Guaco Tea: Benefits, How to Prepare, and When to Take It

Have you ever heard of guaco tea? This medicinal plant, native to South America and widely used in Brazil, is one of the most popular natural remedies for respiratory problems. And for good reason: guaco is known for its powerful expectorant, bronchodilator, and anti-inflammatory properties.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn about the benefits of guaco tea, how to prepare it correctly, when and how to take it, and the most important precautions and contraindications.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

---

What Is Guaco?

Guaco (Mikania glomerata) is a climbing plant from the Asteraceae family. It is also known in some regions as snake herb or wild guaco. It grows easily in tropical climates and has been widely used in Brazilian traditional medicine.

Its main active compound is coumarin, a substance responsible for relaxing the bronchial muscles, which helps open the airways and facilitates the elimination of mucus.

---

10 Proven Benefits of Guaco Tea

1. Relieves Persistent Cough

Guaco is best known for its effectiveness against coughs, whether dry or productive. Its bronchodilator action helps open the airways and reduce throat irritation.

2. Helps Treat Bronchitis

For people with acute or chronic bronchitis, guaco tea acts as an anti-inflammatory and expectorant, helping clear mucus from the lungs.

3. Natural Decongestant

If you’re experiencing chest congestion or a “blocked” feeling in your airways, guaco tea can help relieve respiratory discomfort naturally.

4. Supports Recovery from Colds and Flu

Guaco is an excellent complementary remedy during colds and flu, especially when symptoms include cough, fever, and nasal congestion.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Action

Beyond the respiratory system, guaco has general anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve sore throat, muscle pain, and joint discomfort.

6. Immune System Support

Some studies suggest that guaco may stimulate immune defenses, helping the body respond more effectively to infections.

7. Antiseptic Properties

Guaco can also be used externally as a compress to cleanse minor wounds or insect bites due to its antiseptic action.

8. Relaxes the Bronchial Muscles

It is especially helpful for people with mild asthma, as it helps reduce bronchial spasms and improves breathing comfort.

9. Antioxidant Effect

Guaco contains flavonoids that act as natural antioxidants, protecting cells against oxidative stress and premature aging.

10. Works Well Combined with Other Herbs

Guaco tea pairs well with other medicinal plants such as ginger, mint, and fennel, enhancing its respiratory benefits.

---

How to Prepare Guaco Tea Properly

Proper preparation is essential to extract guaco’s active compounds safely and effectively. The recommended method is infusion.

If you want to understand the difference between infusion, decoction, and other methods, see the guide: How to Prepare Herbal Tea Properly.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried guaco leaves
• 1 cup (250 ml) of filtered water

Directions

1. Heat the water until just below boiling (around 90 °C / 195 °F).
2. Turn off the heat and add the guaco leaves.
3. Cover and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink while warm.

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon of honey (soothes the throat)
• Fresh ginger slices (enhanced anti-inflammatory action)
• Mint leaves (adds freshness and supports breathing)

---

How and When to Take Guaco Tea

• Recommended intake: 2 to 3 cups per day
• Duration: up to 7 consecutive days

Do not use continuously for long periods. Excessive intake may lead to adverse effects because coumarin, in high doses, can be toxic.

---

Contraindications and Precautions

Guaco is a potent medicinal plant and is not suitable for everyone. Avoid or use only under professional guidance if you are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Living with liver disease
• Using anticoagulant medications
• Giving it to children under 2 years old

Excessive or prolonged use may increase the risk of bleeding, due to guaco’s anticoagulant effect.

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical care. Guaco tea should be used as a supportive remedy, not a substitute for prescribed treatment.

---

Where to Find Guaco

Guaco leaves can be found in:

• Natural health stores
• Compounding pharmacies
• Local markets and herbal fairs
• Home cultivation (with proper sunlight and space)

---

Herbal Combinations That Work Well with Guaco

Guaco can be combined with:

• Ginger – strengthens anti-inflammatory effects
• Fennel – supports digestion and eases cramps
• Chamomile – adds a calming effect
• Mint – improves breathing comfort

---

Conclusion: Guaco as a Natural Ally for Respiratory Health

Guaco tea is a valuable natural option for those seeking support for coughs, bronchitis, congestion, and respiratory inflammation. When prepared correctly and used responsibly, it offers effective and traditional support for respiratory well-being.

---

Prepare your tea the right way

If you plan to use this plant to make tea, use the Nutritive Blog tea infusion timer. Proper infusion time helps preserve active compounds and ensures better results.

---

Author Box

---