Catinga de mulata is a plant that can be used by both adults and children externally and as a tea. Its use is indicated as a vermifuge, but it also has other medicinal properties. This plant has a neutral taste and should be taken without the addition of sugar.
The Plant
This plant is also known throughout Brazil by its popular names erva de São Marcos, Tanaceto and Atanásia, and in some regions tasneira. Catinga de mulata is easily found all over Brazil and is widely used in Asian, European, and North American countries. The plant, with the scientific name tanacetum vulgare)1 is characterized as a small shrub reaching up to 1 meter in height.
Its leaves are alternate, resembling fern foliage. It produces yellow flowers with a very strong and pleasant scent, which usually bloom mainly in the summer; this is why they are used for making lotions. There are variations of catinga de mulata, and each has its specialty, so you should know its origin before using it.
What It’s Used For
The leaves of the plant are strong allies in fighting muscle pain and are a powerful healing agent2. It is increasingly being used as tea, even though it is specifically indicated for external use and has better results this way. Results have already been observed after using catinga de mulata tea to fight lice and worms, especially in children. Its uses include:
Worms – The plant is a potent vermifuge, as it has a toxic effect that eliminates intestinal worms.
Rheumatism – Powerful oil is extracted from the leaves of catinga de mulata, which helps combat rheumatic pain and should be used externally on the affected areas.
Lice – Due to the toxin it releases, it is a strong ally in fighting insects in general, especially lice.
Regulation of the menstrual cycle – Catinga de mulata tea helps regulate the woman’s menstrual cycle and also reduces premenstrual tension symptoms.
Kidney Problems – A strong ally in fighting kidney stones due to its powerful antioxidant effect.
Tachycardia and epilepsy – Its tea acts in controlling epilepsy and helps reduce tachycardia.
Boils – It is recommended for external use in treating boils and any type of wound. The plant has strong healing power and improves wounds in general.
Asthma – Its infusion is recommended for asthma and bronchitis control, relieving respiratory symptoms.
How to Take
The most common way to use catinga de mulata is externally, but it is also often used as an infusion. To combat muscle, joint, or rheumatic pain it is recommended to use, in addition to oral intake, external application using oil extracted from the leaf to be applied to the inflamed area.
In cases of psoriasis, boils, wounds, and lice, external use is recommended; apply the oil to the entire affected region, let it act for a few minutes, and then wash off with plenty of water. In cases of bronchitis, asthma, joint pain, or kidney problems catinga de mulata tea should be taken, 2 to 3 cups per day.
How to Make Catinga de Mulata Tea
Boil 1 liter of water and after boiling add 2 tablespoons of the herb to a container. Cover the container and let it steep for 10 minutes; this is enough time for the infusion to be ready. Strain the tea, so only the liquid remains for drinking. The recommended daily dosage is 2 to 3 cups at most.
Precautions
As with all herbs, there are recommendations and contraindications, because even though it is natural, it can cause serious health problems. Catinga de mulata is a plant that contains few toxic substances, but the amount can already be harmful for pregnant women and may cause miscarriages. It is also not recommended for children under two years old or for breastfeeding women, as it can pass to the baby through breast milk and cause intoxication.
Consumption of up to three cups per day is recommended. Overdosing can cause vomiting, malaise, chills, and even convulsions. Once again, it is important to remember that the plant has several variations, so extra care should be taken before starting treatment with the herb, and it should only be used under the recommendation of a specialist on the subject.
