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HERBOLARIO
HERBOLARIO
CATÁLOGO DE PLANTAS
DEL JARDÍN BOTÁNICO
CATALOG OF PLANTS
OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN
NOPAL / INDIAN FIG OPUNTIA
Opunta ficus-indica
Arbusto de la familia de las cactacae. Florece una vez al año y sus flores pueden
ser verdes o rojas. Da frutos abundantes llamados tunas de pulpa rica en agua y
abundante en semillas. Se cree que es originaria de Mesoamérica. Crece desde
Canadá hasta el extremo sur del continente americano, pero se le cultiva en el
mundo entero.
USOS: Las paletas jóvenes se consumen como verdura en diferentes guisos;
en México preferentemente asados. En Argentina se hace una especie de
mermelada dulce con ellas. Las tunas son ricas en vitaminas y minerales
esenciales. En la medicina tradicional, se usa al nopal como diurético y para
ayudar a la eliminación de heces, por su alta cantidad de fibra. También es
aprovechado en la industria para la fabricación de ladrillos.
Shrub of the cactacae family. It blooms once a year and its flowers can be green
or red. It gives abundant fruits called tunas of pulp rich in water and abundant in
seeds. It is believed to be native to Mesoamerica. It grows from Canada to the
southern tip of the American continent, but it is grown throughout the world.
USES: The young pallets are consumed as vegetables in different stews; in
Mexico preferably roasted. In Argentina a kind of sweet jam is made with them.
Tunas are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. In traditional medicine, nopal
is used as a diuretic and to help the elimination of feces, due to its high amount of
fiber. It is also used in the industry for the manufacture of bricks.
TERESITA, NINFA O DONCELLA / ROSE PERIWINKLE
Catharanthus roseus
Arbusto siempre verde que llega alcanzar el metro de altura. Produce flores de
cinco pétalos, generalmente de color rosado claro y raramente blancas. Es nativa
de Madagascar y sus hábitats naturales están amenazados por la quema.
Actualmente se encuentra naturalizada y ampliamente cultivada en zonas
tropicales y subtropicales, donde es apreciada por su alta resistencia a las
condiciones secas.
USOS: Se usa como ornamento en jardines, llegándose a cultivar tonalidades
diferentes a las originales en sus flores: anaranjado, malva, escarlata. Se usa en
experimentos botánicos para estudiar las patologías de otras plantas. De ella se
extraen dos sustancias usadas contra la leucemia. Tradicionalmente se le ha
usado contra la diabetes o la hipertensión, pero no se aconseja su uso para ello
debido a su toxicidad. Puede llegar a ser alucinógena.
Evergreen shrub that reaches the meter in height. It produces flowers with five
petals, usually light pink and rarely white. It is native to Madagascar and its
natural habitats are threatened by burning. Currently it is naturalized and widely
cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas, where it is appreciated for its high
resistance to dry conditions.
Se le encuentra en casi toda América del Centro y del Sur, además de ser
altamente cultivada en Asia, particularmente en Tailandia. Tiene un sabor y
aroma similares al del limón. Puede aprovecharse seco, fresco, pulverizado o en
aceite.
USOS: Es extensamente usado en la preparación de tes, sopas y guisados de
mariscos y pescados. Se le conocen propiedades antiespasmódicas. Ya en el siglo
XVI se le usaba para tratar la tos. La Sociedad Farmacéutica de México reitera su
uso como antiespasmódico y favorecedor de la digestión, por lo que puede ser
útil en cólicos menstruales, colitis e inflación gástrica. También se le usa en la
elaboración de perfumes, jabones, repelentes de mosquitos y velas aromáticas.
Tiene propiedades antisépticas, y varios estudios indican que tiene efectos
antibióticos y antimicóticos.
It is found in almost all of Central and South America, besides being highly
cultivated in Asia, particularly in Thailand. It has a flavor and aroma similar to
lemon. It can be used dry, fresh, pulverized or in form of oil.
USES: It is widely used in the preparation of teas, soups and stews of seafood
and fish. Its antispasmodic properties are known. Already in the sixteenth century
it was used to treat cough. The Pharmaceutical Society of Mexico reiterates its
use as an antispasmodic and favoring digestion, so it can be useful in menstrual
cramps, colitis and gastric inflation. It is also used in the production of perfumes,
soaps, mosquito repellents and aromatic candles. It has antiseptic properties, and
several studies indicate that it has antibiotic and antifungal effects.
Es originaria de orillas del Amazonas, donde se consumía desde hace 5,500 años. Se
teoriza que fue llevada en tiempos prehistóricos a Mesoamérica donde se cultivaba y era
consideraba una planta divina. Requiere de humedad y calor y siempre crece a la
sombra de otros árboles. Da flores todo el año. En México se cultiva en regiones
calientes y muy húmedas de Tabasco y Chiapas. África produce ahora el 60% de su
producción mundial. Fueron probablemente los olmecas quienes descubrieron el
proceso para elaborar chocolate a partir de sus semillas.
USOS: Dos terceras partes de la producción de cacao en el mundo se usan para la
fabricación de chocolate. El aceite de cacao se usa en la fabricación de medicamentos y
productos de belleza como mascarillas. La cascara del fruto puede ser usada para
alimentar animales. El chocolate tiene efectos estimulantes y produce un aumento de
serotonina y dopamina, neurotransmisores. Tradicionalmente el cocimiento de sus
hojas se usa para tratar asma, diarrea, tos, parasitismo, entre otras enfermedades.
It is native to the shores of the Amazon, where it was consumed for 5,500 years. It is
theorized that it was taken in prehistoric times to Mesoamerica, where it was cultivated
and was considered a divine plant. It requires humidity and heat and always grows in
the shade of other trees. It gives flowers all the year. In Mexico it is grown in hot and
very humid regions of Tabasco and Chiapas. Africa now produces 60% of its world
production. It was probably the Olmecs who discovered the process to make chocolate
from their seeds.
USES: Two thirds of the cocoa production in the world is used to make chocolate.
Cocoa oil is used in the manufacture of medicines and beauty products as masks. The
peel of the fruit can be used to feed animals. Chocolate has stimulant effects and
produces an increase in serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters. Traditionally the
cooking of its leaves is used to treat asthma, diarrhea, cough, parasitism, among other
diseases.
SÁBILA / ALOE VERA
Aloe Vera
USES: Since ancient times it has been used for its medicinal properties. The
chemical components of the gel that is extracted from its leaves have anti-
inflammatory properties, improve stomach ulcers, regulate the functioning of the
intestinal mucosa, relieve constipation, neutralize the effect of microbial toxins
and reduce acidity. It is used as a natural laxative. It is thought that it acts
favorably on injuries. It also has decorative uses in the houses.
MORINGA O JACINTO / DRUMSTICK TREE
Moringa Oleifera
It is a tree native to the north of India, growing on almost any type of soil and resisting
very dry conditions, so it is very easy to grow. It is also called "Tree of life", for its
great nutritional properties.
USES: Its leaves and flowers have a pleasant flavor and can be eaten raw or stewed,
being rich in carbohydrates. Its seeds can be eaten cooked or toasted. Moringa has four
times more calcium than cow's milk, four times more iron than spinach, three times
more potassium than bananas and contains 25% fiber. From its seeds an oil is extracted
an oil that is used in salads or lamps. In agriculture, its leaves are useful as fertilizer and
fungicide; in livestock, to feed various types of livestock. With its wood you can make
firewood or high-quality paper. Recently its properties, that could prevent or cure
cancer, have been studied.
Es cultivada en gran parte del mundo, en zonas tropicales, por su raíz tuberculosa
comestible. Es originaria de América Central y del Sur. En Perú se cultiva desde hace
unos 8,000 años. Llegó a Europa por medio de Cristóbal Colon. Es un alimento
reconocido como eficaz en la lucha contra la desnutrición, por sus características
nutritivas y su fácil cultivo.
USOS: Sus tubérculos se cocinan principalmente en dulces y postres, los cuales son
ricos el almidones, fibra y potasio. Su valor energético en superior al de la papa. Su
fibra mejorar el tránsito intestinal, previene el cáncer de colon y produce sensación de
saciedad. En algunos países se valora su hoja para alimentar ganado. En Puerto Rico ha
sido uno de los alimentos básicos por décadas, donde se come de desayuno con leche o
café o preparado con carne o jamón. También se puede usar en la elaboración de
helados. En México se consume como confitura. Sus raíces sirven en la fabricación de
alimentos fermentados. En la medicina tradicional de Japón, se usa contra la diabetes.
Se usa también en suplementos nutricionales como fuente de antioxidantes.
*
It is cultivated in much of the world, in tropical areas, for its edible tuberculous root. It
is native to Central and South America. In Peru it has been cultivated for about 8,000
years. It arrived in Europe through Christopher Columbus. It is a recognized food as
effective in the fight against malnutrition, for its nutritional characteristics and its easy
cultivation.
USES: Its tubers are cooked mainly in sweets and desserts, which are rich in starch,
fiber and potassium. Its energy value exceeds that of the potato. Its fiber improve
intestinal transit, prevents colon cancer and produces a feeling of fullness. In some
countries its leaf is valued to feed cattle. In Puerto Rico it has been one of the basic
foods for decades, where its eaten for breakfast with milk or coffee or prepared with
meat or ham. It can also be used in the production of ice cream. In Mexico it is
consumed as jam. Its roots serve in the manufacture of fermented foods. In traditional
medicine of Japan, it is used against diabetes. It is also used in nutritional supplements
as a source of antioxidants.
JENGIBRE / GINGER
Zingiber officinale
Es originario de la India y el sur de Asia. Fue una de las primeras especias que llegaron
de Oriente a Europa y fue usado ya por los griegos y romanos. India y China son
actualmente los principales productores de esta planta. Es apreciado por sus tallos
subterráneos de olor y sabor picantes. La planta llega a crecer entre los noventa
centímetros y los dos metros de altura. Crece en zonas húmedas, cerca de cauces de
agua.
USO: Se usa culinariamente en todo el mundo por influencia de la comida asiática,
donde se usa comúnmente como especia. En Occidente se le usa en platillos dulces
como las tradicionales galletas llamadas “hombres de jengibre”. Existe también una
popular bebida gaseosa llamada ginger ale hecha a con jengibre. Investigaciones han
demostrado que las raíces de jengibre son efectivas para tratar las náuseas de mujeres
embarazadas. Cocimientos de sus raíces se usa para tratar enfermedades
gastrointestinales y respiratorias. Se le atribuyen propiedades afrodisiacas, analgésicas
y antihistamínicas.
It is originally from India and South Asia. It was one of the first spices that came from
the East to Europe and was already used by the Greeks and Romans. India and China
are currently the main producers of this plant. It is appreciated for its subterranean stems
of spicy smell and taste. The plant grows between ninety centimeters and two meters
high. It grows in humid areas, near water channels.
USE: It is used in the preparation of food in the whole world by influence of the
cultures of Asian, where it is commonly used as a spice. In the West it is used in sweet
dishes like the traditional cookies called "men of ginger." There is also a popular
gaseous drink called ginger ale made with it. Research has shown that ginger roots are
effective in treating nausea in pregnant women. Root decoctions are used to treat
gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. It is attributed aphrodisiac, analgesic and
antihistamine properties.
HIERBABUENA / SPEARMINT
Mentha spicata
Es una planta muy aromática que contiene mentol. Su uso medicinal es muy viejo. Ya
Carlomagno la hizo cultivar en sus campos. Originaria de Europa y Asia, ha sido
naturalizada en los otros continentes. Crece entre medio y un metro de alto,
prácticamente en todos los climas. En jardines, es preferible que tenga sombra parcial,
aunque puede florecer bajo el sol lleno.
USOS: Es usada en medicina tradicional por sus propiedades antinflamatorias,
antiespasmódicas, antiflatulento (para combatir gases) y antiséptico. Untado sobre el
cuerpo, su aceite es relajante. El aceite de hierbabuena, combinado con aceite de oliva
es un buen lubricante y ungüento usado para el dolor de calambres. Es una de las
hierbas para té más populares. Se le usa para dar sabor a caramelos, helados, chicles y
otros. Se le usa como ingrediente en uno de los cocteles más populares: el mojito
cubano. Ocasionalmente se agrega a sopas Su aceite es usado como fumigante contra
polillas y como aromatizante de champús.
*
It is a very aromatic plant that contains menthol. Its medicinal use is very old.
Charlemagne had her cultivated in his fields. Originally from Europe and Asia, it has
been naturalized in the other continents. It grows between half and one meter high,
practically in all climates. In gardens, it is preferable to have partial shade, although it
can bloom under full sun.
USES: It is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic,
antiflatulent (to fight gas) and antiseptic properties. Smeared on the body, its oil is
relaxing. Peppermint oil, combined with olive oil is a good lubricant and ointment used
for cramping pain. It is one of the most popular tea herbs. It is used to flavor candies,
ice cream, chewing gum and others. It is used as an ingredient in one of the most
popular cocktails: the Cuban mojito. Occasionally it is added to soups. Its oil is used as
a fumigant against moths and as a shampoo flavoring.
También es conocido como tomillo español o menta mexicana. Puede alcanzar el metro
de altura. Es nativo de Sudamérica y el este de África. Ha sido naturalizado en las
zonas tropicales de todo el mundo. Ha sido usado como planta de ornato, medicina
tradicional y condimento. Crece en bosques costeros, laderas rocosas y pisos arenosos a
baja altura sobre el nivel del mar.
USOS. Ha sido usado tradicionalmente como remedio casero, pero sus propiedades aún
no han sido completamente confirmadas por la investigación clínica. Ha sido probado
contra la inflamación, infecciones por microbios, epilepsia y como repelente de
mosquitos. Sus hojas de sabor fuerte son usadas en cocina para aderezar carnes de res,
cordero y pescado. Sus hojas frescas usadas para dar aroma a la ropa en lavandería.
Puede ser un buen sustituto del orégano común el cualquier platillo.
*
It is also known as Spanish thyme or Mexican mint. It can reach a meter in height. He is
native to South America and East Africa. It has been naturalized in tropical areas around
the world. It has been used as an ornamental plant, traditional medicine and seasoning.
It grows in coastal forests, rocky slopes and sandy floors at low altitude above sea level.
USOS. It has traditionally been used as a home remedy, but its properties have not yet
been fully confirmed by clinical research. It has been tested against inflammation,
infections by microbes, epilepsy and as a mosquito repellent. Its strong flavor leaves are
used in the kitchen to flavor beef, lamb and fish. Its fresh leaves used to give flavor to
clothes in laundry. It can be a good substitute for common oregano on any dish.
RÁBANO / RADISH
Raphanus sativus
USEs. The root is consumed raw in salads, although it can also be cooked. It
contains a high content of fiber, vitamins (mainly B and C), minerals and lots of
water (almost 95%). Anticancer properties are attributed to it. It is able to
neutralize bacteria and fungi. In the same way it helps to eliminate calculations.
It has a mild laxative effect. In Mexico it is used to accompany foods such as
tacos and pozole. Infusions can be made with the leaves
CAFETO / ARABIAN COFFEE
Coffea arabica
Hierba erecta que alcanza hasta un metro de altura. Sus flores despiden un
olor característico al estrujarse. Es originaria de Estados Unidos, México y
Guatemala. Se encuentra en climas cálidos, semicálidos, semisecos y
templados. Crece desde el nivel del mar hasta los 3900 metros de altura en
huertos familiares, terrenos abandonados, bosques tropicales y matorrales.
Los antiguos mexicanos le dieron un carácter divino.
USOS: En la actualidad es recomendado en todo México como eficaz para
tratar dolor de estómago, cólicos, dolor e inflamación en la boca del
estómago. Sus ramas se cuecen y se prepara una infusión. Algunas veces se
le acompaña con ruda, epazote y hierbabuena. Da su sabor característico al
biter, una bebida alcohólica.
*
Erect grass that reaches up to one meter in height. Its flowers give off a
characteristic smell when squeezed. It is native to the United States,
Mexico and Guatemala. It is found in warm, semi-warm, semi-dry and
temperate climates. It grows from sea level to 3900 meters in family
gardens, abandoned land, tropical forests and bushes. The ancient
Mexicans gave it a divine character.
USES: Currently, it is recommended throughout Mexico as effective to
treat stomach pain, cramps, pain and inflammation in the mouth of the
stomach. Its branches are cooked and an infusion is prepared. Sometimes it
is accompanied with rue, epazote and mint. It gives its characteristic flavor
to the biter, an alcoholic beverage.
AGUACATE / AVOCADO
Persea americana
*
Tree native to Mesoamerica, domesticated for about 7,000 years, although its
fruits have been consumed since about 9,500. It is grown in places with tropical
climate. In the wild it can reach twenty meters, although it usually grows
between eight and twelve. Its fruits have different sizes depending on the variety.
Mexico alone has 30% of world production.
USES: The fruit is rich in vitamins, fatty acids, proteins and minerals; but it
should be eaten with moderation, because it contains many calories. It is used in
salads, as garnish and in the preparation of a sauce called guacamole. Its dried
leaves are used as a seasoning in the preparation of barbecue and enfrijoladas. Its
fruit and its oils are widely used as beauty products, both for the skin and for the
hair. Its leaves are used to make expectorants.
GONDO O CAPULÍN / BITTER BERRY OR CHOKECHERRY
Prunus virginiana
Crece desde Alaska hasta México. Es un arbusto pequeño que crece hasta
los cinco metros de altura, con frutos del tipo baya rojos brillantes o negros
con sabor ácido.
USOS: En medicina tradicional se usa en la preparación de un aguardiente
para aliviar enfermedades respiratorias, o para fabricar jarabe para la tos.
La corteza y las hojas se han usado para hacer tes para la gripe. Se dice que
es sedante y antiespasmódico. Sus frutos se consumen como golosina o en
ates. Sus frutos deben comerse sin semillas, pues estas son tóxicas.
Tampoco se debe abusar de infusiones de esta planta, pues puede producir
envenenamiento.
Hierba aromática nativa de India, Pakistán e Irán, cultivada desde hace varios
milenios. Se cultiva por esquejes o semillas en macetas o invernaderos a
principios o mediados de primavera. Exige una posición soleada y suelos
húmedos y fértiles.
USOS: Es frecuentemente usada en la gastronomía mediterránea para aderezar
ensaladas, salsas, sopas o guisos de todo tipo de carnes. Es el ingrediente básico
en el pesto. En Reino Unido es un ingrediente en la elaboración de salchichas.
Actualmente en Italia es símbolo de amor; y se le usa para condimentar pizzas y
pastas. En el caribe y Cuba es usada en sesiones de espiritismo, ya que se
considera que es capaz de ahuyentar a los males espíritus; mientras que en
México se cree que atrae la buena fortuna.
Aromatic herb native to India, Pakistan and Iran, cultivated for several millennia.
It is cultivated by cuttings or seeds, in pots or greenhouses, in early or mid-
spring. It demands a sunny position and humid and fertile soils.
USES: It is frequently used in Mediterranean gastronomy to flavor salads,
sauces, soups or stews of all kinds of meats. It is the basic ingredient in pesto. In
the United Kingdom it is an ingredient in the making of sausages. Currently in
Italy is a symbol of love; and it is used to flavor pizzas and pastas. In the
Caribbean and Cuba is used in sessions of spiritism, since it is considered that it
is able to drive away evil spirits; while in Mexico it is believed that it attracts
good fortune.
ORÉGANO / OREGANO
Oreganum vulgare
Es un arbusto chaparro de solo medio metro de alto, nativo de las zonas mediterráneas.
Según la mitología griega, la diosa del amor Afrodita plantó la primera planta de
orégano y le dio fragancia que posee. Está estrechamente relacionado pro la mejorana,
pero tienen un sabor muy diferente. La etimología de su nombre significa “hierba que
alegra el monte”.
USOS. sus propiedades han sido ampliamente estudiadas, siendo las más importantes su
actividad antioxidante y antimicrobiana. Otros estudios indican que es aséptica y se han
estudiado sus posibles usos antitumorales. Se le atribuyen propiedades digestivas. En la
medicina popular es usada como auxiliar en té para trata la tos y el dolor de garganta.
En gastronomía es muy apreciada y usada como condimento. Puede usarse fresca o
seca, pero seca tiene más aroma y sabor. Destaca en la cocina mediterránea,
principalmente la italiana, donde se usa para la salsa boloñesa. También se ele emplea
para aderezar pechugas de pollo, pizzas, sopas de verduras, guisos de papas y pan de
ajo.
It is a short shrub of only half a meter tall, native to the Mediterranean areas. According
to Greek mythology, the goddess of love Aphrodite planted the first oregano plant and
gave her fragrance. It is closely related to marjoram, but it tastes very different. The
etymology of its name means "grass that makes the mountain happy".
USOS. Its properties have been widely studied, the most important being its antioxidant
and antimicrobial activity. Other studies indicate that it is aseptic and its possible
antitumor uses have been studied. It is attributed digestive properties. In popular
medicine it is used as an aid in tea to treat cough and sore throat. In gastronomy it is
very appreciated and used as a condiment. It can be used fresh or dry, but dry has more
aroma and flavor. It stands out in Mediterranean cuisine, mainly Italian, where it is used
for Bolognese sauce. It is also used to garnish chicken breasts, pizzas, vegetable soups,
potato stews and garlic bread.
ACHIOTE O ACOTILLO / LIPSTICK TREE
Bixa Orellana
ZORILLO O APACÍN
Petiveria alliacea
Native medium size tree of tropical America. It is very ramified and can
reach 20 m. It is a colonizing species, so it is common to find it in forests,
hillsides and wastelands.
USES: The cooking of its fruits is used to treat colds, diarrhea, liver and
kidney diseases. Root decoctions are used to treat hemorrhoids, while those
of her bark are used against skin conditions. They are attributed anti-
inflammatory, appetitive, depurative, digestive and diuretic properties,
among others.
PASSIFLORA
Passiflora mexicana
Se distribuye desde el sudoeste de Estados Unidos hasta México, principalmente en los estados
de Colima, Jalisco, México, Michoacán, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Puebla, Sinaloa, Sonora y Veracruz.
Significa “flor de la pasión”, ya que los primeros misioneros en América creyeron ver los
instrumentos usados durante la Pasión de Cristo en las partes de la flor de esta planta. Se
desarrolla en bosques tropicales y florece y fructifica en febrero.
USOS: Su uso medicinal esta muy extendido para tratar los casos de nerviosismo, insomnio,
irritabilidad y ansiedad. Según la neuróloga y nutricionista Cathy Wong, tiene efectos
comparables a las benzodiacepinas. También es usada en infusiones como antiespasmódico para
reducir los síntomas premenstruales, la hinchazón abdominal y los cólicos. Combinada con
Clinidina se usa para tratar los síntomas relacionados con el Síndrome de Abstinencia de
narcóticos. Es recomendada para personas con hipertensión arterial. En cataplasmas se usa para
reducir la hinchazón de hemorroides y quemaduras. Es usada en suplementos nutricionales y
medicamentos comerciales. A pesar de sus pocos efectos secundarios, no se recomienda en
mujeres embarazadas o dando pecho.
It is distributed from the southwestern United States to Mexico, mainly in the states of Colima,
Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacán, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Puebla, Sinaloa, Sonora and Veracruz. It means
"flower of passion", since the first missionaries in America believed to see the instruments used
during the Passion of Christ in the parts of the flower of this plant. It develops in tropical forests
and blooms and fructifies in February.
USES: Its medicinal use is very extended to treat cases of nervousness, insomnia, irritability and
anxiety. According to neurologist and nutritionist Cathy Wong, it has effects comparable to
benzodiazepines. It is also used in infusions as an antispasmodic to reduce premenstrual
symptoms, abdominal swelling and colic. Combined with Clinidina, it is used to treat symptoms
related to Narcotics Withdrawal Syndrome. It is recommended for people with high blood
pressure. In poultices it is used to reduce the swelling of hemorrhoids and burns. It is used in
nutritional supplements and commercial medicines. Despite its few side effects, it is not
recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Also commonly called maguey, it blooms only once after a decade of life,
the it dies. It produces a floral stem of a few meters of height. The agave
has already been used by Mesoamericans for about 9,000 years, to produce
sugars. In recent decades it has been cultivated in a hundred hectares in
western Jalisco.
USES: The use of agave sugar declined after the popularization of sugar
cane extraction. With the agave, different alcoholic beverages can be
produced, such as mezcal, tequila, raicilla and pulque. Many are cultivated
as ornament in gardens or to build living fences. Forage can be produced
with its leaves. The agave is being studied for its possible uses as dietary
fiber or probiotic.
PIÑA / PINEAPPLE
Ananas comosus
Especie de escaso porte con hojas duras y en forma de lanza de hasta un metro de largo,
que da un solo fruto una vez cada tres años, llamado del mismo nombre, el cual es
fragante, ácido cuando verde y dulce cuando maduro, muy apreciado en gastronomía.
Es nativa de América del sur, donde se le conoce más como ananá y se cultiva en zonas
tropicales. Acepta cualquier tipo de suelo siempre y cuando tenga buen drenaje, pero los
suelos inundados pueden podrir sus raíces. Para dar fruto necesita de calor de alrededor
de los 24º.
USOS: Su uso culinario puede ser fresco o en conserva. Se usa habitualmente como
postre y en ensaladas. Se producen con ella jugos, helados, yogures y mermeladas. Es
ingrediente principal de la piña colada; y con la piña fermentada se produce el tepache.
La bromelina que contiene ayuda a metabolizar los alimento. El fruto es usado como
vitamínico, diurético y antiinflamatorio. En uso tópico, limpia heridas menores y
úlceras. El corazón del fruto se usa como adelgazante dietético por su alto contenido en
fibra y ser ligeramente laxante.
Species of scanty bearing with hard leaves in form of spear, of up to one meter of
length, that gives a single fruit once every three years, called of the same name, which is
fragrant, acid when green and sweet when mature, very appreciated in gastronomy. It is
native to South America, where it is grown in tropical areas. Accept any type of soil as
long as it has good drainage, but flooded soils can rot their roots. To bear fruit, it needs
heat of around 24º.
USES: Its culinary use can be fresh or canned. It is commonly used as a dessert and in
salads. They produce juices, ice creams, yogurts and jams. It is the main ingredient of
piña colada; and with the fermented pineapple the tepache is produced. The bromelain
that it contains helps to metabolize the food. The fruit is used as a vitamin, diuretic and
anti-inflammatory. In topical use, cleans minor wounds and ulcers. The heart of the fruit
is used as a dietary slimming because of its high fiber content and being slightly
laxative.
FRIJOL / BEAN
Phaseoulus vulgaris
Es más pequeño que el naranjo. Sus frutos son llamados mandarinas y contienen
una gran de cantidad de vitamina C. China ha sido el principal productor de
mandarina. Proviene de las zonas tropicales de Asia. Se cree que el nombre del
fruto se debe al color de los trajes que utilizaban los mandarines, gobernantes de
la antigua China
USOS: Las mandarinas son usualmente consumidas frescas, pero también se
pueden comer en mermelada. De ellas se obtiene un aceite para esencial usado en
perfumería. Es una golosina buena para dar a los niños, ya que es fácil de pelar.
La pula de mandarina contiene además vitamina B, ácido cítrico, azúcar
reductora y caroteno, aunque no en grandes cantidades. Tiene propiedades
bronquiodilatadoras y antinflamatorias. Ayuda a hacer una buena digestión.
*
It is smaller than the orange tree. Its fruits are called tangerines and contain a
large amount of vitamin C. China has been the main producer of tangerine. It
comes from the tropical areas of Asia. It is believed that the name of the fruit is
due to the color of the costumes worn by the mandarins, rulers of ancient China
USES: Tangerines are usually consumed fresh, but they can also be eaten in jam.
From them you get an essential oil used in perfumery. It is a good treat to give to
children, since it is easy to peel. The tangerine pula also contains vitamin B,
citric acid, reducing sugar and carotene, although not in large quantities. It has
bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to make a good
digestion.
GUAYABO / GUAVA
Psidium guajava
Árbol pequeño. Crece entre tres y diez metros de alto. Tiene frutos tipo baya, hasta de 8
cm de diámetro, globosos u ovoide. En México se encuentra de forma silvestre en las
cercanías de la Sierra Madre Oriental y Occidental. Se cultiva en México, Centro y
Sudamérica. Se ha convertido en muy habitual en regiones ganaderas del trópico
húmedo. El fruto es fragante y agridulce, con pulpa de colores rosado intenso, naranja,
blanca y sus intermedios.
USOS. Su fruta llamada guayaba se comercializa industrialmente por sus propiedades
nutritivas. Contiene vitamina C. La guayaba es procesada en jaleas. La pulpa es usada
para tratar algunos parásitos intestinales. La raíz se usa contra la diarrea. Suplementos
alimenticios con extractos de hojas de guayaba son usados para controlar algunos
síntomas de la colitis, para lo cual también puede hacerse un té con sus hojas. Es
recomendable no abusar de estos últimos, pues el abuso puede producir estreñimiento.
*
Small tree. It grows between three and ten meters high. It has berry-like fruits, up to 8
cm in diameter, globose or ovoid. In Mexico it is found wild in the vicinity of the Sierra
Madre Oriental and Occidental. It is grown in Mexico, Central and South America. It
has become very common in livestock regions of the humid tropics. The fruit is fragrant
and bittersweet, with deep pink, orange or white pulp and its intermediates.
USOS. Its fruit called guava is commercialized industrially for its nutritional properties.
It contains vitamin C. The guava is processed in jellies. The pulp is used to treat some
intestinal parasites. The root is used against diarrhea. Food supplements with extracts of
guava leaves are used to control some symptoms of colitis, for which you can also make
tea with its leaves. It is advisable not to abuse the latter, because the abuse can cause
constipation.
Es nativa del Amazonas. Crece hasta veinte metros de altura. Sus frutos son de
pulpa fibrosa-harinosa, crecen arracimados y son llamados cocos de aceite.
USOS: La palma tiene valor comercial debido a que con sus cocos se produce un
aceite comestible, que también es usado en el cuidado de la piel. Recientemente
se ha experimentado con este aceite para la fabricación de biodiesel. Las hojas
proveen de paja para hacer techos de casas y palapas, además de aprovecharse
como material de construcción y para hacer artesanías Los tallos son maderables.
Del corazón de la palma se extrae un jugo. El fruto se considera medicinal, y con
él se elaboran bebidas.
*
It is native to the Amazon. It grows up to twenty meters high. Its fruits are
fibrous-floury pulp, grow clustered and are called oil coconuts.
USES: The palm has commercial value because its coconuts produce an edible
oil, which is also used in skin care. Recently, this oil has been experimented in
the production of biodiesel. The leaves provide straw to make roofs of houses
and palapas, besides being used as construction material and to make crafts. The
stems are timber. A juice is extracted from the heart of the palm. The fruit is
considered medicinal, and drinks are made with it.
GROSELLA / STAR GOOSEBERRY TREE
Phyllanthus acidus
*
Plant from one to 3 m high, leafy and showy because of its large leaves, more or
less heart-shaped, that emerge from the ground. When the leaves are young they
are rolled, they are green on the front and pale on the back. Native to tropical
America. It lives in warm and semi-warm climates, in very humid and shady
places, and on roadsides. It is associated with tropical forests.
USES: This plant is used in sprains and bites of poisonous animals. In Veracruz a
plaster of bandaged leaves is used on a warm canvas, leaving it to act long for the
headache. In bruising strokes, the root is applied in poultice to reduce
inflammation. They attribute it anti-inflammatory properties. With no historical
background on its medicinal use, nor scientific information that validates any of
the effects attributed to it, it is of interest to be investigated. It serves as an
ornament in interior and exterior gardens.
GARRA DE TIGRE O COSTILLA DE ADÁN / CHEESE PLANT OR
MONSTER FRUIT
Monstera deliciosa
JÍCAMA / JICAMA
Pachyrhizus erosus
Legumbre cultivada principalmente por su tubérculo, también llamado jícama, el cual es
comestible. En náhuatl xicamatl significa raíz acuosa. Tras la conquista de México fue
llevada por los españoles a Filipinas, de donde se extendió a otras partes de Asia. El
sabor de la jicama es dulce y almidonado. Generalmente se consume crudo, con sal,
limón y chile, como golosina, o en ensaladas. También se puede cocinar en sopas, asar y
freír. En contraste con el tubérculo, el resto de la planta es tóxico.
USOS: El tubérculo contiene 90% de agua. Tiene vitamina C, calcio, fósforo, potasio y
hierro. En lugares secos, el tubérculo puede conservarse de uno a dos meses. En
Morelos se le usa contra el dolor de riñón y la gota. Se informa que médicos probaron
con éxito la tintura de la semilla para curar la sarna, aplicándola en las heridas, sola o
con aceite de ricino. Las semillas molidas se pueden usar también para combatir plagas.
Legume cultivated mainly by its tuber, also called jicama, which is edible. In Nahuatl
xicamatl means watery root. After the conquest of Mexico, it was taken by the
Spaniards to the Philippines, from where it spread to other parts of Asia. The flavor of
the jicama is sweet and starchy. Generally, it is consumed raw, with salt, lemon and
chili, as a treat, or in salads. It can also be cooked in soups, roast and fry. In contrast to
the tuber, the rest of the plant is toxic.
USES: The tuber contains 90% water. It has vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, potassium
and iron. In dry places, the tuber can be stored for one to two months. In Morelos it is
used against kidney pain and gout. It is reported that doctors successfully tested the
tincture of the seed to cure scabies, applying it to the wounds, alone or with castor oil.
The ground seeds can also be used to fight pests.
GUAMÚCHIL
Pithecellobium dulce
Nativa de México, Centro y Sudamérica. Es un árbol de mediano tamaño y
que crece rápido. Los árboles miden entre 5 y 22 m de altura. Sus frutos
son vainas delgadas de hasta 20 cm de largo enroscadas, rojizas y rosadas,
las cuales se abren por ambos lados para liberar las semillas. Crece en
climas tropicales y subtropicales; y se considera resistente a la sequía y al
calor.
USOS: El árbol ha sido usado exitosamente para reforestación y
producción de leña y forraje. En México, es común el encontrar las frutas a
la venta en los mercados de los pueblos por sus arilos dulces y carnosos
que se comen, solos o con sal y chile en polvo. Se les considera
antiparasitarias y astringentes. También son llamadas guamarras.
MANGO
Mangifera indica
Árbol siempreverde que llega a alcanzar los 45 m se altura, con una copa de 30 m de
diámetro. Da un fruto con bue sabor, el cual es verde en un principio y luego amarillo,
naranja o incluso rojo granate según la variedad y tiene un sabor medianamente ácido
cuando no está bien maduro. Es originario de la India e indochina, Ha sido Introducido
a los países tropicales y algunos templados. No requiere de riego y resiste a los
incendios.
USOS: Es también maderable cuando acaba su fase productiva de frutos. La madera se
utiliza para la fabricación de instrumentos como ukeleles y muebles baratos. En Cuba,
el fruto se le usa preparar refrescos. En el Amazonas se le usa como abortivo tomando
una decocción de hojas durante tres días seguidos. El uso del fruto como alimento es
ampliamente distribuido a nivel mundial. En El Salvador, es una tradición que en la
época de la Semana Santa se use en la gastronomía preparándolo con dulce de panela y
azúcar. También es muy común comerlo picado son sal, limón y chile.
*
Evergreen tree that reaches 45 m height, with a 30 m diameter cup. It gives a fruit with
good flavor, which is green at first and then yellow, orange or even garnet red according
to the variety and has a mild acid taste when it is not well ripe. It is native to India and
Indochina, has been introduced to tropical countries and some temperate. Does not
require irrigation and resists fires.
USES: It is also timber when it ends its productive phase. Wood is used to make
instruments such as ukuleles and cheap furniture. In Cuba, the fruit is used to prepare
soft drinks. In the Amazon it is used as an abortive taking a decoction of leaves for three
days in a row. The use of the fruit as food is widely distributed worldwide. In El
Salvador, it is a tradition that in the time of Holy Week is used in gastronomy preparing
it with sweet sugar and sugar. It is also very common to eat it chopped are salt, lemon
and chili.
Bush also known as winter rose. Native to the east and the tropical and
subtropical south of Africa and Arabia. It is always green. It reaches
between one and three meters in height. It gives flowers of red color to pink
with white bursts. It requires sunny location. It needs little water like cacti.
It is propagated by seeds or cuttings. It has a highly toxic sap.
USE: It is often grown as bonsai. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant
in temperate regions. Because it is toxic, it has no other uses. The akies of
Tanzania apply the sap of the plant to their arrows to produce poisoning.
It is native to South America and has been naturalized in the Antilles and
Mexico. The plant can reach three or four meters, giving short stems with
short groups of leaves. Its flower is confused with the flower of paradise. It
gives a flower of strange appearance that is appreciated for its curious
shape and vibrant colors.
USES: It is frequently cultivated as a garden plant because it is very showy
when it blooms.
Native of South America and Central America. It can measure between two
and five meters in height. Their stems are equally corpulent, measuring
between one and 3.5 centimeters. In appearance it lacks leaves. From some
of its stems come branches.
USES: It has been described as a diuretic, astringent and healing. It is
commonly used as an ornamental plant in warm regions of humid climate.
It grows mainly in the Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia, as in the
Tarahumara Sierra of Mexico. It was cultivated in Peru long before the Inca
Empire. In Mexico it is also known as blue corn, color due to a pigment that
contains, which is also found in cranberry, cherry, raspberry, purple cabbage and
plums. It was represented in the pottery of the Mochina culture that dates back
more than 2,500 years ago.
USES: Purple corn is very healthy for humans because it contains many
components very important for health. It contains an antioxidant with proven
medicinal properties, which helps reduce blood cholesterol and lower blood
pressure, in addition to protecting the arteries. In Peru, a refreshing drink called
chicha morada is prepared with blue corn. With the traditional tortillas can be
made.
OBELISCO / CHINA ROSE
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Arbusto de 2 a 3 m de altura, de tallos ramificados. Sus hojas son alargadas y
puntiagudas con los bordes aserrados. Las flores, solitarias, están en la unión del
tallo y las hojas se presentan en varios colores. Las flores pueden tener una o dos
hieras de pétalos. Es originaria del sureste de Asia y está presente en climas
cálido, semicálido y templado. Está asociada a bosques tropicales.
*
Shrub 2 to 3 m high, with branched stems. Its leaves are elongated and pointed
with serrated edges. The flowers, solitary, are at the junction of the stem and the
leaves are presented in various colors. The flowers may have one or two peels of
petals. It is native to Southeast Asia and is present in warm, semi-warm and
temperate climates. It is associated with tropical forests.
USES: In Mexico, the flower, which is edible, is widely recommended against
cough, in the form of tea, alone or accompanied by leaves. It has also been
reported useful in the flu and asthma. In combination with other plants it is used
to cure intestinal or eye infections. In the Huasteca, the flowers are used in a
ceremonial context during which they are deposited on the altar of the church to
thank for some healing. It is cultivated in family gardens and as an ornament in
gardens of houses.