Lieutenant is a medicinal plant, also known as Pau bitter, Quassia or Quina, widely used as a natural treatment of stomach problems, infections and inflammation. Its scientific name is Quassia amara L. and can be used in the form of dried leaves, wood chips, powder or essential oil, for consumption in the form of teas or to apply on the skin.
The benefits of Lieutenant Stick include action against appetite changes, digestive difficulties, dyspepsia, infestations caused by worms. This plant is found in natural products stores and some handling pharmacies.
What is it for
The Lieutenant Pau has several health benefits, among them:
- Treatment of stomach ulcers, as it improves the lining of the stomach mucosa;
- Reduction of constipation, because the peristaltic movement of the intestine;
- It facilitates digestion and stimulates the appetite due to its tonic effect to the stomach;
- Control of glycemia, improving glycemic profiles in diabetes;
- Treatment of infections such as malaria and leishmaniasis, facilitating recovery;
- Vermífugo, with action against parasitic diseases such as giardiasis and oxyuriasis;
- Antibacterial action;
- Activity against cancer seems to be promising, especially with effects against leukemia;
- Energy and anti-thermal effect.
The extract prepared with stalks and barks of the Pau lieutenant also has insecticidal action against certain insects and mites, and can also be used on the scalp for the treatment of lice.
In addition, many people use the Lieutenant Tea as a way to aid in weight loss because of its digestive and antioxidant effects. Check out also the best teas to stimulate weight loss.
How to use
The leaves of the Lieutenant are the most used parts in the realization of teas, however, the wood shavings or roots can also be used, mainly for the preparation of extracts and compresses.
- Tea stick Lieutenant: Add 2 tablespoons of stick lieutenant to a quart of water and cook for 10 minutes. When starting to boil, remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups a day.
In addition, manipulation pharmacies can also make already separated extracts, powders or essential oils that facilitate the consumption of plant properties.
Possible side effects
Although the stick is not a plant considered to be toxic, it is possible that excessive consumption can cause stomach irritability, nausea and vomiting.
In addition, its constant use may alter fertility due to its action in reducing sperm in men and estrogen in women.
Who should not use
There are no known formal contraindications to the Lieutenant, but should be avoided by people with changes in sex hormones or by menopausal women, as it may cause a slight worsening of symptoms.
It should also not be used by pregnant or nursing women.
