I would like to turn our attention to a most versatile herb that most of us have probably never heard of. It is known as Xochihuepal in Nahuatl, an Aztec dialect. A few other common names it goes by include: árnica de campo, árnica del pais, cuateteco, falsa árnica, and simply árnica, among several others. I would like to point out that it should never be confused with the herb commonly known as arnica (Arnica montana). A. montana should never be taken internally, but always used externally to treat muscle aches and pains, bruises, sprains, etc.
The problem with common names is never-ending and causes untold confusion. In some cases it can be downright hazardous. Xochihuepal is known botanically as Heterotheca inulodies Cass. Like A. montana, it is also a member of the Compositae or Sunflower family.
I like to refer to Xochihuepal as a "first-aid" herb because it has so many uses. It only makes sense to keep some on hand for when the need arises. This yerba is a vulnerary, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibiotic, diuretic, and stomachic. For respiratory conditions including bronchitis, cough, pneumonia, and pain and soreness of the lungs, it is taken as a tea in combination with cuachalalate (Amphypteryngium adstringens) for nine days. Other conditions that it is used to treat include urinary tract and kidney problems, varicose veins and hemorrhoids, and as an eye wash for irritated eyes. It is also used for ulcer pain, stomach ache, muscular ache, tooth ache, kidney pain, burning of the stomach, gastritis, and lack of appetite. Still other uses include as a liver and gall bladder decongestant, to fight cancer, for female infertility, as a cardiac tonic, and to strenghen the nervous system. Externally, the herb is applied topically in tea form to bruises, contusions, cuts and abrasions, hives, boils, and rashes, including diaper rash. Believe it or not, there are still other traditional uses for this herb!
To prepare a tea, pour a cup of boiling water over 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the herb, cover and allow to steep for about five to 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten with sugar or honey if desired. Drink one or two cups per day as needed. To apply externally, use 1/2 to two teaspoons per cup of water and simmer covered for about eight minutes. Apply with a cotton ball to the skin as needed. Refrigerate the unused tea for future use.
Xochihuepal is not readily available around here. If you look for it at an herbario in Nuevo Laredo, maybe you will find it. Currently, I am trying to grow it during the cooler winter months, since it did not endure the summer we just had here in Laredo.