Boldo Leaf

History and Uses:
Boldo is native to Chile and Peru, and is currently cultivated in Morocco as well. Traditionally, Boldo Leaf has been used in South America in the treatment of liver

ailments, such as hepatitis, and it was also used there to treat cystitis, gonorrhea and bladder infections. Recent excavations of Monte Verde, an area in southern Chile, unearthed evidence of the medicinal use of twenty-two varieties of plants by people thought to have lived there more than ten thousand years ago, and among these plants was Boldo, which archeologists found wrapped in seaweed. When chewed by individuals who had been severely injured or who required some kind of surgery, this combination of

plants may have provided both painkilling and mind-altering properties. Boldo Leaf is a liver and gallbladder stimulant and has been used to treat gallstones. It has also been found to be a mild laxative and can be helpful in relieving gastrointestinal spasms and flatulence. In addition, Boldo Leaf has shown promise in the treatment of dysmenorrhea and gout as well. Furthermore, it is said to be an effective diuretic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Boldo Leaf has also been used as a mild sedative.