Huacatay
Tagetes minuta
Latin Name: Tagetes minuta
Common Name: Wakataya, Chinchilla, Chiquilla, Chilca, Zuico, Suico, Anisillo, or Black Mint, Aztec Marigold
Family: Asteraceae
Contraindications: In some people, the leaves of this plant may cause photodermatitis. Use gloves or wash hands immediately after handling. Do not consume if pregnant
Native To: Abya Yala (south america), specifically Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia
Botanical Description: The plant can reach a meter in height and has lanceolate, serrated leaves; it is also characterised by a very strong smell, and has yellow flowers.
Habitat: Needs a warm climate to grow, sand or clay soils rich in organic material and constant sun exposure. It grows spontaneously in various areas of Peru, both on the coast and in the jungle; it is easiest to find huacatay areas near the Andes.
Parts Used: Leaves
Key Constituents: flavonoids, thiophenes, terpenes, sterols, and phenolics
Herbal Actions: Anti-fungal, Anthelminthic, Carminiative, Diaphoretic, Antispasmodic, Bactericidal, Emmenagogue, Fungicide,
Taste: Aromatic, Sweet
Ways To Use:
Insecticide/Herbicide — Roots are allelopathic which means they exude chemicals that repel invasive plants like bindweed, couch grass, and ground elder. (source)
Digestive Tract Issues — Relives stomach aches caused by gas, colic, intestinal worms, dysentary.
Emmenagague — Brings on menstruation
Respiratory Support/Cold Flu — Drink as a tea to help reduce symptoms of cold and respiratory inflammation.
Herbal Preperations
Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce), serve with adobo chicken, potatoes and summer squash, lomo saltado, or whatever else
Rocro or Locro de Zapallo aka Andean Pumpkin, Potato and Black Mint Stew
References:
written by khadija khansia
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Use with caution and consult with a doctor or herbalist before consuming if you are pregnant or on other medications. Please do your own research before consuming to know if this medicine is right for your body.
