When many people think about Mexico, pine trees are not in their concept of native plants. However, believe it or not, Mexico has the highest number of native pine species globally, between 43 to 51 species.
Many of these species are used in traditional herbalism in Mexico. In fact, the resin from ocote (Pinus montezumae), called oxitl, was given to humans by Tzapotlatena, the goddess of medicine herself. According to Bernardino de Sahagún, this resin was used in remedies for fever and cracked skin. The name ocote comes from the Nahuatl ocotl. Ocotzotl, the resin or turpentine from the pine, is known as trementina. Another indigenous remedy was cuauh ocotl, a tea made from the needles for respiratory illnesses.
Trementina de ocote is prescribed for nail fungus and as an anti-lice repellent. It is also combined with alcanfor (Cinnamomum camphora) or gobernadora (Larrea tridentata) for a rheumatism liniment. Trementina is antiseptic, diuretic, rubefacient, and anti-parasitic.
In the state of Puebla, ocote is used to alleviate cold symptoms, and in Tlaxcala, it is prescribed as a remedy for bronchitis. It is also used in wound healing. It is considered a “hot” plant and is often used for “cold” illnesses through steam baths and infusions.
Ocote is a hard pine and is used in construction. The resin is so flammable that cut branches will burn like torches. A vanillin flavoring can be obtained from the resin and pulpwood. Like other pine species, the seeds of the Pinus montezumae are edible but small.
Té de Ocote for Congestion
- 1 ocote branch with needles about 6 inches long (Pinus montezumae)
Boil the branch in 1 liter of water for five minutes. Strain and sweeten with miel (honey) if desired. Drink one cup a day to help with respiration.
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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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