Description
Amazonian Tonic
To say Maytenus krukovii is available everywhere in the Peruvian Amazon is no exaggeration.
Chuchuhuasi is the universal tonic of the Amazon.
Maytenus krukovii is prized as much for its revitalising and libido-enhancing effects as for its ability to relieve sore joints and muscles.
It is traditionally taken as a decoction or macerated in alcohol but, either way, the remedy is subtle and slow acting. It may take several weeks before the full benefits are realized. Despite its somewhat bitter, oily taste, Chuchuhuasi diffuses rapidly in the body, revitalising the essence (Jing) and supporting kidney energy.
Second chakra
Maytenus krukovii influences all the organs and systems associated with the second chakra. This includes sexual/reproductive organs, adrenals, kidneys, bladder, digestion, immune system, bones and teeth. Various studies have confirmed the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, gastro-protective and immune-stimulating properties of the bark.
Shamanic Plant Teacher
Maytenus krukovii is respected as a plant teacher in Peruvian shamanism for the strength and protection it confers. It is one of the palos or trees included in la dieta, the shamanic diet, which forms the basis of shamanic training in the Ucayali region of Peru. Chuchuhuasi is one of many additional ingredients which can be added to the ayahuasca brew.
Tropical Rainforest
Chuchuhausi is a tall, canopy tree indigenous to the tropical rainforests of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It has a number of botanical names including Maytenus krukovii, M. ebenifolia, M. laevis, and M. macrocarpa. Not to be confused with Heisteria pallida which is sometimes referred to as chuchuhuasha or chuchuwasi.
Phytochemistry
Chuchuhausi is a powerhouse of triterpenes, favonols, and sesquiterpene alkaloids. The pyridine alkaloids in the bark are likely responsible for its anti-arthritic effects. One study found its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory action to be more potent than ibruprofen (Salazar-Granara, 2012). It also contains alkaloids which inhibit protein kinase C (PKC), an enzyme implicated in arthritis. Elevated PKC is also indicated in a wide variety of disease processes including asthma, brain tumors, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. A number of chemicals have been identified with antitumour activity. Tingenone and pristimeran are effective against skin cancers according to one study. Also new sesquiterpene compounds plus mayteine and maytansine have displayed some antitumour activitity. Chuchuhuasi has also be found effective against leishmaniasis, a tropical parasitic disease causing skin lesions.
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