From the Nahautl words for "woman" and "medicine", ciguapate is a densely branched shrub with yellow flowers. It grows in temperate zones and reaches a height of 10 feet tall. Contrary to its name, it is beneficial to both sexes.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Mexico, Central America
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Aphrodisiac, analgesic, diuretic, and used to treat headache, difficult labor, menstrual cramps, colic, and digestion problems
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all conditions, steep a small handful of the flowers in a liter of boiling water. Drink throughout the day. For headaches, place the leaves directly on the forehead.
