about Weed
Having the most varied applications, the herb is one of the most useful medicinal plants among the phytotherapeutic treatments. It is very important to know its benefits, characteristics and uses, because it is really multipurpose when the subject is health and care.
Check now the main characteristics of the herb and how it can help your health!
Origin and history of the plant Erva-de-Bicho
The herb comes from North America and is known for being spicy, even its tea, unlike most herb teas, is quite spicy.
The great difficulty in cataloguing or talking about the herb is that it is known in many ways, and in its medicinal use by villages, for example, it is given many names. Its results are always divided into its many classifications, but eelgrass and water pepper are the most popular.
Benefits of Weed
The benefits of Erva-de-Bicho, used in the most diverse forms, are many. It helps in the combat of urinary infections, muscular pains, arthritis, problems of bad blood circulation, rheumatism and even in the control of diabetes.
When used in the form of tea or pills, it has a greater action throughout the cardiovascular system, with a gradual action inside the body, from inside to outside. However, it can be used in creams, in the external area, treating skin problems, since it is a cicatrizing agent.
Weed Characteristics
Reminiscent of a glass-of-milk flower core, but with pinkish tones, the worm grass can be a great ornament for the garden of your home. Its body is all composed of little balls, which makes it easy to macerate to apply it on the skin, for example.
The flower is always on the top, being attached by a long stem that leads to the leaves at the bottom. It is easy to identify, which is a great feature for those who wish to cultivate it.
Properties of the plant Erva-de-Bicho
Timothy has a number of active ingredients that make it multipurpose. Tadeonal and warburganal, which help as diuretics and give the plant its spicy taste, as well as rutin, which makes it a little bitter.
Some essential oils are present, which are, composed mostly of alpha-pyrene, beta-pyrene, cineol, fenchone, alpha-humulene, beta-caryophyllene, trans-beta-bergamotene, which give it antioxidant action and strengthening vitamins. It is also rich in some acids, such as cinnamic, valeric and caproic.
What is the use of Erva-de-Bicho
The herb has a number of possible applications in health treatment, being one of the most complete plants in natural medicinal treatments. And, although it has several fronts, it is important to understand how it helps in each of the niches in which it is effective.
It is known mainly for its healing and anti-inflammatory actions. Check out the main uses of the famous herb and how it should be used in each case!
Healing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action
One of its most famous advantages is that it is a great ally in fighting inflammation and even aging, since it has antioxidant action. This anti-inflammatory power makes it very effective in the treatment of wounds and their healing, since it disinfects, cleans and helps regenerate the skin.
The use of the herb goes beyond, since, in some cases, it is recommended for the treatment of acne and other specific inflammations in the epidermis, such as erysipelas. However, it is valid to say that, because it is a plant with a large load of natural acids, if applied incorrectly, it can cause burns.
Analgesic action
When consumed, the herb has an analgesic action that can act in a localized or generalized manner. Its benefits are multiple, but it has been proven to help reduce the discomfort and sensitivity of arthritis and rheumatism.
In addition, it acts as a muscle relaxant throughout the body, and can be a natural remedy for those suffering from low back pain, for example, or any intense muscle pain. And, of course, it has the fact that it is natural, making everything easier and healthier, not assaulting the stomach.
Helps blood circulation
With its anti-inflammatory potential, the herb can help in the better functioning of the blood circulation, since many of the circulation problems are caused by small inflammations located throughout the cardiovascular system, compromising the entire quality of life of those who have these problems.
The plant is so important in this field that in many cases it is used as part of the treatment of varicose veins and varicose veins, also aligning its healing effects, helping to restore these veins and repair injured skin.
Reduces fluid retention
With diuretic properties, the herb helps, and a lot, in the kidney functions. Thus, it helps to reduce the swelling caused by fluid retention that some people develop due to malfunction of the kidneys.
It is worth saying that this happens in a healthy way, since there are some weight loss products that work by overloading the kidneys. Weed increases the metabolism, causing the kidneys to consume more water, eliminating more urine.
Relieves menstrual cramps
Uniting two great functions of the herb, menstrual cramps are relieved with its analgesic power, which relaxes the muscles that contract the uterus, as well as helping to deflate the vessels, using its anti-inflammatory action.
It is worth saying that the herb helps the body to expel menstrual blood, being strictly forbidden for pregnant women, because it is considered an abortifacient. In the case of menstruation, the help to expel this blood also helps in pain control.
Helps in the treatment of diabetes
A study proved that the herb also helps in the control of diabetes, since it makes a kind of 'dosage' of glucose in the body, leaving the body with no high sugar (diabetes), nor low (hypoglycemia).
It is valid to say that the herb cannot and should not make the control of diabetes alone, since each diabetes is the deficiency or excess of some substance and needs the proper medicines. Talk to your doctor and try to add the herb in your routine and treatment. You should not make any interruption without the supervision of a doctor.
Helps in the treatment of urinary infections
The herb has a great diuretic power and when we talk about urinary tract infections, which are usually caused by bacteria or substances that accumulate in the urethra canal and even in the bladder, the herb, with its power of cleaning liquids, can help a lot.
It stimulates the production and consumption of liquids in the body, so that if there is any dirt in the urethra canal, it is expelled through urine. And, with its anti-inflammatory power, it acts, in case there is any small inflammation in the place.
Acts against insomnia
Although it does not have a calming effect per se, the herb has properties that relax the muscles, removing possible pain and bringing a sense of well-being. Normally, those who have insomnia crises have a more rigid body, which makes it difficult to relax.
A herbal tea just before going to bed can be the secret for a night of sleep without pain or discomfort in the body. Sleep, besides gaining a higher quality, because of relaxation, will still be restorative, because the tea acts in several ways in the body.
Improves hair health
Besides its medicinal properties, the herb also has some vitamins that help in the growth of nails and hair, making them stronger and more resistant. Therefore, during the use, it is normal that people see a significant improvement in the strands.
It's worth saying that hair shows a lot of our health, since it's the first thing to weaken when we're not so well. Always notice how your hair looks and how you're feeling. This can have a direct connection.
Acts in the treatment of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are nothing more than uncomfortable and painful inflammations. Thus, the herb, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory action, can help combat these enemies of comfort. The healing action also contributes to the improvement of the condition in a short time.
In this case, it is recommended that you, in addition to tea or local ointment, also do a sitz bath, which is a way to leave the site in contact with the herb water, making the process is much less painful and uncomfortable.
How to take Weed
There are 3 main ways to use worm grass, all easily accessible, that you can reproduce in your home. Each application is for a certain niche or need and should be made respecting the recipe, only multiplying, if you want a larger amount.
There is also another alternative, which is the use of pills, which can be easily found. Check out now the main ways to take worm grass and how you can make them at home!
Weed tea recipe
The first recipe, and perhaps the most important, is the herb tea. Very effective in most of the herb's proficiencies, it being used orally helps in the good functioning of the kidneys, the cardiovascular system, in the muscular relaxation and even in the growth of nails and hair, since it is a source of vitamins.
Teas are really miraculous when we talk about disease control, especially when we talk about an herb as potent as yarrow. And although it is very effective, the tea is a bit spicy, which may not please most palates.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of worm grass, which can be found in open-air markets and natural products stores;
- 1 liter of water;
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (if desired, although the effects are enhanced without the addition of sugar).
How to do
Place the spoonfuls of herb and water on the fire. In a pot, wait until the water boils (100ºC) and cover the pot so that the water with the herb does not evaporate. Turn off the heat and let the mixture rest for approximately 10 minutes. After it has become warm, strain only the part you are going to drink and leave the rest with the leaves in the pot or container used.
If you want to drink it sweetened, put a small spoonful of sugar and mix in your glass. It is important to emphasize that this tea should be consumed only on the day it is prepared. If you have some of the mixture left over for the next day, throw it away and make another tea, if you feel like it.
Sitz bath with Weed
Sitting bath is an ancient way to cure hemorrhoids and, when we talk about the herb, this technique is even more effective. It basically consists of leaving the person sitting on a kind of unsweetened tea, so that the exposed part is in contact with the medicine of the water.
The water from the sitz bath, in the case of worm grass, can be effective to care for injuries in other parts of the body. Just reproduce the same recipe and, instead of using it in this intimate bath, use it washing the injured part.
Ingredients
- 20 g of worm grass (that's approximately 4 spoons);
- 1 liter of boiling water.
Directions
Unlike tea, which must come to a boil with the herb already in the water, the sitz bath requires you to put the boiling water in a non-melting, non-aluminum container. Look for heat-resistant plastics. After putting the water into this bowl, put the leaves in and wait.
The water should stay warm, because if it is too hot, you can burn yourself. Still with the leaves in the water, you should sit in the water, in case of hemorrhoids, and if it is for another part of the body, you should wait for the water to reach the ideal temperature and wash the place carefully.
Weed Ointment
Unlike what many people think, it is totally possible to make a homemade ointment of eelgrass, which can serve for normal skin inflammations, some types of dermatitis and even for acne or the marks left by it, since the herb is a natural healer.
The advantage of the ointment is that you can leave the herb a longer time in contact with the skin. You can, for example, pass it and go to sleep, without demanding a longer time waiting for water to cool down to come into contact with the skin.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of the dried leaves of the worm grass; they are usually found in open-air markets or in natural products stores;
- 100 ml of mineral oil;
- 30 ml of liquid paraffin.
How to do
Place the leaves, along with the oil in a sufficient quantity to leave it submerged in this oil. Ideally, you should place the herb first and the oil on top, so that you don't run the risk of the leaves being left floating in the oil. Turn on the heat and when it comes to a boil, about 10 minutes later, turn it off.
During all this process, you should keep stirring the pot, so that the oil is all 'flavored' by the leaves. After that, you should strain the mixture and add it to the liquid paraffin in the same measure. If you have given 100ml of oil, add 100ml of liquid paraffin. Mix it until it is homogeneous and then store it in a container with a lid.
Weed tablet
Different from all the other products that can be made at home, the Erva-de-Bicho pills are commercialized in natural products stores or even in pharmacies with herbal medicine sessions. They are, normally, used in treatments of bad circulation, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
The dosage of each tablet varies according to the composition and the percentage of Weed contained in each dosage. Therefore, it is extremely important that you seek a doctor before making use of any of them.
Further information about the Weed
Before making use of any substance, whether natural or not, it is important to know if there are any contraindications, especially when dealing with something as potent as worm grass.
This information is important for you to understand how your body will react to the treatment. Check now the main information about the herb and how it can be used and prescribed!
How often should Erva-de-Bicho be taken?
Unlike a sweet herb tea, for example, which presents no risk at all, regular consumption of Weed tea can be harmful to the stomach. Whether it's the tea or any oral use.
This happens because the plant contains three types of acids that, although they help the body function properly, damage the stomach when ingested in excess. Frequent use of Weed can cause burning, heartburn and even gastritis, in the most severe cases.
It is worth remembering that too much acid in the body changes our entire pH, leaving mucous membranes and fluids more corrosive and acidic.
Possible side effects of Erva-de-Bicho
As it is an acidic substance, some side effects are related to the misuse of this type of product. In contact with the skin for a long time, for example, it causes irritation and a small swelling. It is important to remember to avoid contact of the skin being treated with sunlight, which intensifies the acids present in the herb.
For prolonged consumption, the stomach may become sensitive and more susceptible to heartburn and burning. It is important to understand when the treatment is closed, without continuing on a healthy skin or surface, because it can be harmful.
Contraindications of Erva-de-Bicho
Erva-de-Bicho and its derivatives are contraindicated for people with skin allergies or sensitive skin. In addition, as it has hormones in its natural formula, it is prohibited for babies, children and nursing mothers.
It is strictly forbidden for pregnant women, since its formula is understood as abortifacient, because it stimulates the increase of menstrual flow. Its use, in most cases, should be accompanied by an endocrinologist.
Erva-de-Bicho has several benefits!
The Erva-de-Bicho is a natural treasure that helps in the combat to several chronic diseases that are present in the life of the Brazilian. And, of easy access, it can be the necessary help in several occasions, as with varicose veins, inflammatory problems and even in the control of diabetes.
It is valid to reiterate that no natural treatment should replace the use of medicines without the monitoring of a doctor licensed for this change. But yes, the Erva-de-Bicho is a holy remedy accessible, which can, and much, help you to have the quality of life you crave and deserve. Enjoy!