Botanical Overview
Peperomia pellucida is a small, succulent herbaceous plant of the Piperaceae family, commonly known as Clearweed, Shiny bush, or Pepper elder. It grows widely in tropical regions of America, Southeast Asia, and West Africa. The whole plant, especially the leaves, is traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and moistening in nature. It has a bitter, pungent, and slightly sour taste, exerts a relaxing tonic effect, and predominantly influences the body’s fluids.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
- Diuretic
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
Indications
Western
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Edema
- Urinary discomfort
- Skin infections
Syndromes
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Cystitis
- Wounds
- Fever
TCM
- Heat syndrome
- Inflammation
- Painful joints
- Fever
Syndromes
Ayurveda
- Inflammation
- Joint pain
- Skin disorders
Syndromes
- Vata-Pitta imbalance
- Arthritis
- Skin eruptions
Unani
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Urinary difficulties
Syndromes
- Waram (inflammation)
- Bahaq (edema)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, and saponins which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 5-10 g dried plant per 200 mL water, 1-3 times daily
- Fresh juice: 10-30 mL daily
- Poultice: Fresh leaves applied topically
Safety & Contraindications
Peperomia pellucida is generally regarded as safe in traditional use. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited clinical data. Avoid use in persons with hypersensitivity to the plant. No significant drug interactions have been reported, though caution is suggested when combined with diuretics and anti-inflammatory medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No credible planetary or elemental rulers are documented in reputable esoteric sources for Peperomia pellucida.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of the Philippines
- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Peperomia pellucida (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2004)
- Phytochemical and antimicrobial properties of Peperomia pellucida (Tropical Medicinal Plants, 2015)
- Herbal Energetics and Applications (Ayurvedic Herbalism, David Frawley, 2000)