Guaco is great for the nervous system and also for female organs. It's an antidote to bites of some insects. Brazilian Indians have an ancient tradition of using guaco for snake bites. Other Amazonian rainforest Indian tribes have used a leaf infusion for fevers, stomach discomfort, and for rheumatism.


It's also used topically for skin eruptions and itchy skin. In 1870, a Brazilian herbal drug called "Opodeldo de Guaco" was made from the leaf and stem of guaco to treat bronchitis, coughs and rheumatism.

Locals prepare it themselves by boiling guaco leaves into a cough syrup. It's an effective natural bronchodilator, expectorant and cough suppressant employed for all types of upper respiratory problems including bronchitis, pleurisy, colds and flu, coughs, and asthma.

It's also good for sore throats, laryngitis, and fever. Guaco is also popular as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and pain-reliever for rheumatism, arthritis, intestinal inflammation and ulcers. A decoction of the leaves is also employed externally for neuralgia, rheumatic pain, eczema, pruritus, and wounds.