The yellow uxi is a medicinal plant of the species Endopleura uchi, rich in tannins, saponins and coumarins, especially bergenin, with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic and immune stimulating properties. Therefore, this medicinal plant is popularly used as a home remedy to treat inflammation of the uterus, bladder or arthritis.
The normally used part of yellow uxi, which is also known as axuá, pururu, uxi, uxi-liso or uxi-pucu, is the bark, for preparing tea. However, it can also be found in the form of a dietary supplement in capsules or powder.
Yellow uxi originates from the Brazilian Amazon and can be purchased at herbalists, health food stores or compounding pharmacies, and should be used under the guidance of a doctor or other health professional who has experience with the use of medicinal plants.
What is it for
Yellow uxi is indicated for the treatment of various health problems as it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, diuretic, antidiabetic and immunostimulant properties, especially due to the presence of bergenin in its composition, being popularly used for:
- Fibroids;
- Cysts in the ovary or uterus;
- Urinary infections;
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle, caused by polycystic ovary syndrome;
- Endometriosis;
- Menstrual cramps;
- Arthritis;
- Rheumatism;
- Diabetes;
- Stomachache;
- Gastritis or gastric ulcers;
- Kidney stone;
- Intestinal infection;
- Diarrhea;
- Asma;
- High cholesterol.
Although it has many benefits, yellow uxi should not replace medical treatment or be used without guidance from a doctor or healthcare professional with experience in the use of medicinal plants.
How to use
The normally used part of yellow uxi is the bark from which active substances with medicinal properties are extracted.
1. Yellow uxi tea
Yellow uxi tea is widely used by women with the aim of relieving symptoms and helping to treat inflammation of the uterus, fibroids and urinary infections, for example, however it should be used as a complement to the treatment recommended by the doctor.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of yellow uxi peel;
- 1 liter of water.
Preparation mode
Place the yellow uxi peels in water and boil for about 3 to 5 minutes. Then cover and let it rest for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 2 to 3 cups a day.
Furthermore, it is very common to associate the consumption of yellow uxi tea with cat’s claw tea, taken at different times throughout the day, to enhance the immunostimulating and anti-inflammatory properties of both medicinal plants. Find out more about the properties of the cat’s claw medicinal plant.
2. Yellow uxi capsules
Yellow uxi can also be found in capsules and/or powder, in health food stores and compounding pharmacies, which can be taken daily, or as recommended by your doctor.
Doses may vary according to the amount of yellow uxi in the composition of the capsules, and therefore their use should only be done under the guidance of a doctor or a professional with experience in medicinal plants, with individualized doses.
Possible side effects
The side effects of yellow uxi are not yet known. However, when consumed in larger amounts than recommended, it can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.
Therefore, the use of yellow uxi should only be done with medical advice or from a healthcare professional with experience in medicinal plants.
Who shouldn’t use
Yellow uxi should not be used by pregnant women as it may interfere with the fetal formation process.
Furthermore, this medicinal plant should also not be used by children or women while breastfeeding.
Bibliography
- OF OLIVEIRA, RT; et al. Endopleura uchi – A review about its nutritional compounds, biological activities and production market. Food Res Int. 139. 109884, 2021
- MUNIZ, Magno Perêa. Phytochemical study and biological activity of Endopleura uchi Huber Cuatrecasas . Master’s degree in Chemistry, with a concentration in Organic Chemistry, 2013. Federal University of Amazonas – Postgraduate Program in Chemistry.
- PEIXOTO, H.; et al. Bark Extract of the Amazonian Tree Endopleura uchi (Humiriaceae) Extends Lifespan and Enhances Stress Resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans. Molecules. 24. 5; 915, 2019
- SILVA, SL; et al. Antimicrobial activity of bergenin from Endopleura uchi (Huber) Cuatrec. Amazon Act. 39. 1; 187-192, 2009
- DE SÁ HYACIENTH, BM; et al. Endopleura uchi (Huber) Cuatrec, a medicinal plant with potential anti-inflammatory activity: A review of its phytochemistry and biological activities. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 13. 7; 76-83, 2019
