Fresh leaves are crushed and applied directly to the painful or inflamed area, sometimes slightly warmed before application. This preparation is traditionally renewed once or twice daily. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
A leaf decoction is prepared and then used in warm compresses on the skin, never for internal use according to consulted sources. The preparation must be freshly made and professional advice is recommended before any use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
This plant grows wild in the understory and forest edges of South America, particularly in Brazil; it remains rare outside its native range and is hardly cultivated or commercially available in Europe.
Leaves are traditionally harvested during the warm, humid season, when the plant is in full vegetative growth.