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Estafiate

Compilation by Armando Gonzalez Stuart, PhD

Scientific Name:

Artemisia spp.

Other Common Name:

Cudweed sagewort, Silver sagebrush, Istafiate, Iztauhyátl, Ajenjo del país, Estafiate de Castilla

Parts of the plant used:

Principally the leaves and flowers, and sometimes the stems.

How is it used?

The leaves and flowers are steeped in boiling water to make a tea for the treatment of various ailments, most of which are related to the digestive system.

What is it used for?

Tea made from leaves and stems is used to treat stomachache (colic), diarrhea, fever, and to expel intestinal worms. Externally, a decoction of the plant is used to treat rheumatism and hemorrhoids due to its purported analgesic and anti -inflammatory properties.

 

Safety / Precautions

Safety/Precautions:

  • This plant, of which there many species and varieties throughout the western hemisphere, is closely related to wormwood (ajenjo), with which it shares similar properties.
  • Estafiate seems to be safer than wormwood, at least as a tea for adults, but unfortunately there are no clinical trials to ensure its correct dose or safety.
  • In any case, treatment with this plant should not be prolonged, as the safety of long term use is presently unknown.
  • Estafiate contains some chemical compounds known as terpenes that could be toxic to the nervous system should the patient ingest very concentrated forms of the tea.
  • Estafiate tea should not be ingested by pregnant or lactating women, as well as by small children, especially those under 6 years of age.
  • Patients suffering from Parkinson’s’ disease or other neural disorders should likewise avoid it, just to be on the safe side.

Before you decide to take any medicinal herb or herbal supplement, be sure to consult with your health care professional first. Avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication: Always be on the safe side!