Boldo

At a Glance

Common name

Boldo

Scientific name

Peumus boldus

Family

Monimiaceae

Region

South America

Plant part

Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An evergreen shrub of Chilean hills with small oval leathery aromatic leaves, small clustered white bell-like flowers, and small edible green-yellow berries; the leaves are the part used.

Also known as: Boldina, Boldo Leaf, Chilean Boldo

Historical Background

Boldo is a fragrant evergreen of the Chilean hills, used for centuries by the Mapuche people for digestive and liver comfort. Its warm, camphor-like leaves brew a traditional South American after-meal tea, later adopted in European herbalism.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Mapuche traditions of Chile for centuries; a digestive and liver herb later adopted in South American and European medicine.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Aromatic, warm, slightly bitter, camphor-like

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Boldo has a tradition as a digestive and liver herb; preclinical work shows antioxidant and choleretic activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient and it is not a treatment for liver disease, gallstones, or any condition; avoid in liver/bile-duct disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.