Marcela flower (Achyrocline satureioides) is a widely recognized herb, particularly throughout South America. This plant is often distinguished by its small, yellowish flowers, which appear in clusters. It holds a long-standing reputation for various applications, deeply rooted in traditional practices across its native regions. Its natural origins and widespread historical use underscore its significance in local cultures.
Understanding Marcela Flower
Marcela flower, scientifically known as Achyrocline satureioides, belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly referred to by several names, including macela and camomila-nacional in different regions. This herbaceous plant typically grows as a medium-sized annual, reaching heights of up to 1.5 meters.
The plant features soft, green stems and narrow, simple green leaves that often have serrated edges. Its most distinctive characteristic is its small, daisy-like yellow flowers, which typically bloom in racemes around Easter time. Marcela is indigenous to tropical and subtropical South America, thriving in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. It frequently appears in disturbed soils and can be found on roadsides and open lands.
Health Benefits and Traditional Uses
Marcela flower has a long history of use in folk medicine, particularly in South America, where it is highly valued for its therapeutic properties. Its traditional applications are extensive, primarily revolving around its use as a medicinal herb and for preparing various infusions.
One of the most prominent traditional uses of marcela is as a digestive aid. It has been widely employed to alleviate gastrointestinal issues, including nervous colic, indigestion, heartburn, and stomach pains. Its antispasmodic properties are particularly noted for providing relief from intestinal cramps and controlling sudden muscle contractions.
Beyond digestive health, marcela flower exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it a traditional remedy for various inflammatory disorders. The plant’s compounds contribute to its analgesic effects, which have been traditionally applied to relieve pain, including that associated with rheumatism, neuralgia, and sore muscles. It also possesses antioxidant effects. These antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Marcela is also traditionally used for its calming and sedative properties, often employed to promote relaxation and sleep. People have historically filled pillows with marcela flowers for sleep-enhancing aromatherapy. Additionally, it has been used to address menstrual irregularities and as a menstrual promoter. Its traditional uses extend to liver problems, diarrhea, dysentery, and even as an immunostimulant.
Cultivating Marcela Flower
Growing marcela flower requires attention to specific environmental conditions to ensure healthy development. This plant thrives in sunny environments, preferring open areas with ample direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Marcela prefers well-drained soil, though it can tolerate a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, or silty compositions. While it adapts to low fertility soils, enriching the soil with organic matter can enhance its growth. The ideal soil pH for marcela typically ranges from slightly acidic to neutral. Ensuring good drainage is important, as consistently soggy conditions can lead to root issues.
Propagation of marcela can be achieved through seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be sown directly under suitable conditions. For cuttings, a sand-based growing medium has shown better rooting results compared to soil or soil-humus mixtures. Satisfactory rooting for transplanting can be achieved, particularly with spring cuttings.
General care involves consistent watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Harvesting the flowers typically occurs when they are in bloom, usually between late spring and early summer, or around Easter, depending on the region. These flowers are the primary part used for their therapeutic properties.
Preparing and Consuming Marcela
Marcela flower is most commonly prepared and consumed as a tea or infusion. To make marcela tea, dried herb is infused in 1 liter of boiling water. The boiling water is poured over the dried flowers, and the mixture is allowed to steep for about 10 minutes.
After steeping, the tea can be strained to remove the plant material. This infusion is traditionally consumed warm. It is often taken after meals. For external applications, such as for washing wounds or in compresses, a stronger infusion can be used.
Other traditional uses include incorporating the flowers into medicinal wines and bitters. The dried flowers were historically used as filling for pillows and mattresses for their calming scent. While tea is the primary method of consumption, these various preparations highlight the versatility of marcela in traditional practices.
Important Considerations
While marcela flower has a long history of traditional use, it is important to be aware of potential considerations. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should exercise caution. Marcela has also been documented to have hypoglycemic effects, meaning it may lower blood sugar levels.
People with hypoglycemia or diabetes should use marcela only under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Additionally, marcela has been noted to potentiate the effects of certain medications, including insulin, diabetic medications, and barbiturates. Therefore, individuals taking prescription sedatives, pain-killers, or other medications should use marcela with caution and consult their doctor.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using marcela flower, as studies have shown potential impacts on pregnancy outcomes and neonatal survival in animal models. The information provided about marcela flower is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new herbal remedy into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.