Description

Anamu is sometimes called "garlic weed," because the plant, and its roots, have a strong garlic odor.  The plant can be used as a fish poison because the seeds are poisonous.  It grows up to a meter in height and has very small green flowers.  It is extremely rich in biologically active compounds, the explanation for its many and varied uses over the years.

Uses and Cultivation

Anamu is commonly used in cities and villages in South and Central America, as well as the Caribbean and Africa, for an astonishing number of physical ills and ailments.  It has been used throughout history as a natural remedy to treat colds, coughs, influenza, respiratory and pulmonary infections, medical conditions both in humans and in animals including: venereal diseases, an antiseptic, arthritis, pain, cancer, womb inflammation, diuretic, decoagulant, snake bite, hysteria, paralysis, fever, rabies, to treat arrow poison in Brazil and as a bat and insect repellent and as an abortifacient, and for immune system support. 

Although relatively still unknown, people in the United States and around the world (in developed countries) are learning about its uses, and it is now available in capsules and tablets under several labels.  Those on blood-thinners need to be aware anamu is a natural blood-thinning agent. 

Anamu has a long history in herbal medicine in all of the tropical countries where it grows.  It contains a specific sulfur compound called dibenzyl trisulfide, a known cancer-fighting agent.  In Cuba, herbalists decoct the whole plant and use it to treat cancer and diabetes, and as an anti-inflammatory and abortive.  Anamu's traditional use as a remedy for arthritis and rheumatism has been validated by clinical research confirming its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

Throughout Latin America, the plant is used internally for a variety of illnesses.  In addition to its medicinal uses, it is also used for magic.  For example, it is used for ritual cleansing against witchcraft in ayahuasca ceremonies.