Let's look at a commonly found brush species, known botanically as Leucophyllum frutescens, L. texana, and L. texanum. We know it regionally as cenizo or purple sage. It is important that this shrub not be confused with the herb we commonly refer to as sage, which is altogether another plant species.
The strains of this species that we find in our area of South Texas have predominately silver or gray leaves (hence the genus name Leucophyllym) with a variable shade of purple for its bloom color. I have, however, seen plants with totally white flowers. A green-leafed strain is commonly sold at local nurseries as a landscape plant.
There is nothing that can compare to the flowering of the cenizo after a rain in the desert scrub of South Texas. In some areas with a dense population of plants, the intensity of the color is pleasurably overwhelming to the optic senses during the height of the bloom. The flowering peaks quickly in one day, followed by petal drop.
If you do not have a cenizo planted in your yard, and you want one, they are readily available at any of the garden centers around town. I suggest the gray-leaf variety over the green-leaf one for medicinal purposes. Its primary active constituents are cyanide-3-rutinoside and an unnamed alkaloid. The green type may very well have similar phytochemical components and properties.
Aside from being an attractive bush, cenizo provides the ingredients for brewing a delightful tea that is traditionally used for treating coughs, colds, chills, and fever. The tea is also employed to benefit the liver as a cleanser and protectant, particularly in cases of hepatitis or prolonged alcohol abuse. Nevertheless, this tea can be enjoyed just for the pleasure of it as well.
Ideally, the leaves are harvested during the bloom period, flowers and all. They can be used fresh or dried in a shady spot and stored for later use. You can also buy the herb at almost any grocery store or herb shop in the area.
To prepare the tea, pour a cup of boiling water over a teaspoon of the herb and allow to steep for a few minutes before drinking. A fresh sprig of yerba buena or any type of mint from your garden can be added if you like. You can leave the leaves in the cup or strain them out. Add honey or sugar and lemon to taste if desired. Considering the time of the year and Laredo's summer temperatures, you might want to try it as an iced tea.