Sugar Creek Trading Company
Ajo Sacha Powder
Ajo Sacha Powder
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Mansoa alliaceae
ORDERS OF 250G OR MORE MAY REQUIRE UP TO 4 WEEKS FOR PROCESSING AND SHIPPING.
Main actions: Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, antirheumatic,
antimicrobial.
Main uses: for arthritis, rheumatism, and general inflammation; for coughs,
colds, flu, pneumonia and upper respiratory conditions; as a general pain-
reliever (headaches, muscles, joints, body aches); as an antimicrobial, for
viral and bacterial infections, fungi and candida; for head lice.
Cautions: None reported.
Ajos sacha is well used and respected by most of the indigenous Indian tribes of the Amazon and almost all parts of the plant are used; the leaves, vine bark, and root. Most consider the plant to be “magical” or “spiritual” and capable of driving away evil spirits or used for good luck. The leaves, tied in bunches, can often be found in local huts and houses for this purpose, or, the leaves are burned as smudge over people or in houses to “cleanse the spirit” or to bring good luck. The Shipibo-Conibo Indians give a tea of bark to dogs to make them good hunters and also drink the tea themselves to bring good luck when hunting or fishing. Oftentimes, ajos sacha can be found as an adjunctive ingredient in the hallucinogenic potion the shamans use in spiritual ceremonies called ayahuasca. It is added to the brew to drive away evil spirits, or to purify the blood and body to make the ayahuasca more readily accepted.
Ajos sacha is also used as a medicine by the Indian tribes in the Amazon. The Shipibo-Conibo prepare the bark into a poultice to use on bumps, swellings and inflammatory conditions of the skin. They prepare the bark in an infusion or the leaves in a decoction for rheumatism, arthritis, colds, uterine disorders, inflammation and epilepsy. The root is prepared in a cane alcohol tincture as an overall regenerative whole-body tonic. The Ese’eja Indians prepare a leaf tea for colds, while the Amuesha use a leaf tea to aid fertility. The Wayapi put the leaves in a bath to treat feverish conditions. The Creoles in Guyana use the leaves in baths for cramps and fatigue and the Tapajos in Brazil use it in baths for body aches and the flu.
Ajos sacha is also quite well known and popular in the cities and towns in the Amazon and has a long history of use in herbal medicine systems in Peru and Brazil. It is considered analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antirheumatic and widely used for arthritis, rheumatism, body aches and pain, and muscle aches, injuries and pain. The bark is typically prepared in a tincture or a decoction for these types of conditions, but the leaves are used similarly for the same conditions as well. In addition, the leaves of ajos sacha are also a common remedy for colds, flu, pneumonia, coughs, fever, and headaches. The leaves are generally prepared as an infusion or decoction. The root is also prepared in a tincture or a cold maceration (soaking it in cold water for 2-3 days) and taken as a general whole-body tonic.
This information is gathered directly from:
https://rain-tree.com/mansoa.htm
MANSOA ALLIACEA (GARLIC VINE)
The Aromatic Cleanser—A South American Vine for Immunity, Respiratory Health, and Spiritual Purification
BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION
Scientific Name: Mansoa alliacea (Lam.) A.H. Gentry
Common Names: Garlic Vine, Ajo Sacha, False Garlic, Bejuco de Ajo
Family: Bignoniaceae
Mansoa alliacea is a perennial, woody climbing vine reaching 2–5 meters in length. It bears opposite, compound leaves with two leaflets and a terminal tendril. The leaves release a pungent garlic-like aroma when crushed, due to its sulfur compounds. The trumpet-shaped flowers range from lavender to violet, growing in clusters, and its fruits are elongated, flat capsules.
Native to the Amazon rainforest and tropical regions of South America, it thrives in humid, shaded forest edges, riverbanks, and secondary growth areas.
Adaptations include its sulfur-based chemistry for pest resistance and its strong climbing habit for competing in dense forests.
CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL USE
In Amazonian ethnomedicine, ajo sacha is highly regarded for cleansing the blood, warding off infections, and supporting immune resilience. It is also burned or infused as a spiritual purifier to remove negative energies and attract good luck.
Indigenous tribes of Peru, Brazil, and Colombia use it in decoctions for treating colds, arthritis, and digestive sluggishness.
It is often included in ayahuasca preparation rituals as a plant teacher, known for “clearing” emotional and spiritual blockages.
In folk medicine, it is considered a natural substitute for garlic in cooking and remedies, especially when garlic bulbs are unavailable.
KEY BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS AND BENEFITS
| Compound | Role in Plant | Human Benefits | Regional Variation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organosulfur Compounds | Defense and aroma | Antimicrobial, antifungal, immune-boosting | Higher in fresh leaves |
| Flavonoids | Pigments and antioxidants | Anti-inflammatory, vascular support | Increased in sun-grown plants |
| Alkaloids | Plant defense | Analgesic, anti-arthritic effects | Elevated in mature vines |
| Saponins | Detergent-like compounds | Cleansing, expectorant properties | Found in both leaves and bark |
The synergy of sulfur compounds and flavonoids underpins its traditional role as an antimicrobial and detoxifying plant.
HOW IT WORKS IN THE BODY
Sulfur compounds mimic the bioactivity of garlic (Allium species), inhibiting microbial growth and stimulating immune responses.
Flavonoids reduce oxidative stress and support vascular and joint health.
Its mild saponins help to loosen mucus, supporting respiratory function during coughs or colds.
Traditionally, it is viewed as both a physical and energetic cleanser.
DOSE GUIDELINES
| Preparation Type | Typical Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Infusion (leaves) | 1–2 grams per cup, up to 2 times daily | Immune support, mild colds |
| Decoction (bark/root) | 10–20 grams simmered 15 minutes | Arthritis, joint pain, systemic detox |
| Tincture (1:5) | 2–3 mL up to 3 times daily | Antimicrobial, respiratory health |
PREPARATION AND USES
Traditionally, fresh leaves are crushed and infused for immune-boosting teas or applied as poultices for joint pain.
Used as a smoke or smudge for spiritual cleansing ceremonies.
Leaves are also cooked as a seasoning herb, imparting a garlic-like flavor to soups and stews.
Modern herbalists combine it with echinacea, cat’s claw, or turmeric for immune and anti-inflammatory blends.
OPTIMAL CONTEXT FOR USE
Particularly useful for seasonal immune support, respiratory infections, and arthritis-related inflammation.
Valued as a spiritual herb for energy cleansing and emotional reset.
Works well when combined with adaptogens or antimicrobial herbs for overall wellness.
SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICAL HARVESTING
Mansoa alliacea is common in the Amazon and easily cultivated in tropical gardens.
Sustainable harvesting involves pruning young vines and leaves without damaging the rootstock.
As demand grows, local cultivation projects in Peru and Brazil are promoting conservation and fair-trade practices.
SAFETY AND CAUTIONS
Generally considered safe when used in culinary or medicinal doses.
Excessive use may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to sulfur compounds.
Not recommended for individuals with garlic or onion allergies.
Avoid during pregnancy unless recommended by a qualified practitioner due to limited safety data.
REFERENCES
Duke, J.A., & Vasquez, R. (1994). Amazonian Ethnobotanical Dictionary. CRC Press.
Rutter, R. (1990). Catalogo de Plantas Utiles de la Amazonia Peruana.
Van Andel, T. (2000). Non-Timber Forest Products of the North-West District of Guyana.
Balick, M. (1990). Studies on ethnobotany and bioactive compounds of Amazonian plants.
FINAL NOTE
Mansoa alliacea bridges the gap between food and medicine—a vine whose garlic-scented leaves cleanse both body and spirit. Revered by Amazonian healers, it continues to serve as a versatile ally for immunity, inflammation, and energetic balance.
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