calaguala

the calaguala (Polypodium leucotomos) is a fern that inhabits the tropical forests of Central America. The ancient Mayans already used its rhizome for purifying cures and in more recent times it was indicated for sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis.

In Europe we have a very similar fern, the polypodium, common in forests and rocks, which had been used as a purgative.

However, the medicinal qualities of calaguala are much higher.

calaguala medicinal properties

Various scientific studies have shown the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect of its active ingredients, such as calagualina, polypodin and the fatty acids contained in the rhizome.

Calaguala is credited with the ability to stimulate lymphocytes or cells of the immune system that help fight infections, making it very useful to prevent and mitigate infections in people with the low defenses.Is used as antispasmodic and sudorific in allergic respiratory conditionssuch as bronchitis with spasms, and in flu processes. It is also used as diuretic and antirheumatic to eliminate uric acid and reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Calaguala is also effective in treating Herpes zoster.

Other uses

Calaguala is often used in skin disorders, associated mainly with nervous breakdowns and stress. Modulates the activation of skin cells and prevents the proliferation of dead cells and scaling. It is a natural remedy against psoriasis and vitiligo or partial depigmentation of the skin. It has also been tested as skin regenerator after radiotherapy treatments and, due to its action similar to that of corticosteroids, to relieve allergic reactions as hives, atopic eczema and dermatoses.

Natural remedies with calaguala

To reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and gout: The calaguala is combined in a herbal tea with devil’s claw, cat’s claw and star anise, in equal parts. How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of the mixture for a quarter of a liter of water for 5 minutes, let it rest overnight and strain. Two or three cups are taken a day, on an empty stomach. To treat herpes zoster: Calaguala is combined with valerian and star anise. How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of this mixture per half liter of water for 5 minutes and macerate overnight. Two cups are taken a day, on an empty stomach.Calaguala tea for psoriasis and vitiligo: Calaguala, with its modulating effect on skin cells, helps prevent scaling and depigmentation.As support in the treatment of psoriasis, boil a tablespoon of calaguala with star anise in half a liter of water for 5 minutes and let it rest overnight. Strain and drink a glass before each meal, three months minimum.for vitiligo, the same or the liquid extract, taking two tablespoons a day, mixed with water or fruit juice.

Precautions for use

Due to its richness in tannins, it should be avoided in case of gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcer. It is also not recommended if heart medications are taken and in pregnant women. Mild side effects have been described in continuous intakes, such as the appearance of drowsiness.

how to take

In dried and chopped plant for decoction and maceration, and in liquid or lipid-hydrosoluble extract.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”