The medicinal properties of the Poinsettia flower

Read in EnglishThe poinsettia, a plant native to Mexico, is one of the most beautiful due to its deep red color, making it perfect for decorating our homes during the Christmas season. However, the flower has not always been associated with Catholic celebrations. Before colonization, this red flower was used for medicinal purposes and was a very important element in the rituals of warriors, as it adorned the altars of those who died in battle. On the other hand, for the Mexica, the poinsettia also symbolized the blood that was shed during the sacrifices made in honor of the sun. Years later, in the 17th century, colonizers adopted the use of the flower to adorn nativity scenes. Subsequently, it began to be associated with Christmas, becoming a symbol of the December festivities. In Nahuatl, it is known as cuetlaxóchitl, which means “the flower that wilts.” In our country, Mexico City, Morelos, Puebla, and Michoacán are the main producers of poinsettias, of which there are more than 30 varieties. Here we tell you everything you need to know about the medicinal uses of this Mexican flower. You can also read: Can the poinsettia flower be consumed?Medicinal properties of the poinsettiaThe Conabio indicates that the poinsettia, a very popular ornamental plant in Mexico and around the world, is associated with the treatment of skin conditions and inflammatory processes. On the other hand, according to the Digital Library of Traditional Mexican Medicine, some people use the poinsettia flower to increase breast milk production. In this case, the petals are boiled in water to prepare a tea. The Atlas of Plants of Traditional Mexican Medicine indicates that, in Puebla, Michoacán, Guanajuato, and the State of Mexico, the poinsettia flower is used in the treatment of wounds, sores, infections, sores in the mouth, warts, and moles. In the case of respiratory diseases such as coughs and tonsillitis, the flower is prepared to make infusions, which are often combined with bougainvillea and mullein. In other cases, it is used to relieve mumps, rabies, and heart problems. Although several studies still need to be conducted, the Digital Library of Traditional Mexican Medicine indicates that “the antibiotic activity of an ethanolic extract against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus megaterium, and Staphylococcus albus was detected.” You can also read: Medicinal benefits and uses of marigoldThe poinsettia, a plant with a long historyAlthough today we use the poinsettia flower to decorate our homes during Christmas, this beautiful flower has a history that goes far beyond the December festivities. In the 16th century, Bernardino de Sahagún noted that the beautiful red flower was used to increase breast milk production in his book General History of the Things of New Spain. Subsequently, Francisco Hernández reaffirmed Sahagún's claims, stating that nursing mothers consumed the flower to produce more milk. The Digital Library of Traditional Mexican Medicine also mentions that, during the 19th century, the Mexican Society of Natural History used it to treat “exanthematous diseases, such as galactagogue, galactophore, and resolutive.” However, it is important to mention that consuming this flower in large quantities can be toxic and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and delirium. It should also be kept out of reach of pets like dogs and cats. Remember that this article aims to promote the culture of our country, so the consumption of these remedies is not recommended. Consult your doctor if you suffer from any illness.