Marrubio (Marrubium vulgare) is a plant brought to Mexico by Spanish friars after the conquest. Never one to look a gift herb in the mouth, it’s become a staple healing plant in Mexico. Other names that are also used to refer to this plant include manrubio, marrubillo, malvarrubia, malcubio, malva del sapo, marrubio de monte, and malvarrubina. In Michoacán, it is often referred to as uitsicua or uitzacua (sometimes spelled with a v instead of u) in the Tarascan language. The Popoloca people use the word kathuchjeekunia and in Mexico State, it is known as tzopiloshihuitl.
An infusion of flowers is used as an appetite stimulant and diuretic. In Veracruz, it is used for stomach issues, colds, cough, liver problems (bilis), diabetes, and to bring on menstruation. It is also used topically in after-birth cleansings, rheumatism, mange, wounds, hives, and rashes.
Marrubio is antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-biotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, wound-healing, anti-hypertensive, hypolipidemic, and sedative. It has shown promise in lowering plasma glucose levels, supporting its use in treating diabetes.
A digestive tea is prepared with one tablespoon of flowers in one liter of boiled water. Allow it to steep for 10 minutes before straining. Drink one cup, three times a day. As a wash, boil 20 grams of the leaves and flowers in one liter of water. For bilis (liver problems caused by rage), boil the stems in one cup of water and drink before breakfast or an infusion of leaves before bed. A decoction made from the stems, leaves, and flowers is prescribed for stomach issues. A tincture is made from the entire plant (root to flower) left to soak in alcohol overnight. For susto (sudden fear), fresh stems are used to “sweep” the person of the fear. Then at noon, the person’s shadow is swept in front of a lit candle while praying.
Marrubio and Laurel Infusion for Digestion
• 1 laurel silvestre leaf (Litsea glaucescens)
• 1 tablespoon of dried marrubio leaves (Marrubium vulgare)
Bring ½ liter of water to boil with the laurel leaf. Remove from heat. Add the marrubio and allow it to steep for five minutes. Strain and drink after meals.
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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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