Muicle is a traditional medicinal plant native to Mexico and several regions of Central America. Scientifically, it is known as Justicia Spicigera. The herb holds excellent significance in Hispanic culture, as it was historically employed for its remarkable ability to make rich, dark blue color dye when boiled with water. Later on, people also discovered some health benefits of Muicle, which we will cover in this blog. We will tell you how you can enjoy Muicle herbal tea and the possible benefits and side effects of the herb.
Introduction to Muicle Plant Benefits
It is commonly known as “Honeysuckle” among the natives. Although most of the health benefits are under scientific studies and are treated as anecdotal. This herb is used to treat symptoms like headaches, infections, and reproductive system problems. This can be also used to boost digestive health and improve the circulation of blood. The natives experimented with its use and while mixing it with another natural herb Smilax ornate or Sarsaparilla it becomes very effective in cardiac problems.
About The Muicle (Justicia Spicigera): Appearance, Usage & More
The herb belongs to the Acanthaceae family which is known for its wide range of flowering plants. Muicle (Justicia Spicigera) typically grow up to 2 to 5 feet high preferably in warm temperature. It has bright orange flowers which attract different insects that can help in pollination. Below are some key features of the plant, so that it can be easily located and can be harnessed for its potential health benefits.
- Natural Habitat of Muicle
It is a part of the Acanthaceae family and native to Mexico and part of Central America. In this part of the world, we can find this plant in abundance in different ecosystems, it can grow in different climates and surroundings from coast to high altitude areas of up to 3000 meters high. It can adapt to different conditions, prefers warm and humid climates, and also sustain cold weather.
- Appearance of Muicle
We can easily identify the perennial shrub with its tubular-shaped bright reddish-orange flowers that have elongated spikes. The leaves are dark green and can grow up to 2 inches long. The overall height of the plant is between 2 to 5 feet high.
- Cultural Significance of Muicle
Muicle has been deeply rooted in Hispanic culture, apart from its traditional health benefits it holds a cultural significance among the communities where it is found. The flowers are used in various traditional rituals and ceremonies.
- Traditional & Medical Use
Traditionally it is used as a medicinal plant among indigenous communities in Mexico and parts of Central America. Different parts of plant like leaves, stems, and flowers are used to make medicine which proved out to be beneficial in various health issues like inflammation, parasitic infections, digestive health, and regulating blood sugar.
Nutritional Components of Muicle (Justicia Spicigera)
It is to be noted that Muicle is not used for its rich nutritional value. However, it may have some bioactive compounds that are beneficial for our overall health and they are,
- Muicle is Rich in Alkaloids, Flavonoids, and Tannins
A plant-based diet can be rich in phytochemicals like Alkaloids, Flavonoids, and Tannins which are rich in properties of being an antioxidant and anti-inflammation. They help reduce some chronic conditions, infections, colds, and coughs.
- Muicle has Dietary Fibers
Most of the plant-based medicines are a good source of dietary fiber. These are essential to keep our digestive system healthy. Fiber can help in curing constipation. It is said that when our gut is empty the efficiency of body increases and it can repair itself.
- Some Minerals and Vitamins
Muicle has a considerable number of Vitamins like A, B, and C. These are essential nutrients for our overall body development. We should not consider it as a Vitamin rich diet.
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How to Make Muicle Tea
One of the best ways to involve Muicle in our daily diet is by consuming its herbal tea. Normally we use dried leaves and stems to make the tea, and will guide you to make a hot cup of tea loaded with the goodness of Muicle.
Ingredients Required
- The dried form of Muicle especially stems and leaves. We can grind them and use the powder form.
- Water.
- Lemon or Honey (Optional).
Steps to Make the Tea
Step 1: Proper use of Muicle & Boil Water
- If we have fresh Muicle stems and leaves wash them well before use. Dried can also be ground.
- Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried or fresh Muicle. We can further adjust its amount with the strength of the tea.
- Boil a cup of water in a boiler.
Step 2: Steep & Strain the Tea
- Place the Muicle in a teapot and pour the hot water in it. Cover it with a lid and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- While steeping all the goodness of Muicle will be infused in the water. The longer we steep stronger the flavor will be.
- By using a fine mesh strain, it in a cup.
Step 3: Serve
- Add a dice of lemon, or honey as a sweetener (this part is optional).
- Enjoy your hot cup of goodness.
Muicle Tea Benefits
- Muicle Have Antioxidants & Anti-Inflammatory
Muicle is believed to contain some compounds which are excellent antioxidants. These compounds play an important role in combating and neutralizing oxidative stress produced by free radicals. The presence of these free radicals gives rise to many chronic diseases like high Blood Pressure, and high Blood Sugar.
Muicle can control inflammation in the body and help treat conditions like Arthritis and Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome or IBS
- Use of Muicle in Controlling Diabetes
Some early groundbreaking results of a scientific study show that when Muicle is taken regularly it can control the blood sugar levels over time. Type 2 diabetes is a curse for modern society, this herb not only controls the blood sugar but also guards those who are susceptible to it. It can be considered as a health supplement for diabetic patients.
- Muicle can Manage Conditions Like Edema and high BP
Muicle have diuretic properties which help to reduce water retention in the body by urination. When the body starts to retain water the toxic level inside also increases. With regular use of Muicle, we can stabilize Edema and high BP conditions.
- Muicle has anti-parasitic Properties
This may be the initial health benefit Muicle to treat parasitic infections, especially intestinal parasites.
Muicle Tea Side Effects
Muicle tea is perfectly natural and generally considered safe if consumed in moderation. We should still be aware of its potential side effects when taken for particular health benefits. It should be consumed as per the recommendation of a healthcare expert. Some of the potential side effects are.
- Diuretic Effect Can Cause Electrolyte Imbalance
The diuretic effect while consuming Muicle tea means it has the potential to reduce water retention by increasing urine production. This can be beneficial for those who are looking to shed some extra weight due to temporary fluid loss. However, it is important to know that it can also cause electrolyte imbalance if we do not consume enough liquid alongside Muicle tea. The body should be properly hydrated if we have decided to consume it over time.
- Allergic Interaction
It is one of the most common side effects to have while we are consuming a plant-based medicine. In case we are allergic to chia, and sesame seeds we may be allergic to Muicle. Allergic reactions can happen with symptoms like itching, redness, swelling, and shortness of breath. If it happens immediately consult a doctor before it gets worse.
- It Can Cause Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia is a condition when the blood sugar level falls low. It may happen with diabetic patients who are already taking medicines to maintain blood sugar. It is recommended to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and discuss the underlying health conditions with a healthcare expert before using Muicle.
- Digestive Discomfort
This can happen in case we have consumed it in excess without proper guidance. We can experience symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
Conclusion
We have understood the benefits of Muicle, and one of the most common ways to harness its benefits is to consume herbal tea made of the stem and leaves of the plant. To stay away from the potential side effects, we must consume it in moderation, under the supervision of a healthcare expert. The benefits of the Muicle plant are under the scrutiny of various scientific studies, for now, they are considered as anecdotal. The herb is traditionally used for its medicinal benefits in Mexico and many parts of Central America. As its popularity is increasing day by day more scientific studies are being conducted on the plant. For now, we should be strictly depending on it for a particular health benefit and should consult a doctor for any underlying health issues.
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