The Santa Maria herb (Dysphania ambrosioides), also known as wormseed, Mexican tea, epazote, or mastruz, is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine in Brazil and across Latin America. With its strong aroma and therapeutic properties, it has been valued for generations as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues — from digestive concerns to respiratory support.
If you haven’t heard of the Santa Maria herb before, here are 10 reasons why this plant deserves a place in your garden, backyard, or herbal medicine collection.
1. Natural Worm Expelling Properties
The most well-known use of the Santa Maria herb is as a natural vermifuge. The tea or infusion made from its leaves and flowers is traditionally used to help expel intestinal parasites in both humans and animals. Its main active compound, ascaridole, is responsible for this potent effect.
2. Support for Respiratory Health
Epazote is often used in folk medicine to help with coughs, bronchitis, and colds. Drinking a warm infusion can help loosen mucus and ease breathing, making it a trusted home remedy during the winter or times of low immunity.
3. Easy to Grow and Maintain
The Santa Maria herb grows easily in a variety of soils and climates. It’s a hardy plant that requires little maintenance, thriving both in rural gardens and urban pots as long as it receives good sunlight.
4. Topical Applications
Beyond its internal uses, the Santa Maria herb is applied externally in traditional medicine. Crushed leaves mixed with oil or homemade ointments are used to help relieve muscle pain, rheumatism, and even insect bites.
5. Rich in Bioactive Compounds
Research has found that the Santa Maria herb contains compounds such as flavonoids and terpenes, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These natural chemicals help explain its long-standing use in traditional healing practices.
6. Aid in Physical Recovery
In many communities, mastruz is consumed by people recovering from illness or after intense physical activity. It is believed to help restore energy and strengthen the body.
7. Natural Insect Repellent
Another interesting benefit of the Santa Maria herb is its role as a natural insect repellent. Its strong scent helps keep pests and insects away, making it useful for planting near other crops as a form of natural protection.
8. Low Cost and High Yield
Growing this plant is inexpensive, and it can be harvested multiple times throughout the year. This makes it a cost-effective way to have a constant supply for medicinal and household purposes.
9. Versatile Preparation Methods
The Santa Maria herb can be used in many ways: teas, juices, syrups, crushed with milk or honey, and even in some traditional recipes. This versatility makes it a practical and multifunctional addition to any herbal garden.
10. Part of Cultural Heritage
Using and growing the Santa Maria herb helps preserve traditional medicine knowledge passed down through generations. In many rural areas, it is a symbol of natural care and community health.
Tips for Growing the Santa Maria Herb at Home
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Plant in a spot with full sunlight for best growth.
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Use well-drained soil to avoid excess moisture around the roots.
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Water moderately, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
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Prune regularly to encourage new leaf growth.
Precautions and Contraindications
Despite its benefits, the Santa Maria herb should be used in moderation. Excessive use may cause side effects due to ascaridole content. Children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with liver conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Conclusion
The Santa Maria herb combines medicinal power, easy cultivation, and cultural importance. Its many uses have kept it among the most popular plants in Brazilian and Latin American traditional medicine. Having this plant at home means having a versatile, natural ally for health care and a living link to centuries of herbal knowledge.
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