Growing from 3 to 14 feet, this herb has a few main stems with many branches. The leaves often have three distinct points, giving it its Spanish name, tres puntas. The leaves are bitter. Its flowers are yellow. Like all bitters, jackass bitters should not be consumed by pregnant women.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, Northern South America to Brazil, Florida, Hawaii
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Antifungal, antiparasitic, insecticidal, antimalarial, abortifacient, and used to treat head lice, sores, wounds, vaginal conditions, infections, skin conditions
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For fungus, parasites, and infections, boil
1 fresh leaf per cup water for 10 minutes. Repeat up to three times per day. For malaria, drink
4 cups per day. For external conditions, boil
1 handful of jackass bitters leaves in 1 gallon water for 10 minutes. Allow to cool partially or completely, and then bathe the affected area. This liquid may be used on diseased houseplants or garden plants. It can also be used as a rinse for head lice, as a douche, or to bathe stubborn wounds or infections. Fresh, juiced leaves may also be used on skin conditions and fungal infections.
