Ageratum conyzoides Linn
Family: Asteraceae.
Common names: Goat weed, Billy goat weed, chickweed, green tea leaf, white head weed, agadi nwanyi isi awõ (Igbo) and imi-esu (Yoruba).
An annual herbaceous plant with a characteristic odor, which makes one think of the male goat, hence, the common name billy goat weeds. Ageratum grows up to 1M in height with fine white hairs on the stem. The roots are fibrous and the stems become strong and woody as they grow. Flowers are white to mauve in color and are conspicuously arranged in close terminal flower heads. The herb is known as an environmental, invasive weed often found in cultivated fields and other ecosystems, such as woodlands, grasslands, wastelands, roadsides and even forests.
The phytochemical components of ageratum which attribute to its analgesic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, anti oxidant, antibacterial, antipyretic, antidysenteric, wound healing properties as well as nematicidal activities include: alkaloids, resins, saponins, tannins, glycosides and flavonoids.
Parts used leaves: Dried under shade and powdered, if desired. The leaves can be used fresh, in which case it is juiced.
The plant is a calming herb that people have used for thousands of years to help soothe an upset stomach or indigestion (discomfort in the upper abdomen). Indigestion describes certain symptoms, such as belly pain and a feeling of fullness soon after you start eating, rather than a specific disease. However, it can also be a symptom of other digestive disorders like – acid reflux, peptic ulcer disease or even a more complex condition.
People who experience indigestion often report other symptoms along with it, such as: heartburn (burning feeling in the stomach/chest), which may be recurring.
Pain in the upper abdomen sometimes radiates to the back; belching, nausea or vomiting (sometimes vomiting blood or “coffee” like material); gas, burping, regurgitation (when swallowed food comes back up); loss of appetite, bitter taste and feeling sick.
There are several reasons one may develop indigestion, some of which are: Overeating or eating too quickly, fatty, greasy or spicy foods; Poor nutrition, allergies to certain foods; Too much caffeine, drinking too much alcohol and prolonged use of certain medications (e.g. antibiotics, pain relievers and iron supplements); acidic drinks/juices with citric acids, chocolate or carbonated beverages.
Also, infection with the bacteria helicobacter pylori, where the organisms break down the lining of the stomach. Other diseases such as pernicious anemia (resulting from vitamin B12 deficiency), autoimmune disorders and chronic bile reflux can also cause the condition. Nowadays, even physical stresses and anxiety are considered causative factors.
A lot of studies support the use of extracts from the species as a remedy for a range of gastrointestinal conditions, including indigestion, IBS, stomach pain in children, and feelings of sickness after surgery. Ageratum has been noted to work against harmful microbes, regulate muscle relaxation, and help control inflammation. Active enzymes in the plant improve the flow of stomach acids, which can help to relieve indigestion and its accompanying symptoms. Ageratum can also help to treat peptic ulcers as well as sores in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
The conventional treatment for indigestion involves taking antacids or other drugs to reduce stomach acid. While these drugs work quickly to ease symptoms, Ageratum may help correct the root causes of indigestion. Traditionally, the species has been used against gastric mucosal inflammation and also against H. pylori, thus having antimicrobial activity besides anti-inflammatory effects. A cup of the infusion or decoction is taken 3 x daily.
Ageratum tea is prepared by infusing one tablespoon of the dried leaves in about 150 ML of freshly boiled water for 15 minutes. It can also be prepared by decoction, an aggressive process of extraction (where the leaves/blossoms are boiled under medium to low heat for 45 minutes, or till the volume of water is reduced by one quarter).
Apart from being a powerful gastro protector, the whole plant has been used to treat wounds, sores (fresh or chronic), burns, bruises and bacterial diseases. In some places, the herb is used in treatment of inflammation, toothaches, piles, pain, and diarrhea. In other places, the juice is commonly used to treat skin diseases like craw-craw/itches; gonorrhea, red eye, sleeping sickness. The herb has also been effectively used for uterine bleeding and to aid conception.
Ageratum can also be combined with other plants like basil (ocimum gratissimum, effirin, nchuanwu), peppermint (mentha piperita), and chamomile e.t.c for the treatment of indigestion.
Remember to take small sips of water when you’re experiencing indigestion. This may help a little. If you have acid reflux in your esophagus, the water may help wash the acid back down into your stomach. If your stomach seems slow to digest and release your food, a little water may help move things along while also diluting the acid. Please don’t drink so much that it expands your stomach, or it might have the opposite effect. Also, see your physician if you have persistent indigestion so as to rule out any underlying factor.