Botanical Overview
Achira (Canna indica) belongs to the Cannaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Cannaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is native to the Americas and naturalized elsewhere. The edible rhizomes are a source of starch.
Geographic Distribution
Achira has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and others.
Traditional Uses
Achira has been traditionally used for urinary tract health, pain and inflammation, and fever management, among other applications.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Pain and inflammation.
- Inflammation
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Fever management.
- Fever
Febrifuge preparations are typically administered as hot teas to induce perspiration, which helps the body regulate temperature. The patient is kept warm and encouraged to rest while the herb promotes sweating.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 15 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities