By Stefano Silvestri
There is a plant in our forests that, when squeezed, emanates a very strong smell: Ajillo Zorrillo, which in South America is called Anamu'. The scientific term is Petiveria alliacea, in honor of the English botanist Petiver and for its garlic aroma.
It is widely used throughout tropical America for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties, all used internally as an aqueous extract. It is also of great help for the liver, respiratory problems and parasites.
To prepare the extract, add a handful of leaves to a couple of liters of boiling water, turn off and let sit for 20 minutes, then drink twice a day.
For cultivation, choose a humid and shady place and it will reproduce itself.
A warning: it is a powerful herb, so do not use for more than a week at a time and avoid during pregnancy.
Oropopo is the reserve where the medicinal plants presented in this section grow. Stefano Silvestri acquired these lands to dedicate them to conservation due to their contiguity with the Cabo Blanco Absolute Reserve and also has species of medicinal plants that he uses to make various remedies. Stefano teaches herbalism courses and donates the profits to Somos Congos.
The name of the reserve is given by the Oropopo owl (Spectacled owl), famous for its spectacle-wearing appearance.
English 
Español