El polypodium aureum, Better known as calaguala, it is part of the flora of El Salvador, and is highly appreciated for its medicinal uses. If you still don't know this variety, it's time for you to learn more about it.
Get ready to discover the reasons why it is so valued in its place of origin. We are sure that you will be surprised by all the medicinal properties attributed to it.
What is polypodium aureum like?
Calaguala is a plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of the American continent. Its presence being common in areas humid forests, tropical forests, rainforests and mountainous areas.
In the wild it extends from southern Mexico to South America, with a large presence in El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Colombia, Venezuela and Brazil. Furthermore, as it is a very adaptable plant, it is also possible to find it in some regions of Asia and Africa.
Among the distinctive physical characteristics of this variety we must highlight:
Fronds or foliage
The fronds are made up of simple leaves, lanceolate or oval in shape, with margins that can be entire or slightly toothed, depending on the variety.
One of the distinctive features of this plant is that the fronds reach between 30 and 60 centimeters in length, but They can grow even more if they are exposed to optimal weather conditions.
At the bottom of the fronds we can see the sporangia, which are the reproductive structures. They are grouped in sori that are arranged in rows along the veins of the fronds.
Texture
The fronds of polypodium aureum have a leathery texture, which means they are thick and resistant.
If we look closely, we see that their surfaceThe shiny e on the front contrasts with the slight hairiness on the underside.
Coloration
This type of leaves are usually deep green, although the shade can change depending on the variety and the growing conditions to which it is exposed.
growth habit
Calaguala is an epiphytic plant, which grows attached to other plants instead of on the ground. Although it is possible to find a specimen that grows attached to the rock or the ground, this is very unusual.
Reproduction areas are all those where this plant can grow in optimal conditions, especially in forests and mountainous areas. The spores are spread through the air, animals and pollinating insects, and thus new plants emerge.
In addition, its rhizomes spread quite a bit, which makes the plant spread and form very dense colonies.
Medicinal uses of polypodium aureum
Also known as lizard grass, this plant may not be too striking in appearance. But it is very valued for medicinal uses that are attributed to him thanks to his high composition in sugars, starches, essential oils, potassium nitrate, calahualin, saponin glycosides, osaldin, polipodosapogenin, steroids, glycoretinic acid, fatty oils, resins, fatty oils, bitter ingredients and red coloring.
Dermatological problems
It contributes to the synthesis of collagen, a process that is essential to maintain the skin's autoimmune defenses in optimal conditions. This makes calaguala a good option when treating skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.
In addition, it also has healing properties, so it is usually applied to wounds to ensure that they heal as soon as possible and without leaving marks.
respiratory disorders
Polypodium aureum has been traditionally used to treat a wide variety of respiratory conditions:
- Asthma. Its compounds help reduce inflammation in the airways, providing relief to those affected by asthma.
- Bronchitis. Due to both its anti-inflammatory properties and its expectorant properties, it helps calm the irritation associated with this pathology and promotes the expectoration of mucus.
- Colds and flus. Calaguala infusion is a natural remedy widely used to treat colds and flu, because it helps relieve nasal congestion.
- Chronic respiratory conditions. It can be used as an adjunct to common medical treatment of chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Digestive problems
This variety is also attributed digestive properties that help treat some of the most typical problems related to the digestive system:
- dyspepsia. It is used to treat indigestion or an upset stomach, because its anti-inflammatory properties help calm the irritation that occurs in the stomach lining when there is a problem of this type.
- Colitis. This condition is caused by inflammation in the colon and causes diarrhea and abdominal pain among other symptoms. It is the anti-inflammatory properties of calaguala that help reduce inflammation and reduce symptoms.
- Slow digestion. The infusion of this plant is considered an effective remedy against the feeling of stomach heaviness that can appear after heavy meals. Because it promotes the production of digestive enzymes and improves gastrointestinal function.
How is polypodium aureum consumed?
There are several ways in which this plant can be consumed to enjoy its medicinal properties:
Infusion
The most common thing is to make an infusion with the fronds or roots, boiling them for a few minutes in water. Afterwards, it can be taken hot or cold, according to each person's preferences, because temperature does not affect its properties.
Tincture
It involves macerating the fronds or roots in alcohol for several weeks, stirring occasionally. The tincture is taken diluted in water or juice, and a few drops once or twice a day are enough.
Capsules or tablets
It is now possible to find vitamin supplements made from this plant. In these cases, it is advisable to follow the dosage instructions given by the manufacturer.
Topical application
To treat burns, wounds or other dermatological conditions, a poultice or compress made from fresh leaves is applied. Although it is also possible to find ointments or creams with calaguala extract.
Polypodium aureum is a plant to which many medicinal uses are attributed. However, no scientific study has fully confirmed them. Reason why it is recommended to use it with caution, and always as a complement to current medical treatment, never as the only remedy.