Espinheira Santa and Alternative Health

Deep in the Amazon rainforest exist a multitude of herbs, roots and plants used by the natives as alternative remedies. As Americans become more fascinated by alternative methods of healing and health, these herbs are fast becoming popular. One such byproduct of the Amazon is espinheira santa.

What is an Espinheira Santa?

Part of the evergreen family, the Espinheira Santa (Maytenus ilicifolia) is a shrub-like tree that can grow as high as 16 feet. Indigenous to the Amazon Rainforest, the Espinheira Santa is considered to be quite small when compared to other trees!

What’s so great about Espinheira Santa?

The Espinheira Santa, also known as “Holy Thorn” for its appearance, contains many medicinal qualities that the Amazonian natives have utilized for years. Extracts of the leaves are reported to offer the same relief of antacids and antiulcerogenics, beneficial for those suffering digestive ailments. Espineheira Santa byproducts may also act as analgesics, aiding in pain relief.

Taken internally as a supplement or stewed in a tea, Espinheira Santa offers numerous other health benefits:

• Maytansinoids found in the leaves are known to contribute to antitumorous and anticancerous activities, and have been used in chemotherapy drugs
• Naturally occurring cangorins are known to have anticancerous properties
• Aids in the relief of stomach ailments and constipation
• Aids in the relief of urinary infections and diarrhea
• Believed to help regulate menstrual periods

Does Espinheira Santa cure cancer?

There is yet no research to indicate that Espinheira Santa cures cancer, only that it contains valuable properties for relieving pains and some symptoms found in cancer patients. It is strongly advised that any cancer patients interested in alternative treatment consult with a physician before taking supplements.

Are there side effects to taking Espinheira Santa?

Recent research indicates no common side effects with Espinheira Santa. However, if anyone experiences any adverse reactions while taking this supplement, consult with a doctor immediately.

Enter Espinheira Santa into Internet search and you are bound to find many online shops that sell this herb in supplement form. When you shop for Espinheira Santa make sure you are getting the purest extracts of this herb available, directly from the Amazon Rainforest, in order to receive the full benefits.