Matarique is a plant recognized for its traditional uses, particularly in Mexican traditional medicine. This article covers its botanical characteristics, traditional uses, cultivation, and safety.
Understanding Matarique
Matarique primarily refers to the plant Psacalium decompositum, though other species like Psacalium peltatum are also known by this common name. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. The plant is a perennial herb characterized by its yellowish root and a semi-woody stem that can grow up to 1 meter in length.
Its radical leaves, growing from the stem’s base, are up to 40 centimeters long and divided into sharp, grayish-green segments. The plant produces white, five-petaled flowers. Matarique grows wild in semi-arid regions, commonly found in northern Mexico, particularly in Sonora and Chihuahua, as well as parts of Arizona and New Mexico in the United States. It thrives in pine-oak forests and rocky, humid soils, often found on mountain slopes.
Traditional and Medicinal Applications
The use of Matarique has a long history in Mexican traditional medicine, where it is primarily known for addressing diabetes and various gastrointestinal issues. The root is the part of the plant most often used, frequently boiled to make a tea. This traditional remedy has also been employed for conditions such as rheumatism, neuralgia, and as a laxative.
Matarique extracts and oils have also been applied topically as an anesthetic for local pain, especially for neuralgias and rheumatic discomfort. It has also served as an ungüent for scars and as a skin antiseptic, even being used as an insect repellent. Some traditional uses extend to treating toothaches, headaches, chest pain, and liver pain, as well as soothing migraine discomfort.
Modern research has begun to investigate some of these traditional claims. Studies have identified compounds like cacalol and fructan-type oligosaccharides in Psacalium decompositum roots, which have shown hypoglycemic effects in experimental animal models. Rigorous clinical studies in humans are still needed to fully validate these traditional applications.
Cultivating Matarique
Growing Matarique typically requires conditions that mimic its native semi-arid environment. The plant prefers full sun exposure, mimicking its natural, open habitats. Well-draining, rocky soil is ideal, as Matarique is adapted to less fertile and more porous substrates. It is a drought-tolerant plant.
Propagation can be achieved through seeds or cuttings. Given its natural habitat, it likely benefits from minimal intervention and can be a resilient addition to xeriscaping or rock gardens in suitable climates. Providing adequate drainage and ample sunlight are the most significant factors for successful cultivation.
Important Safety Considerations
Despite its traditional uses, Matarique contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are substances known to be liver toxic and potentially carcinogenic. The plant’s potential toxicity, especially with prolonged ingestion, has not been thoroughly studied. It is advised not to consume teas or preparations from Matarique for extended periods, typically more than two weeks.
Certain individuals should avoid Matarique altogether. This includes pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, small children, and those with pre-existing liver or kidney diseases. Additionally, if you are taking medications to lower blood sugar, such as insulin, avoid Matarique, as potential interactions are currently unknown and could lead to adverse effects. Consulting a healthcare professional before using Matarique for any medicinal purpose is always recommended.