Amula (or Hámula) de Monterrey is the name locals use to refer to Brickellia cavanillesii, Bricklebush. In some parts of Mexico, it is referred to as prodigiosa. However, prodigiosa is Artemisia absinthium L. in other areas. Other common names are just as problematic. Gobernadora de Puebla is easily confused with gobernadora (Larrea Tridentata). Hierba amargosa translates as “bitter herb” and can be used for several other bitter-flavored plants. Hierba del becerro (cattle herb) is a term for Stevia jorullensis as well as Brickellia cavanillesii. Hierba del perro (dog herb) could also refer to Cestrum fasciculatum. However, Atanasia amarga is classified as Coleosanthus squarrosus, which is considered a synonym of Brickellia cavanillesii, so that alternate name seems less troublesome than most.
Whatever its local name, Brickellia cavanillesii is most often prescribed for diabetes and bilis (anger issues). It is applied topically for numbness or pain in the hands and feet. As a poultice, the stems and leaves are washed in warm water, then crushed and placed on the affected area. Be warned, it has a very strong odor.
In the states of Morelos, Guanajuato, and Mexico, Amula De Monterrey leaves are infused and drunk before breakfast without a sweetener. Another remedy “para el coraje” (for rage), adds ajenjo (Artemisia ludoviciana) to the infusion, which should be drunk three times a day. A third remedy for bilis calls for crushed leaves added to the alcohol of choice, left to steep overnight, and a shot of the alcohol before breakfast. Yet another infusion consists of steeping Amula De Monterrey leaves flavored with ground canela (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and salt.
A final remedy for bilis directs the herbalist to boil a canela (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) stick in a liter of water. Once the water is boiling, add a few branches of real (smilax moranensis), Amula De Monterrey, bark, leaves and tender fruit from the limón (citrus aurantifolium), fruit and leaves of naranjo (citris aurantium), flowering toronjil morado branches (Agastache mexicana), and a few manrubio leaves (marrubium vulgare). Blend the ingredients and bring the liquid to a boil a second time. In a second pan, caramelize some sugar and then add a splash of alcohol. Add the sugar and alcohol mix to the first pot. Drink one cup before breakfast for nine consecutive days.
Unsurprisingly, studies have shown that Brickellia cavanillesii is an anxiolytic phytomedicinal agent, which supports its use to calm the emotional state implied by bilis.
The leaves are steeped in boiling water for a few minutes for stomach issues and drunk before each meal. To stimulate the appetite, tea is made with a flowering branch, yerba buena (Mentha spicata), and malva (Malva sylvestris).
An antidiabetic infusion is made by adding 10 grams of Amula de Monterrey and 6 guarumbo (Cecropia obtusifolia) leaves in a half liter of boiling water, steeped for no more than three minutes, and given three times a day before meals. Another remedy calls for an infusion of leaves and flowers taken in the morning and evening to lower blood sugar levels. Studies have shown Amula De Monterrey effectively controls blood glucose levels, is a source of α-glucosidases inhibitors, and exhibits antidiabetic activity supporting this traditional use.
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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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