Chapparal

Species name: larrea divaricata.

What is Chaparral: What is chaparral and how is it used in herbal medicine today? Chaparral actually refers to more than one specific type of plant.

There is a wide range of plants that fall under the name chaparral but the species used medicinally such as in herbal supplements is larrea divaricata.

These plants grow in the California Mountains and are believed to contribute to and possibly even thrive from the California brush fires.

Chaparral is an interesting herb. It grows in the California mountains primarily and also in the mountains and deserts of Arizona and New Mexico. The word chaparral comes from the Spanish word chaparro, which means both small and dwarf evergreen oak, which itself comes from the Basque word txapar, with the same meaning. Chaparral consists of tall bushes and small trees with dark green leaves.

Over the years that is has been used, this herb has come under much scrutiny and controversy. It was believed to be dangerous at one time but after careful studies of the FDA, they approved it in 1994 to be used again as an herbal supplement. Chaparral is relatively inexpensive which is another reason why it is so popularly used in the treatment of different health conditions.

Home Remedies using Chaparral:

Benefits of Chaparral:

The active ingredient of chaparral is a potent antioxidant, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA). This makes it a powerful antioxidant. The herb is most famous for its supposed ability to treat cancer.

Chaparral tea is an old Indian remedy for cancer. Researched by the University of Utah, the FDA and other organizations, it is still believed to play a role in aiding cancer patients. It has even been used to treat herpes and asthma. It is believed that the ingredient, NDGA is what makes it work so well against so many different types of conditions.

Uses of Chaparral:

  • To help treat cancer
  • As an antibiotic
  • To treat bacteria, viruses and parasites
  • To remedy arthritis and rheumatism
  • To remedy the common cold
  • To aid with venereal diseases and tuberculosis
  • To ease bowel cramps
  • Often comes in a pill form as a supplement and may have Vitamin C added to it

Side Effects of Chaparral:

Large amounts may cause nausea, loss of appetite, gastric pain and vomiting.