Generic Name: Myrcia

Category

Synonyms

Beta-amyrin, catechin, desmanthin-1, gallic acid, ginkgoic acid, guaijaverin, mearnsitrin, Myrcia multiflora, Myrcia salicifolia, Myrcia sphaerocarpa, Myrcia uniflora, myricitrin myrciacitrin I, myrciacitrin II, myrciacitrins III, myrciacitrin VI, myrciacitrin V, myrciaphenone A, myrciaphenone B, Myrtaceae, pedra hume caá, pedra-ume-caá, quercitrin, rodwood.

Note: Do not confuse Myrcia (Myrtaceae family) with the bayberry genus Myrica (or Morella in the Myricaceae family).

Background

Pedra hume caá is a medium-sized shrub that grows in drier regions of the Amazon and other parts of Brazil. In Brazil, the common name pedra hume caá refers to three species of myrcia plants that are used interchangeably-Myrcia salicifolia, Myrcia uniflorus, and Myrcia sphaerocarpa. It is unknown if reports on pedra hume caá can be applied to other species in the myrcia genus.

Pedra hume caá has been used by indigenous tribes in the rainforest for diabetes, diarrhea, and dysentery. The Taiwanos tribe (in northwest Amazonia) considers the leaves to be an astringent and uses them for persistent diarrhea. Pedra hume caá has had a place in Brazilian traditional medicine for many years.

It remains a very popular natural remedy for diabetes throughout South America; the traditional use is a simple leaf tea with a pleasant, slightly sweet taste. It is also used for hypertension (high blood pressure), enteritis (inflammation of the bowels), hemorrhage, and mouth ulcers.

Evidence

Diabetes (type 2): Myrcia has been used traditionally by indigenous tribes in the rainforest to treat diabetes. Human study has not confirmed a blood sugar lowering benefit in type 2 diabetic patients. More research is warranted to make a strong recommendation.
Grade: C

Tradition

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older):

Based on the available scientific evidence, there is no proven safe or effective dose for myrcia. Traditionally, one cup of leaf infusion has been taken 2-3 times daily with meals or 1-2 grams of leaf powder in tablets or capsules has been taken with meals. Infusion of 3 grams of leaves per day for 56 days has been used in one human trial with no clinical benefit.

Children (younger than 18 years):

Based on the available scientific evidence, there is no proven safe or effective dose for myrcia in children and use is not recommended.