Did you know that jaborandi, popular name for Pilocarpus trees , can bring some benefits to hair?
That’s right, the leaves of this species are rich in several phytochemical compounds, such as coumarins and the alkaloid pilocarpine, which act directly in the prevention of shedding and oiliness and in the treatment of dandruff .
Furthermore, jaborandi tea can be used internally as it is considered a great digestive agent and also relieves the symptoms of xerostomia (dry mouth), a problem that is very common in chemotherapy patients.
We separate the main uses of the species for hair health, other therapeutic applications and even the modes of use. Check it out!
Table of Contents
Why apply jaborandi to your hair?
Fights the fall and stimulates growth
The leaves of jaborandi have high concentrations of the alkaloid (a type of substance that is the basis for many others) pilocarpine and it is precisely this composition that makes the plant the perfect ally to fight hair loss and also stimulate growth.
In fact, several of the species’ phytochemicals are used in shampoos and hair masks for this purpose.
Its compounds act directly on the blood circulation, promoting an improvement in it.
When applied directly to the scalp, it can increase the amount of blood and, consequently, oxygen and nutrients that are sent to the site.
The result is greater protection for the follicles, which not only manage to stay healthy for longer, but are also encouraged to produce new hairs .
Thus, the tea or tonic from this plant can be a treatment option for both baldness and hair loss caused by nutritional deficiency or hormonal changes.
Treat dandruff
Jaborandi derivatives on the scalp help to eliminate dandruff , a white flaking that causes itching.
This seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory problem that can be caused by excess oil or fungal action.
Trees of this species have compounds that have antifungal and anti-inflammatory potential, two mechanisms that help fight dandruff by acting directly at the root of the problem.
The plant also has an astringent property , that is, it favors the reduction of excess sebum.
Decreases scalp oiliness
The use of jaborandi tea can also help those who suffer from excessively oily hair.
Applying the infusion to the roots of the hair or using its extract in the shampoo promotes a control of the oil produced naturally by the body, precisely because of the astringent effect.
Other uses of jaborandi
Treating psoriasis and other skin problems
The infusion prepared with the leaves of the herb is also indicated as a natural treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo .
In both cases, the effectiveness of use is related to the presence of coumarins, as they make the skin more sensitive to light, stimulating the production of pigments in the places where they were lost.
Stimulate salivation and digestion
Tea, or tincture, also has internal uses, the main one being in combating problems related to the lack of salivation, such as xerostomia (dry mouth) and indigestion .
Pilocarpine stimulates part of the nervous system that acts to control the release of bodily fluids . Thanks to this, jaborandi makes the body produce more saliva and release more stomach acid, two mechanisms that act directly on the digestive process.
Curiosity ! The name jaborandi comes from this property. Indigenous peoples used its extracts to increase salivation and perspiration and called it by the name ya-mbor-endi , which can be translated as “a plant that makes you drool” in Tupi-Guarani.
Treat or glaucoma
Pilocarpine extracted from jaborandi is still an important substance in the production of eye drops to control glaucoma, as it improves circulation, reducing eye pressure .
How to use?
The herb can be used in the form of a tonic, extract, oil or even in the preparation of an infusion .
For external use, on skin and hair, just apply 5 ml of the derivatives diluted in water on the desired location or mix in your shampoo for daily use.
The tea should be made using 1 teaspoon of the herb and 1 cup of boiling water. Leave to rest for 5 minutes to extract the properties, strain and drink while still hot or wait for it to cool and apply to the scalp, massaging well with your fingertips.
Attention: this infusion and tincture should not be consumed more than twice a day and never for a period longer than 30 consecutive days.
What care is needed
Jaborandi is contraindicated for pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding, even if it is used externally, as it is absorbed through the skin and can cause problems for the development of babies.
The infusion should also be avoided by people who suffer from cardiovascular problems or have some sensitivity to any of the phytochemicals.
Among the adverse effects caused by excess of it are: vomiting, diarrhea and irritation of the skin and eyes. In more severe cases it can cause heart failure.
To avoid health risks, treatment must be indicated and accompanied by a medical specialist.
Where to find jaborandi?
Jaborandi is very easy to find, the dried leaves are sold in natural and herbal food stores . They can also be found in open markets in some regions of the country where the cultivation of the species is more frequent.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.