Chilcuague – The Golden Root of the Aztecs
What lies within one of the most valuable plant extracts of South America?
What is Chilcuague?
Chilcuague is a high-quality extract from the root of a plant, locally known as the Aztec Golden Root. The word chilcuague is derived from the Aztec Nahuatl language. The plant was known indigenously as chilcoatl, where "chil" means something spicy, and the "coatl" refers to the shape of the root, resembling a snake. So literally the full name could be translated as "spicy snake."
A treasure from the heart of Mexico
Golden Root (Heliopsis longipes) is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is only found in one region of the world, in north-central Mexico. Due to its strong properties, attempts have been made to cultivate it elsewhere (e.g. in Colombia or Peru), unfortunately without much success. This is because this sensitive herb requires a semi-arid climate with good drainage and cool winds that bring fog and morning dew. The maturation process of Golden Root takes about 3 years. This allows its active ingredients to reach the right concentration.
Chilcuague root extract: for oral cavity and beyond
As far back as the Aztec times, the plant's remarkable properties were used in natural medicine. Indigenous people chewed the root, which caused numbing of the tongue, teeth and throat. It was often used to relieve pain during teething in children. Golden Root is also used as a spice in many local dishes and alcoholic beverages, not only for its spicy taste, but also for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
According to experts in folk medicine, consumption of Golden Root stimulates the glands that produce sweat, urine and saliva, which enables increased detoxification of the body. The production of saliva here has many beneficial effects, such as stimulating the production of digestive enzymes amylase and lipase, which help neutralize the pH in the mouth and stomach, helping to reduce reflux and abdominal pain, as well as counteracting gastritis. Thanks to its strong antiviral, antifungal or antiseptic properties, the root strengthens immunity and acts as an anesthetic.*
Discover our Chilcuague extracts
The range of Golden Root products
Scientifically proven properties of Chilcuague
Modern medical knowledge also recognizes the enormous potential of Golden Root. Many research programs are exploring its medicinal properties, confirming (and sometimes expanding) the experiences of indigenous peoples using it. Research to date has shown that the phytonutrients in Heliopsis longipes root have effects:
These are just some of the benefits of using chilcuague. Reports from folk medicine also mention other properties, such as affecting the mind, reducing stress and even fighting certain ailments. Academic knowledge is still getting acquainted with this remarkable plant, and it is likely that we will have to wait a few more years to create a complete and reliable documentation on chilcuague.
Golden Root application - How to use chilcuague?
In traditional folk medicine, alcohol-based chilcuague extracts are used both internally and externally*. In our online store you can find chilcuague root extract in spray form. This is a popular form of application, which is also used in a traditional context. Below you will find examples of folk uses of Golden Root, as recommended by indigenous experts:
- Mouth rinsing, for sore throat or tonsillitis;*
- Relieving sinus inflammation and throat infections caused by allergies, colds or flu;*
- Clearing the airways by stimulating the secretion of mucus;*
- Relieving tooth, gum pain and inflammation in the mouth, reducing tartar, improving freshness of breath (best used in the morning and evening);*
- Relieving symptoms of thrush and some varieties of herpes due to antiviral properties;*
- Alleviating the nuisance of so-called athlete's foot (also effective against skin and nail fungus);*
- Getting rid of some intestinal parasites;*
- Alleviating infections caused by acne;*
- Disinfecting burns and skin wounds, including those from insect bites;*
- Toning and soothing ulcers in diabetics;*
- General strengthening of the immune system, giving extra protection against parasites, bacteria, viruses and fungi.*
Application to the throat may cause profuse salivation, burning and choking sensations, which pass after a few minutes. When using the product in inhaled form, it is important to remain calm and breathe steadily. Within two minutes, the annoying sensation disappears.*
Not only health: The insecticidal effect of Heliopsis longipes
Although the use of chilcuague is mainly discussed in terms of health benefits, it is also used for industrial purposes. Among other things, an alkaloid called affine has been isolated from it, which is attributed with insecticidal properties. Tests on wild plants conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture have shown that extracts from Heliopsis longipes exhibit a toxic and paralyzing effect on insects - similar to the goldenrod herb. The presence of affine and its biocidal properties also seem to justify the traditional use of chilcuague root by Mexican people as a daily intestinal dewormer 15,16.
Other formulas based on chilcuague root
Many formulas derived from indigenous South American folk medicine also use other plant ingredients. The active compounds they contain complement each other, creating a more targeted effect. In addition to pure chilcuague extract, you can also find in our store:
Chilortom: Chilcuague root extract enriched with oregano and thyme extracts
Each of these three plants is renowned for its antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties. The combined ingredients of chilcuague, oregano and thyme strengthen the body's immunity, especially in colds and flu. It helps the digestive system function properly. Both oregano and thyme are also recommended for mouth and throat rinses, as well as for use as a poultice - as a remedy for certain skin diseases.*
Chilclove: Chilcuague root extract enriched with clove extract
*The products described hereby are not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease or ailment. The information provided is for historical, scientific or educational purposes only and should never be construed as a recommendation for specific use. We do not label or sell preparations as consumer products. Responsibility and risk for the use of the products described contrary to this warning rests with the customer.
