My sedum investigation began with the positive identification of Colita de burro AKA Donkey’s Tail (Sedum morganianum) which I had growing in my garden. Also known as cola de borrego (sheep’s tail), it seems to be purely ornamental. However, in my research I did find several other species of sedum that were used medicinally here in Mexico.
Siempreviva (Sedum praealtum) is an effective spermicide, 20 percent more effective than Nonoxynol-9 when used as a vaginal postcoital douche. It is also known as shrubby stonecrop and green cockscomb in English and tetzmitl in Nahuatl. Francisco Hernández, Fray Bernardino de Sahagun, and Martín de la Cruz make mention of this plant’s medicinal use by the Aztecs in their writings.
Its leaf sap is applied topically to treat burns, hemorrhoids, gum inflammation, and conjunctivitis. The leaves are chewed and swallowed for dysentery, scurvy, and typhoid. In the state of Morelos, the leaves are chewed for toothache relief, and a leaf warmed on the comal (griddle) is placed over an aching ear. Sedum praealtum has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
For excessive bleeding during menopause, a decoction of sedum is drunk before breakfast until the bleeding has stopped. One tablespoon of this decoction cooled overnight is taken before breakfast for frequent, burning urination.
For tonsil inflammation, the leaves are ground and soaked in vinegar. The gargle is warmed and used two or three times a day. In addition, a leaf decoction drunk as a tea is prescribed. If there is a fever in addition to the inflammation, the decoction is made from the flowers.
The term siempreviva (always living) refers to the plant’s hardiness. Not only is it heat and drought tolerant, but it is able to withstand freezing temperatures. Because of this robustness, one group of researchers has proposed its use as green roofing in Mexico City to mitigate air pollution.
Sedum praealtum closely resembles Sedum dendroideum, which is also commonly called siempreviva in many areas. In the state of Mexico, the Mazahua people use the name medye, while in Puebla, the Popoloca prefer the term kanda chansa.
The primary visual difference between these two varieties of sedum is a red tint on the edges of the leaves on Sedum dendrioideum, which Sedum praealtum lacks. In many remedies, the two varieties are used interchangeably.
Cloudy vision and redness in the eyes are treated by squeezing the leaves so that a drop of sap enters the eye. Using Sedum dendroideum has demononstrated healing process of corneal damage caused by pterygium, commonly known as eye web.
Burns are covered with a plaster made from the sap. Sedum dendroideum has antioxidant effects and aids in burn injury healing.
For intestinal issues, 10 grams of the leaves are crushed and added to a liter of water and drunk for 15 days. This plant has shown to be a natural nontoxic therapeutic alternative for the treatment of gastric ulcers. It is also an effective treatment for gastrointestinal disorders as a tea infusion due to its gastroprotective properties.
Two split leaves dipped in manteca (lard) of sedum dendroideum is a headache remedy. The fresh sap from the leaves of the Sedum dendroideum are antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory. Leaves warmed and mashed to make a poutlice are applied to sore and inflamed muscles. Mashed leaves are placed directly on a wound to stop bleeding.
Leaf extracts also have antidiabetic potential.
Another variety of sedum, Sedum mexicanum, Mexican stonecrop, or uva de gato mexicana (Mexican cat grape) may possess therapeutic potential for liver fibrosis.
Sedum oxypetalum known as jiote or Siempreviva is a traditional remedy for periodontal disease. Studies have shown it promotes the regeneration of mineralized tissues making it useful in teeth strengthening. As a mouthwash, the juice is warmed, swished over the gums, and held in the mouth for a few minutes before spitting out. Sedum oxypetalum also possesses antifungal activity.
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Interested in natural remedies? Uncover herbal remedies from traditional Mexican sources for healing and wellness in the Exploring Traditional Herbal Remedies in Mexico Series
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