This plant has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action that helps in the treatment of gastric and skin diseases.
Grass bugre (Casearia sylvestris), also called guaçatonga, is a medicinal plant appreciated in Brazil. Mainly present in the savannah regions and in tropical areas, it is widely used in traditional medicine to assist in the treatment of various pathologies, such as digestive disorders, inflammation and infections.
Below, learn more about these and other benefits of buckthorn berry!
1. Natural pain reliever
Bugre herb is traditionally used to relieve headaches, muscle and rheumatic pain. This analgesic effect is attributed to the flavonoids and triterpenes present in its composition, which have anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties. In addition, these compounds improve blood circulation, which helps reduce pain.
Among the best known rheumatic diseases there is arthrosiswhich causes cartilage to deteriorate. “It affects millions of people worldwide, and because it is the most common disease and mostly affects older people, there is a stigma that rheumatism is an old people’s disease, but that’s not true,” says rheumatologist Ingrid Moss.
2. Helps in the treatment of gastric diseases
Its bioactive compounds help protect the gastric mucosa by promoting the secretion of mucus that lines the stomach and reducing the impact of gastric acids. In addition, its anti-inflammatory action alleviates the symptoms of gastritis.
“There are several teas that can help relieve stomach pain thanks to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is important to note that each person can react differently to natural remedies and, if the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a doctor,” explains Ariane Braz AC Brasil, nutritionist at the Edmundo Vasconcelos Hospital.
3. Anti-inflammatory action
The bioactives present in plant have anti-inflammatory action. Quercetin and other antioxidants help inhibit the production of chemicals involved in the inflammatory response, helping protect the body’s tissues from damage and promoting recovery.
4. Antioxidant
Bugre herb has a variety of antioxidant compounds essential for neutralizing free radicals in the body, helping to protect cells against oxidative damage. By neutralizing these unstable molecules that can damage DNA and other cellular structures, flavonoids contribute to the preservation of cellular integrity, reducing the risk of degenerative diseases and delaying premature aging.
“The cells in our body are constantly subjected to toxic damage due to the formation of free radicals, which arise from reactions that occur in the cell membrane and are responsible for the onset of various diseases and degenerative processes in the human body,” explains cardiologist Bruno Ganem.
5. Helps with healing
Bugre herb is traditionally used to accelerate the healing of wounds and ulcers due to its regenerative properties. Tannins help contract tissues, forming a protective barrier on the wound that prevents the entry of microorganisms and accelerates healing. In addition, flavonoids stimulate the production of collagen, essential for tissue regeneration and repair. It helps as a complement in the treatment of skin diseases, such as herpes and mycosis, promoting a more effective recovery.

6. Natural diuretic
The herb Bugre also acts as a diuretic natural thanks to the saponins present in its composition, which promote the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys. This helps reduce the accumulation of fluids in the tissues, alleviating swelling and water retention.
“For some, water retention occurs after a large meal or drink, while for others it’s just an inconvenient part of daily life. Dysregulated lifestyle habits, such as lack of sleep and insufficient physical activity, may also be related,” says nutritionist Dr. Marcella Garcez.
7. Antimicrobial action
The antimicrobial effects of grass buckthorn are attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, tannins and saponins, which act directly on microorganisms. The alkaloids present in the plant compromise the integrity of the cell membranes of pathogens, hindering their survival and proliferation.
Using it safely
Bugre herb can be used through:
- Tea: boil 1 liter of water. Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of dried aromatic herb leaves. Leave to infuse for about 10-15 minutes. Filter and then drink.
- Compresses: use 3 tablespoons of dry leaves in 500 ml of water and boil for 10 minutes. Strain, soak a clean cloth in the mixture and apply it on the affected area. Leave for 15 minutes.
Despite the advantages, the use of medicinal herbs It should be performed with caution and, preferably, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially to avoid possible interactions with drugs or unwanted side effects.
“It is important to keep in mind that each person is unique and individual reactions may vary. For most herbs, moderate consumption is recommended. It is important not to overdo the quantity, as some substances in plants can have major side effects. quantity,” says Ariane Braz of AC Brasil.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.