Chaya (Cnidoscolus chayamansa) is also called chaya col, chaya mansa, chaay, chin chin chayy, ts’iim, ts’iim, and tree spinach. Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, also known as chaya, is another edible variety less commonly consumed. The two are often used interchangeably in traditional remedies.
Chaya is a vitamin C-rich food source and is used traditionally to combat the common cold, parasites, bacterial infections, diabetes, rheumatism, insomnia, skin disorders, gout, alcoholism, respiratory, kidney, and gastrointestinal diseases, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Leaf sap is sometimes prescribed for eye infections, while the sap from the stem is applied to insect bites, acne, skin eruptions, and scorpion stings. In Chiapas, boiled, shredded leaves are applied to fungal infections. As a part of a daily nutritional regime, the recommended dose is two to six leaves boiled and blended into juice or soup.
For a mild laxative, boil 10 grams of leaves and stems in a liter of water and blend. Drink one cup before every meal for fifteen days.
A decoction of dried or fresh leaves and stems is also drunk to augment milk production and applied topically for vaginal infections and as an after-birth wash. Be sure to boil the tea for at least five minutes since the leaves contain hydrocyanic glycosides. Boiling ensures that the leaves are safe to ingest.
Cnidoscolus chayamansa leaf infusions are antibacterial, antioxidant, antimycobacterial, hypoglycemic, antiprotozoal, hypocholesterolemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and minimally antimicrobial.
Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf extract has a hypotensive effect. It has been shown to be gastro and renal protective. Other studies have shown that it prevents hepatic injury, reduces blood glucose and plasma cholesterol levels, and improves muscle glucose uptake. There has been some preliminary evidence that it has antithrombotic and anti-tumor properties. It is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic.
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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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