Botanical Name: Peumus boldus
Common Name:
- English: Boldu, Boldus, Boldoa Fragrans
- Also, known as: Boldea fragrans Gay, Boldo, Boldu boldus Lyons
Habitat: South America
Origin: Chile
Harvested: Wild
Parts Used: Leaves
General Information:
Boldo is an evergreen tree native to South America. This aromatic tree can reach a height of about 20-24 feet. The tree has a dark green leaf when a young red-brown when dried. Moreover, white flowers that bear smell edible fruit. The leaves of the plant are opposite about 2-3 inches long entire. Boldo is an aromatic, richly branched shrub. It is an evergreen plant with ovate leathery leaves that have numerous small, wart-like beads on top and slightly rolled at leaf edges. The flowers are small, bell-shaped and white or yellow in color. The fruits are small, yellow, edible berries. The leaves of the plant are used as medicine. They are harvested all year round, dried and used in an herbal tea.
The leaves content numerous isoquinoline alkaloids and about 2% essential oil. Native tribes of South American had been using the leaves of Boldo for hundreds of years, both as a culinary spice and herbal medicine.
Boldo can be found wild in Chile. Still, it is specifically raised in the high areas of the Mediterranean.
How to use:
Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use powdered herb.
Food Preparation: You can add powdered herb to any super food herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. This method is also known as “Electuaries”.
Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, gives you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.
Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.
Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.