Boldo

Valeriana officinalis L.

Boldo is an evergreen, aromatic tree or shrub native to Chile. Its firm, leathery leaves contain bitter compounds, alkaloids, and essential oil.

Preparations made from boldo leaves are traditionally used to treat mild digestive complaints such as bloating, flatulence, and mild cramping.

Profile

  • German name: Boldo
  • Botanical name: Peumus boldus Molina
  • Family: Monimiaceae
  • Plant type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
  • Height: Several meters in nature
  • Part of the plant used: Leaves
  • Smell: Aromatic
  • Flavor: Bitter and spicy

Boldo grows as a densely branched shrub or small tree. The opposite leaves are oval, thick, leathery, and slightly rough on the surface. Small glands in the leaves contain the characteristically fragrant essential oil.

Boldo is usually dioecious. Male and female flowers are therefore found on different plants. The small, whitish- to yellowish-colored flowers develop into small, fleshy fruits on female plants.

Related Health Topics

  • Digestion, Liver, and Intestines
  • Feeling of fullness
  • Flatulence
  • Bile