Botanical atlas
Guaco
Mikania glomerata
Long before it reached pharmacy shelves, guaco was a household remedy passed down through generations in Brazil and neighboring countries, where the vine grows wild along forest margins. Rural and Indigenous communities gathered its glossy leaves and simmered them into syrups and teas to quiet a stubborn cough or ease a tight chest through the damp season. That old kitchen remedy never really went out of style. Today, guaco leaf remains one of the most recognized ingredients on Brazilian pharmacy shelves, where bottled cough syrups still carry its name.
In tradition.
Long before it reached pharmacy shelves, guaco was a household remedy passed down through generations in Brazil and neighboring countries, where the vine grows wild along forest margins. Rural and Indigenous communities gathered its glossy leaves and simmered them into syrups and teas to quiet a stubborn cough or ease a tight chest through the damp season. That old kitchen remedy never really went out of style. Today, guaco leaf remains one of the most recognized ingredients on Brazilian pharmacy shelves, where bottled cough syrups still carry its name.
Traditional preparations.
A warming infusion traditionally sipped at the first sign of a cough or scratchy throat.
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried guaco leaf (or 2 to 3 fresh leaves, torn) in 250 ml of just-boiled water, covered, for 10 minutes. Strain and sip warm, up to twice a day.
The old household version of the cough syrups still sold in Brazilian pharmacies today.
Traditionally, a small handful of fresh leaves is gently simmered in a little water until the liquid reduces slightly, then strained and stirred with honey while still warm. Taken by the spoonful as needed.
Safety.
Guaco leaves contain natural coumarins that can thin the blood, so avoid it with anticoagulant medication and stop well before surgery. It is not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for young children.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies guaco from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
View on HerbLensAsk HerbSense how guaco is traditionally used and what to know before trying anything at home.
Ask about GuacoHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.