Matico
Piper aduncum
Central America, South America
Traditional Uses
Used as a wound-healing herb for cuts, elvers, burns and skin injuries; applied topically for bleeding control; used for diarrhea, dysentery, stomach pain and digestive distubances; also traditionally used for colds, respiratory infections and sore throat, as well as, inflammation and pain relief
Modern Research Uses
Used in some complementary medicine preparations for skin care, minor wounds, digestive support and respiratory complaints; has been investigated for antimicrobial activity, tissue repair potential, anti-inflammatory & antioxidant effects and antiparasitic acitivity
Mechanism of Action
The tannins in matico exert an astringent effect, causing contraction of damaged tissues and helping control minor bleeding while forming a prtective barrier over the wound; flavonoids and phenolic compounds lower oxidative stress and inflammation allowing for a favourable environment for healing; studies suggest the aforementioned may also stimulate collagen deposition and re-epithelialization, accelerating tissue repair
Body Systems Affected
Prep & Administration
Toxicity Notes
Skin, Digestive, Respiratory, Immune, Musculoskeletal, Cardiovascular
Tea, Poultice, Decoction, Topical oil, Liquid/ alcohol-based extracts
Low
Essential oils and concentrated extracts may have higher toxicity potential due to concentrated phenolic compounds; avoid application of concentrated extracts to large wounds without medical guidance; if individual is on prescription anticoagulants (blood thinners) or have bleeding disorders, it should be avoided