Herb of the Month: Agave – A Thorny but Useful Plant

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by Maryann Readal

Archaeologists determined that the agave has been used since nearly 9,000 year (Tull 2013)! Native Americans in the Southwest, and indigenous peoples in Mexico have used agave since ancient times. The Herb Society of America celebrates agave’s history and uses by naming it Notable Native(tm), Herb of Year and first Herb of Month for 2024.

At least 270 species of agave exist, with many growing in the American Southwest and Mexico. Agave Americana is probably the species that we are most familiar with. After 10-20 years, it sends up a spectacular 15-20 foot stalk. The plant then dies. New shoots continue to grow at the base, replacing the original plant, ensuring this once-in-10-years show of flowers continues. Many years ago, it was known as the century plant because an agave bloomed in the Netherlands when it was 92 (Sydow 1987). It is possible that the plant bloomed so slowly because it wasn't growing in its natural environment.

The Agave plant is one that can survive in the desert heat and aridity. It is a favorite ornamental plant due to its drought resistance, unique look and dramatic appearance. Christopher Columbus recorded in his journal in 1493 that he brought this native plant back to Europe from the New World. Then, wealthy Europeans began to plant it in their gardens. Its unusual flowers became the subject for paintings and literature.

The agave's thick, fibrous foliage has needle-like spines at the tips and edges. The fibrous threads and sharp tip of the agave plant can be removed from its edge and used to make a needle. The needle-like end was used to tattoo. The fibrous leaves can be used to make paper, fabric, ropes, mats and blankets.

Sap will accumulate in the base if a large stalk is removed, or a hole is drilled at the base. Since ancient times, this sap has been used as a source of drinking water and nutrition by indigenous peoples. The agave sap, which is sold in grocery stores today as a sugar substitute, is actually the sap of agave plants. Pulque is a mildly intoxicating beverage made from sap that has been lightly fermented. The Aztecs used pulque in their religious rituals. In traditional Mexican medicine, agave sap is used to treat jaundice, inflammation, indigestion and dysentery. Studies have shown that it can be used to treat inflammation (Monterossas Briisson, 2013). It was used as an insecticide and disinfectant. The saponins are released by boiling chopped roots and leaves in water. All parts of a plant can be used.

Mescal and tequila are alcohol products made from agave. The heart of Agave Tequilana "Weber Blue" plant is removed and roasted to make tequila. The juice obtained is then fermented. This agave grows in large fields in Jalisco, Mexico near distilleries which produce tequila. The taste of mescal depends on the type of agave grown in a particular area. The mescal is made in small batches using ancient techniques, and the agaves are a variety. Like good French wines, the better mescals will be labeled according to the species of agave.

The A. The lechuguilla is the most common, smallest and most important succulent species in Texas. It's used to make rope. The plant's needle-like spines are stiff and point downward, posing a danger to hikers and livestock. It can also be a hazard for off-road vehicles. This plant's leaf pulp is rich in saponins, and can be used to make shampoo and soap. The plant is also used for "poisoning arrow tips, which are then thrown into the water in order to stun and capture fish" (Turner 2009). The species has a flower that is distinctive and blooms every 10-20 years.

The plant is also important for wildlife. The pollen is collected by bats to feed their young. (Herb Society of America 2023). Flowers and seeds are food for insects such as hummingbirds and butterflies.

Visit The Herb Society to learn more about agave. Visit The Society's Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

Medicinal Disclaimer: The Herb Society of America, Inc. does not recommend or advise the use of herbs as a medicine or for health purposes. This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of any specific medical or health treatment. Consult your health care provider prior to using herbal remedies.

Photo Credits: Agave lechuguilla flowers (public domain); Agave tequiliana field (Daniel Freedman); Foxtail agave flower inflorescences.

References

Herb Society of America Native Herb Conservation Committee 2024. The Herb Society of America’s Notable Native Herb of 2020 Accessed on 12/9/23. Available from https://www.herbsociety.org/explore/notable-native-herbsprofiles.html

Kow, Simon. 2018. Ave agave in early modern times! Accessed on 12/5/23. Available from https://ukings.ca/news/early-modern-times-ave-agave/

Monterossas-Brisson, Naveli et al. 2013. Catalasaponin-1 and other agave plants have anti-inflammatory properties. Molecules, 18(1), 8136-8146. National Library of Medicine. Accessed on 12/7/23. Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6269955/

Rosaluna. How many types of agave are there? Accessed 12/9/23.Available from https://mezcalrosaluna.com/article/types-of-agave/

Stewart, Amy. 2013. The plants that make the world's best drinks. Chapel Hill: NC.

Sydow, G. 1987. The first agave to be found in Europe. British Cactus & Succulent Journal 5(3): 76-78. Accessed on 12/5/23. Available from http://www.jstor.org/stable/42792478

Tull, Delena. 2013. Edible and useful plants in the Southwest: Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Austin, TX : University of Texas Press

Turner, Matt Warnock. 2009. Remarkable plants in Texas Austin, TX: University of Texas Press.

Maryann is an active member of The Herb Society of America’s Texas Thyme Unit, located in Huntsville. She is a Texas Native Plant Society Native Landscape Specialist and a Texas Native Plant Society Certified Texas Master Gardener. She is a Master Gardener and teaches herb training in Master Gardener Programs. She grows pines in East Texas' Piney Woods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

Why do some love coriander and others don't?

Some people hate coriander, while others love it. But why?

Coriander is an herb that grows in warm climates throughout the world. It is native to both North America and Europe.

The leaves of the plant are used in cooking and can also be found in condiments such as salad dressings and dips. When added to food, coriander provides a spicy flavor.

Many people love its taste because it adds a fresh flavor to dishes without overpowering them. Others dislike the smell and taste of coriander because they find it too strong.

But there is more to coriander than meets the eye. There are two types of coriander – sweet and hot. Sweet coriander is milder and sweeter tasting compared to hot coriander.

Sweet coriander is usually grown for its seeds, often called cilantro. This type of coriander is easy to grow and is very low maintenance.

Hot coriander is most commonly used in Indian cuisine. Hot coriander gives a rich flavor to curries and sauces, making it popular among Indians.

Some people say that hot coriander tastes better than sweet coriander. However, the opposite is true for those who prefer sweet coriander.

There are many reasons why people enjoy different varieties of coriander. For example, one person may love the taste of coriander, while another enjoys the aroma.

Whether you like sweet or hot coriander, you might be surprised to learn that you can buy both types of coriander online.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

Which herbs are healing herbs?

If you look for healing herbs, you won’t find them in the supermarket. There isn’t any place to buy them. There is no store selling them.

You haven’t been able to find healing herbs because they aren’t sold anywhere. They are grown right here in our backyard.

Healing herbs are plants that grow naturally in North America. Like many common household items, these herbs grow throughout the United States and Canada.

These herbs treat minor ailments such as colds, flu, sore throats, coughs, and headaches. Many of these herbs have been used for centuries to help heal wounds and promote overall health.

Of course, when we say “heal,” we mean more than simply treating an illness. We also refer to the ability of these herbs to restore balance and harmony within ourselves and the world around us.

For example, the chamomile herb helps relieve stress. This means that if you feel stressed out, you may benefit from taking chamomile tea. Chamomile tea has been shown to reduce anxiety and nervous tension.

In addition, chamomile tea has been proven effective in relieving insomnia.

Chamomile tea has many other benefits, including its ability to ease stomach aches and gas pains and even improve digestion.

Another popular healing herb is Echinacea. Echinacea is known for helping to fight infections and boosting the immune system.

Echinacea is commonly taken internally and externally to fight infection, prevent viral diseases, and boost immunity. It is safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.

Echinacea also helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation. You can take echinacea orally or topically (as an ointment).

This herb is available in both liquid and capsule form. Liquid echinacea is often mixed with honey and lemon juice. The mixture is then strained and consumed.

Capsules are usually made of freeze-dried plant material. They contain standardized amounts of active ingredients. To use capsules, swallow one or two a day.

The third type of herbal remedy is called tincture. Tinctures are alcoholic extracts of herbs. They are typically used to treat internal problems. Tinctures are generally diluted before being ingested.

Tinctures can be taken orally or applied topically. For oral consumption, dilute tinctures with water. Some people prefer to mix tinctures with food.

Tinctures are easy to prepare. Put about one tablespoon of dried herb into a bottle containing enough alcohol to cover the herb completely. Allow the mixture to sit for several weeks. Then strain and consume.

You may want to try some of these natural remedies to see which ones work best.

What spices assist in recovery?

The use of spices to aid in healing is an ancient practice dating back centuries. Many spices have been used for their medicinal properties, including ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Each of these spices has unique benefits that can help with various health issues.

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used to soothe an upset stomach or relieve nausea.

Cinnamon has been found to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agents. It is even believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in helping prevent diabetes.

Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also thought to increase circulation and metabolism, which can help the body heal more quickly.

Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is beneficial in treating various conditions, from arthritis and neurological disorders to cancer.

Garlic is packed with nutrients and has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, act as antibiotic, lower cholesterol levels, and even boost the immune system.

These spices are all-natural ways to help the body heal and improve overall health. They can all be easily incorporated into food or taken in supplement form for convenience. While spices alone won't cure any ailments, they can play an essential role in aiding healing.

In addition to spices, there are also other natural remedies for healing, such as herbs, essential oils, and homeopathy. Research has shown that many of these remedies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, consider incorporating some of these natural remedies into your health routine.

What plant helps with infection?

There are plants out there that help fight infections. Some even contain anti-bacterial properties. One of them is mint.

Mint has been used for centuries to treat respiratory infections such as cold symptoms and flu. Mint also supports digestion and relieves gas pains. You may find relief with peppermint tea if you have an upset stomach. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties, which make it effective against germs.

Peppermint tea contains menthol, beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients support healthy immune systems and provide energy to keep your body strong.

You can make peppermint tea at home by adding one teaspoon of dried mint leaves to boiling water. Let steep for five minutes and drink hot three times per day.

Or you can buy peppermint tea bags at any grocery store. Simply add two teaspoons of dried mint leaves to a cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink hot three times per day for best results.

What herbs should you take daily?

Depending on your health and wellness needs, many herbs can be taken daily to help improve your overall health.

Popular herbs for daily consumption include ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, holy basil, chamomile, lavender, peppermint, and cayenne pepper. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body resist stress and anxiety. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger has been shown to aid digestion and boost immunity. Holy basil may help with managing blood sugar levels, as well as providing a calming effect. Chamomile can promote relaxation, while lavender is used in aromatherapy for its calming properties. Peppermint can help aid digestion and reduce nausea, while cayenne pepper has antibacterial properties that may boost your immunity.

As always, you must consult your doctor before taking herbs daily to ensure they are safe for you and do not interact with any other medications or herbs you may be taking.

There is no shortage of information on what foods we should eat and how much exercise we should do. But when it comes to what supplements we should take, there is a dearth of knowledge.

This is because most of us aren’t sure which ones work or which are junk. So we go online and look up whatever we can find.

But often, these articles are written by companies trying to promote their products. Which means they're usually biased toward their product.

So instead of finding unbiased advice, we end up reading marketing hype.

This makes sense since marketers make more money selling stuff than doctors.

The medical industry isn’t even allowed to advertise directly to consumers anymore. The best way to learn about natural remedies is to read independent reviews.

This is where you'll find real users sharing their experiences with each supplement. These sites give you an honest opinion of whether or not a particular herb helps.

Users will often share their experience with a supplement after taking it. This gives you a good idea of its effectiveness and any side effects.

You can also check out forums dedicated to herbalism. Here you can ask questions and receive answers based on personal experience.

Of course, there are plenty of other ways to learn about herbs.

There are books, websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, and classes. All of them provide valuable information about natural remedies.

Statistics

• Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.
• The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.

External Links

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• Bouquet garni - Wikipedia

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• Antioxidant capacity of 26 spice extracts and characterization of their phenolic constituents - PubMed


• Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant - PMC

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• Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial


• Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB

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• Amazon.com: Starwest Botanicals Organic Bilberries Whole, 4 Ounces: Grocery & Gourmet Food

How To

How do I know if my herbs have been treated with pesticides?

If you see a pesticide label on your herbs, the plants were sprayed with chemicals before being sold to you.

These chemicals harm human health and could cause cancer or other serious illnesses.

Unfortunately, this practice has become common around the globe. Many countries allow farmers to spray their crops with pesticides without proper regulation.

In order not to harm themselves, consumers should always ask about the source of their produce. If it comes from a farmer near you, it’s safe to assume it was not treated with pesticides.

However, there are still ways to ensure that your herbs are free from harmful chemicals.

However, if you want to ensure that your herbs aren’t contaminated, you can purchase organic herbs directly from the farm.

This way, you won’t need to worry about the safety of your herbs. You can trust that they weren’t exposed to harmful chemicals.

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