COLOMBO
COLOMBO
Other Names:
Calumba
.
The root of this shrub
was
used by native Africans as the main remedy against
diarrhea
and dysentery. When the Portuguese colonized Mozambique and Madagascar, in the seventeenth century, it discovered and brought to Europe. Today is at pharmacies around the world to be part of various preparations.
Habitat:
originating in tropical regions of East Africa. Grown in South
America
.
Description:
climber of
evergreen
shrub of the
family
of Menispermáceas, which reaches from 2 to 5 m in height. The root is very fleshy, and can reach up to 7 inches. in diameter.
Used parts:
the root sliced and dried.
Properties and indications:
the root of the Colombian contains several alkaloids chemically similar to the berberina (alkaloid that is found in the
agracejo
and morphine;
bitter
principles (Columbus) and various inert substances (pectin, starch and oxalate) It does not contain tannin. Its properties are:
Tonic
bitter
aperitif and eupéptico (facilitates digestion) It is used in recovering from debilitating
diseases
and in
dyspepsia
(bad digestion)
Antidiarrheal and
intestinal
antiseptic, because of their alkaloids.
Use:
decoction with 10 or 15 grams. Root crushed (one tablespoon) per cup of water. Boil for 10 minutes, and sweeten. Are administered 6 to 8 tablespoons
a
day of the resulting
liquid
.
Precautions:
in high doses
has
toxic effects: nausea, vomiting,
intestinal
colic, and can even cause
respiratory
arrest.
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