Guinea Hen Weed
Petiveria alliacea
Central America, South America, Caribbean
Traditional Uses
Pain relief, inflammation reduction, immune boost, infection treatment
Modern Research Uses
Standardised extract (Esperanza) in early-phase human trials for gastrointestinal tumours and leukaemia; extracts studied for immune support and anti-inflammatory activity; researched for antimicrobial, antiviral and blood-sugar-lowering effects; DTS studied for anticancer and drug-interaction (CYP450) effects
Mechanism of Action
Main compounds are dibenzyl trisulfide (DTS), sulfur compounds, and flavonoids. DTS breaks down the internal scaffolding of tumor cells and blocks their energy supply, may interfere with drug-processing liver enzymes, and thins the blood
Body Systems Affected
Prep & Administration
Toxicity Notes
Musculoskeletal, Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Digestive, Endocrine, Immune, Nervous
Tea, Tincture, Capsule, Topical oil, Poultice, Decoction
Low