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The Herbal Expat

A series of articles geared to inform and open up the world of natural medicine.

Respiratory problems are common in Nicaragua, and Mother Nature has many plants that can help. The strongest and most fast-acting ones that we are familiar with are Guarumo, Cola de Alacrán, and Calaguala.

Guarumo (Cecropia peltrata) is a plentiful and easily recognizable plant found all over Nicaragua. It’s leaves are over a foot in diameter, and the hollow trunks of the tree are a home to stinging ants, so care must be taken when harvesting. Only a single lobe of the multi-lobed leaf is necessary when making a pot of herbal tea.

Cola de Alacrán (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis) has histimine-blocking properties and acts as a bronchodilator. As such, it’s a great herb to have around during allergy season, and a must-have plant in the garden for asthma sufferers.

Calaguala (Polypodium decumanum) is a fern that many folks already have on their patios here in Nicaragua. It supresses coughs and reduces phlegm. Both the leaves and the roots are used in teas and tinctures, respectively.

These herbals, combined in a tea, or made into a tincture, are ideal for the home herbalist. As with any medicinal treatment, follow the advice of an expert before self-medicating. Calaguala is one of Mother Nature’s very safe herbs, even in large doses, but both Guarumo and Cola de Alacrán should be avoided by women who are pregnant.

-Roger Goldsberry is a long-time resident of Nicaragua and is a practicing herbalist for more than 30 years. His wife, Melissa, has time on her hands to write.

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