Quinine is a natural substance taken from the bark of a medicinal plant called Cinchona calisaya , also known by several names such as quina, quina-amarela, quineira, red chichona, Peruvian bark and Jesuit bark.
The trees of this medicinal plant originate from forests in South America, and its most used parts are its leaves and the bark of the root, branches and trunk, mainly to make teas with various properties such as febrifuges, antimalarials, digestives and healing.
Quinine is the active compound of quinine, a medicine used to treat malaria, however, only the use of the plant, drinks or supplements containing quinine are not recommended as a remedy for this disease, but only as a way to complement the treatment. Learn more about the remedy for malaria: Quinine.
In addition, small amounts of quinine are also found in tonic water sold in snack bars and bakeries, but have no therapeutic effects, being only an ingredient to contribute to the taste of tonic water.
What is it for
The quinine and medicinal properties of the Quina plant are useful for;
- Improve digestion; Help detoxify the liver and the body; Have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory action; Assist in the treatment of malaria; Fight fever; Reduce body pain; Fight hair loss and dandruff.
The main use of quinine is to fight malaria, however, it must be remembered that medicinal plants should not be used to fight infection in this case, unless recommended by the doctor. In addition, only the medicine purchased at the pharmacy will provide the appropriate dose to fight the infection.
How to use
The leaves and bark of the Quina medicinal plant are used mainly in the form of tea. To prepare Quina tea, mix 1 liter of water and 2 spoons of the plant's bark, and let it boil for 10 minutes. Then let it sit for 10 minutes and drink a maximum of 2 to 3 cups a day.
In addition, the quinine present in the Quina plant can be found in the form of capsules, however, it is important to note that this drug should only be used after medical clearance, as there are contraindications and to avoid the appearance of side effects.
Who should not use
Quinine is contraindicated for pregnant women, children, as well as patients with depression, blood clotting problems or liver disease.
In addition, the use of Quinine should be evaluated when the patient uses other medications, such as Cisapride, Heparin, Rifamycin or Carbamazepine.
Possible side effects
Side effects of quinine include increased heart rate, nausea, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, bleeding and liver problems.
