Chuchuhuasi

Description

Chuchuhuasi meaning “shaking back”, is a huge canopy tree with large leaves (10-30 cm), small white flowers and extremely hard, heavy, reddish-brown bark. Also known as Maytenus krukovii, M.ebenifolia, M.laevis and M.macrocarpa.

Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses

For centuries they have been used for medicinal purposes and refers to their ancient name, in addition to:

• Remedy for arthritis and rheumatism, requires a cup of bark decoction three times a day for more than a week. They boil a small piece of the bark (5 cm) in 2 liters of water until 1 liter remains, and drink it
• An aphrodisiac
• Tonic to relieve pain and muscle aches to “move on”
• Menstrual pain and stomach pain.

What is Chuchuhuasi and what is it for?

• Maytenus macrocarpa (Chuchuhuasi) is a tree native to the Amazon region of Peru used as a medicinal plant for the treatment of many diseases, however its effect on the male reproductive system has not yet been elucidated.

How is Chuchuhuasi prepared?

• In a bottle, combine the chuchuasi with brandy and let it macerate for three months. After that time, add sugar to a pot until it begins to burn and has melted. Remove from the heat and stir constantly with the lemon juice.

What diseases does Chuquiragua cure?

• The stems, leaves and flowers of this plant are usually used as an infusion to make healing, anti-inflammatory, balsamic, diuretic and antiseptic preparations for the urinary tract and prostate.