I had a terrible time with the nomenclature for this plant. Every source I consulted listed at least 20 local names. However, most of them were problematic. For example, Poinciana is also Caesalpinia gilliesii, Flor de Nochebuena is Euphorbia Pulcherrima, Hoja Sen is another name for Senna alexandrina, Cabellos de Ángel is Calliandra grandiflora as well, Tabachín and Flamboya are local names for Delonix regia, and Ave del Paraíso is also Strelitzia Reginae. To top it off, Caesalpinia pulcherrima is considered a synonym for Poinciana pulcherrima. Thus, the question remained on what to call this plant.
After considerable research, I could verify that the names bigotillo, virundera del Perú, barbona, and ciringuanico or siringuanico in Purepecha did indeed refer to Caesalpinia pulcherrima and only Caesalpinia pulcherrima. Several sources also said that in Nahuatl, this plant was known as the “shrimp flower” but after searching the Nahuatl Dictionary archives, I could not verify that. In English, most gardeners seem to go with the Mexican bird of paradise or Dwarf poinciana.
Caesalpinia pulcherrima is found in most areas in Mexico and is thought to be a native plant species, but botanists aren’t quite sure about that either. Then there is the apparent conundrum that Caesalpinia is toxic, but this species is used extensively as medicine. So more verification was in order. As it turns out, the ripe (but not unripe) seeds contain tannic acid. In most cases, pets and children will experience gastrointestinal discomfort, including vomiting and diarrhea if the seeds are eaten, but it is not fatal.
In Mexico, the leaves are used for fever reduction, the flower is used for pain, and the unripe seeds are prescribed for respiratory illnesses and cough. Just four grams of the root will trigger a miscarriage in the first trimester, so this plant should never be used during pregnancy. It’s no surprise then that in Veracruz, a flower infusion is given to bring on menstruation.
Mouth ulcerations and gum disease are treated with the root. Liver disease calls for a leaf infusion. In Michoacan, an infusion of flowers, leaves, and branches is made and drunk in place of water for bronchial ailments. The root, stem, or leaves are used for colds and flu with cough in other areas as well. For stomach ailments, including dysentery and ulcers, a cup of bigotillo leaf infusion is prescribed. To treat venereal diseases, insect bites, wounds, fever, and skin infections, a wash is made from the leaves. An anti-fungal wash is made by simmering the roots.
The Kiliwa in Northern Baja California consider the bigotillo highly toxic. A concoction that contains bigotillo meant to harm others can be obtained from brujos (witches) or hechiceros (sorcerers).
Caesalpinia pulcherrima flowers, leaves, and green fruit contain anti-inflammatory properties. Older adults in parts of Colombia use the flowers and leaves tincture to relieve rheumatoid arthritis pain.
Bigotillo demonstrates α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and has been found to delay the process of diabetic retinopathy. It is anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant. It exhibits gastroprotective effects and antiulcer activity, supporting its use as a digestive treatment. It has shown itself to be useful in treating tuberculous and is an immunostimulant compound.
Infusión de Bigotillo for Respiratory Illness and Cough
- 2-3 bigotillo flowers (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
- 2-3 epazote leaves (Dysphania ambrosioides)
- 5-10 gordolobo flowers and leaves (Verbascum thapsiforme)
- 5 palo mulato flowers (Bursera simaruba)
- 5 bugambilia morada bracts (Bougainvillea glabra)
Add the ingredients to 1 liter of boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and serve with miel (honey).
NOTE: Not to be used during pregnancy.
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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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