Chaparral Leaf
Common Name
Standardized: chaparral
Other: creosote bush
Botanical Name
Larrea tridentata (Sesse & Moc. ex DC.) Coville
Plant Family: Zygophyllaceae
Synonyms
Larrea mexicana
Overview
Native to the Southwestern US, chaparral is one of the oldest plants on earth, with a stand in the Mojave desert estimated to be over 11,000 years old. The stems and leaves of the bush are covered with a sticky resin that screens leaves against ultraviolet radiation, reduces water loss, and poisons or repels most herbivores. This resin is used in herbalism and to protect wood from insects. It received its name "creosote bush" due to the smell that comes from it when it rains. Its extremely bitter taste keeps it safe from animals that would otherwise graze upon it. It is also regarded as one of the most adaptable desert plants in the world; it was one of the first to grow back in Yucca Flats after the 1962 nuclear bomb tests done there.
Parts Used
Above-ground parts of the plant.
Typical Preparations
Tinctures used to make creams and lotions for external use. Seldom found encapsulated or as an extract.
Summary
Chaparral contains lignans that are very similar to estrogen, giving it an effect on the skin similar to that of soy taken internally.
The Health Benefits of Chaparral
1) It’s used as a mouthwash, regardless of the disagreeable flavor and odor. It may completely get rid of the bacteria leading to tooth decay.
2) Chaparral has strong antifungal and antimicrobial properties and is a treatment frequently utilized to kill parasites that are living in our bodies.
3) For a treatment for burns, the resin that resides in the chaparral leaf is used from time to time.
4) Chaparral tea is typically used to alleviate respiratory difficulties, for example, colds and bronchitis. It’s an all-natural expectorant and will help keep the airways clear of excessive mucus.
5) The herb has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate conditions, for example, arthritis. It has already been utilized to soothe the itchiness of chicken pox.
6) Externally, the herb was used to soothe skin rashes and heal bruises, prevent disease, and heal wounds. It’s especially advantageous for sufferers of eczema and psoriasis.
7) An infusion of the herb may be utilized to help ward off dandruff.
8) Using chaparral in tea form or capsules is advantageous for problems with the body’s digestive system.
9) It’s believed to be a good herb in combating the signs of cancer and is regularly suggested by natural medicine practitioners when cancer is identified in the belly, liver, or kidneys. This is because of the strong antioxidant properties that the herb contains. There has been certain research done that proposes that the herb might have the ability to inhibit the development of tumors.
10) The anti-oxidant qualities of chaparral may be advantageous for cleaning the blood and helping the body to age more slowly. The antioxidant properties may be advantageous for gout sufferers, as well.
11) Lastly, chaparral supplements might have a favorable impact on the body’s circulation.
Precautions:
Chaparral Side Effects
The power of the herb makes it something for very young kids to avoid. Older kids or even the elderly should be able to make use of the herb without issue, but they should start with a mild dose to see how their body handles it. As high dosages and prolonged use could end up causing one to experience an adverse effect, it’s not recommended for people that have kidney problems. Because of the strong effects of chaparral, it’s important to seek advice from your healthcare provider before making use of the herb.
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a
qualified healthcare practitioner. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner before use if you have any history of liver or kidney
disease. Discontinue use if nausea, fever, fatigue, or jaundice occur.
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner
before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing,
or on any medications.