Natural Healing Properties
The leaves of Buddleja globosa Hope (Buddlejaceae), known as “Matico” in Chile, are widely used in folk medicine due to their wound healing effects. The Matico leaves have been proven to exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects while also being a strong anti-oxidant.
Matico exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting harmful inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF). By limiting these inflammatory responses, Matico helps protect tissues from oxygen free radicals, thereby reducing cellular damage and supporting the early phases of wound healing. Since controlling inflammation is the first critical step in the healing process, this effect is especially important.
The phenylethanoids and flavonoids found in Matico leaves are primarily responsible for its antioxidant properties. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, protect cells involved in tissue repair, and promote an optimal environment for healing. Additionally, studies have shown that Matico can stimulate fibroblast growth, a key factor in collagen production and tissue regeneration, further supporting wound closure and repair.
Matico also demonstrates analgesic effects. Its pain-reducing properties are linked to its ability to inhibit inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandin E2, which are associated with increased inflammation and pain. By suppressing these mediators, Matico reduces inflammation and discomfort. Furthermore, research suggests that Matico may activate opioid receptors, contributing to its natural analgesic effects.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology 116 (2008) 263–269 . Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Buddleja globosa, Buddlejaceae. N. Backhouse, L. Rosales, C. Apablaza, L. Go ̈ıty, S. Erazo, R. Negrete, C. Theodoluz, J. Rodr ́ıguez, C. Delporte. 16 November 2007
Journal of Ethnopharmacology 119 (2008) 160–165. Antinociceptive Activity of Buddleja Globosa (matico) in Several Models of Pain. Nadine Backhouse, Carla Delporte, Cecia Apablaza, Mariela Farías, León Goïty, Sylvia Arrau, Rosa Negrete, Consuelo Castro, Hugo Miranda. 19 June 2008
Journal of Ethnopharmacology 77 (2001) 219–226. Effects of Buddleja Globosa Leaf and Its Constituents Relevant to Wound Healing. A.Y. Mensah, J. Sampson, P.J. Houghton, P.J. Hylands, J. Westbrook, M. Dunn, M.A. Hughes, G.W. Cherry. 26 June 2001
