Medusantha martiusii
StarMedusantha martiusii
Synonyms: Hyptis brachyphylla, Hyptis martiusii, Mesosphaerum brachyphyllum, Mesosphaerum martiusii
Western Herbalism Properties
Traditional Uses
In north-eastern Brazilian (caatinga) folk medicine, leaf infusions and macerations of Medusantha martiusii (locally 'cidreira-brava' or 'cordão-de-frade') are used as a digestive carminative and anti-inflammatory remedy and as a domestic insecticide; the essential oil is rich in 1,8-cineole and beta-caryophyllene (Mors, Rizzini & Pereira, 2000; Agra et al., 2007).
Botanical Description
Medusantha martiusii (Benth.) Harley & J.F.B.Pastore (Lamiaceae), formerly known as Hyptis martiusii, is an aromatic perennial subshrub 0.5–1.5 m tall endemic to north-eastern Brazil, particularly the caatinga of Ceará, Pernambuco, Bahia and Piauí. The stems are quadrangular, woody at the base, and clothed with short whitish hairs. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, 3–8 cm long, with crenate-serrate margins, rugose surfaces, dense gland dots and a strong camphoraceous-mint scent when crushed. The inflorescences are globose, head-like cymes (capitula) borne on long axillary peduncles and densely surrounded by white woolly bracts that give the species the appearance of a small medusa head — hence the genus name. The flowers are small, bilabiate, white to pale lilac. Nutlets are minute, ovoid and dark. It grows on rocky and sandy ground in caatinga and dry forest margins. In Brazilian sertão folk medicine the aromatic leaves are used as a digestive and anti-inflammatory remedy and a domestic insect repellent.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
📝 Notes
Public notes from the community and your own private notes on Medusantha martiusii.
No notes yet.