Botanical Overview
Baccharis trimera is a perennial shrub belonging to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as Carqueja or Brazilian Tea. It is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The parts used medicinally include the aerial parts, leaves, and flowering tops. The plant has a long history of traditional use in the region for various health-supporting purposes.
Energetics
This herb exhibits a cooling temperature and drying moisture characteristic, with bitter and astringent tastes. It is considered to have a tonifying effect, particularly on the digestive and hepatic systems.
Primary Actions
- Cholagogue
- Diuretic
- Digestive tonic
- Hepatoprotective
Indications
Western
- Dyspepsia
- Indigestion
- Gastritis
- Mild liver disorders
- Biliary insufficiency
- Urinary tract infections
- Fluid retention
Syndromes
- Digestive sluggishness
- Hepatic insufficiency
- Mild inflammation of liver and gallbladder
- Edema associated with kidney issues
TCM
Not documented.
Ayurveda
Not documented.
Unani
Not documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Baccharis trimera contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, diterpenes, phenolic acids, essential oils, and triterpenoids. These contribute to its digestive, hepatoprotective, and diuretic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion of aerial parts 2-5 g per cup, 2-3 times daily
- Decoction 10-20 g/L, 1-2 cups daily
- Tincture 1:5 in ethanol 40%, 2-4 mL 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated in traditional use with no major adverse effects reported. Use during pregnancy is not recommended due to lack of sufficient safety data. Individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid this herb. No significant drug interactions have been documented; however, care is advised if combining with other diuretics or liver-active medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No widely recognized planetary or elemental rulers are documented for Baccharis trimera.
Selected References
- Pharmacological and Phytochemical Properties of Baccharis trimera
- Triterpenes and Flavonoids from Baccharis trimera
- Traditional Uses and Safety of Baccharis trimera
- Baccharis trimera (Carqueja): Uses and Phytochemistry