Content
The beneficial properties of the bark of the ant tree are especially appreciated in the countries of Latin America. It is used for the manufacture of dietary supplements. The tree got its name due to the fact that ants settle in its bark. In the scientific community, the plant is also called tahibo and lapacho.
What is the bark of the ant tree
The ant tree is a plant belonging to the Bignonium family and the Tabebuya genus. It grows throughout Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Central and South America. The ant tree can reach a height of 30 m, and its diameter is about 80 cm. It is considered an evergreen plant. It prefers abundant watering and bright sun. The tree shed its leaves only before flowering.
The bark of the ant tree is distinguished by the absence of knots. It has a yellowish color. Its distinctive feature is its excellent strength and resistance to environmental conditions. Due to its unique composition, it began to be used as an ingredient in popular dietary supplements.
Composition of the bark of the ant tree
The benefits of the bark of the ant tree for the human body are due to its unique composition. It contains the substance lapachol, which has anti-cancer activity. In addition, the bark contains many substances that can deal with free radicals. In medicine, it is considered the richest source of vitamins and minerals. Scientists were interested in the unique features of the composition of the bark back in the 1960s. The following elements were found in it:
- quinoids;
- cellulose;
- flavonoids;
- antioxidants;
- trace elements (iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, potassium and calcium);
- benzoids;
- amino acids;
- lapachol;
- quinones;
- vitamins of groups B and C;
- xylodine;
- coenzyme Q10;
- carnisol;
- steroidal saponins.
The fiber present in the bark of the ant tree ensures the proper functioning of the digestive tract. Amino acids take part in the process of cell renewal. Xylodin has a destructive effect on the cells of viruses and fungi. The vitamin component accelerates the regeneration process of the skin surface. Coenzyme Q10 contained in wood prevents age-related skin changes. Flavonoids provide powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
Release form
Pharmaceutical companies produce ant tree bark in a wide variety of forms. It is included in biological supplements and herbal preparations. In dried form, it can be found in pharmacies in the form of medicinal tea. There is also an alcoholic tincture of the bark. The most widespread are capsules intended for oral administration and powder for dilution with water.
Why is ant tree bark useful?
The bark is widely used in medicine. This is due to its antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activity. In some cases, it is even used to inhibit the development of parasites in the body. The remedy helps cleanse the body of toxic substances and strengthen the immune system. It is used not only for treatment, but also for preventive purposes. The medicinal properties of the bark of the ant tree are as follows:
- antiparasitic property;
- oxygenation of tissues;
- normalization of the gastrointestinal tract;
- removal of toxins and toxins from the body;
- decreased blood sugar;
- anti-inflammatory action;
- elimination of fungal infections;
- antispasmodic action;
- prevention of cell oxidation by free radicals;
- participation in the formation of erythrocytes;
- lowering the level of bad cholesterol in the blood;
- improved blood supply;
- stabilization of the emotional state;
- antiviral effect.
Useful properties of ant tree bark for men and women
The vitamins that make up the bark of the ant tree are equally beneficial for both women and men. The fair sex is often used to treat gynecological diseases. She does an excellent job with thrush and inflammatory processes in the pelvis. For men, ant tree bark can help increase physical stamina. It is especially useful for people involved in sports. When used correctly in adulthood, the remedy helps prevent the development of atherosclerosis. It is sometimes used to prevent and treat erectile dysfunction. The desired effect is achieved by normalizing blood circulation in the genital area.
What is useful for children
For children, drugs from the bark of the ant tree are indicated for admission for dysbiosis and diseases of the upper respiratory tract. It is considered safe for over 12 years of age. The bark is often used as part of antiparasitic therapy. With inflammation in the oral cavity and sore throat, a decoction of the bark is used for rinsing.
Bark application
The bark of the ant tree has a wide range of uses. It is especially effective against colds. First of all, it directs its action to activate the body's defenses. This allows you to resist various diseases. Medicines based on the wood of the miraculous plant are used both locally and for internal administration. They are sometimes used as a natural aphrodisiac.
With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
The bark of the ant tree copes well with diseases of the digestive system. In this case, it is recommended to drink it in tablet form. The drug is taken 3-4 capsules no more than 3 times a day. Reception is carried out 30 minutes before meals.
For skin diseases
Locally, the remedy is used mainly for fungal infections. The bark powder is diluted with a small amount of water until a homogeneous mass is obtained. It is applied to the problem area for 30-40 minutes. Then the gruel is washed off with warm water. The procedure is carried out until the problem disappears completely. Such therapy helps to stop the inflammatory process and get rid of fungal foci.
With parasitic diseases
The benefits of tea from the bark of the ant tree are observed in relation to parasitic diseases. Substances in its composition create an unfavorable environment for their reproduction.The antioxidant properties of the drink help eliminate the toxic effects of the disease. The greatest effectiveness of the remedy is noted for lamblia. They drink it in 1 tbsp. 2 times a day.
The bark of the ant tree during pregnancy
It is not recommended for pregnant women to use ant tree bark. It can provoke fetal abnormalities or miscarriage. A similar prohibition applies to women who are breastfeeding.
With a cold
For colds, it is recommended to take the bark of the ant tree in the form of capsules. They are taken 3 pieces 2 times a day. The treatment lasts for 2 weeks. As a preventive measure, the drug can be taken for a month. If a sore throat joins the cold, they practice rinsing the throat with a decoction of the bark. The procedure is carried out 4-5 times a day. Such therapy allows you to improve your well-being and prevent possible complications.
When losing weight
The bark of the ant tree has a mild laxative effect. Due to this, it contributes to weight loss. In addition, the remedy removes toxic substances and toxins from the body. It is often used to normalize the digestion process. Due to the supply of oxygen to tissues, the absorption of nutrients in the body improves. Along with this, the production of lipase is stimulated, which contributes to the proper breakdown of fats entering the body. In order to lose weight, a decoction of the bark is taken in 1 tbsp. no more than 3 times a day. After 1 month of admission, you need to take a short break.
Contraindications and possible harm
The bark of the ant tree has not only beneficial properties, but also contraindications. It is extremely important to consider them in order to prevent side symptoms. Contraindications include:
- impaired blood clotting;
- breast-feeding;
- pregnancy;
- kidney and liver diseases;
- age under 12.
Experts do not recommend taking the bark of the ant tree in conjunction with drugs that affect blood clotting. Also, you can not be treated with her immediately before surgery. For people with neurological diseases, it is advisable to limit the use of the cortex. If you use it in excessive amounts, you can face a number of side effects. Among them are:
- nausea and vomiting;
- thinning blood;
- discoloration of urine;
- allergic reaction;
- decreased reproductive function;
- anemia.
Conclusion
The beneficial properties of the bark of the ant tree are relevant for almost any disease. It has a stimulating effect on the immune system, helping the body to cope with the problem on its own. With the right approach, the remedy brings health back to normal without causing side effects.
