Scientifically known as Peumus boldus, boldo is an evergreen tree native to the central region of Chile. It belongs to the Monimiaceae family, a small family of flowering plants primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere. The tree is characterized by its aromatic leaves, which have been used in traditional South American medicine for centuries. Boldo is well-adapted to the Mediterranean-like climate of central Chile, growing in areas with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall.
The genus Peumus is monotypic, meaning Peumus boldus is the only species within this genus. The name 'boldus' is derived from the Spanish 'boldo', which comes from the Mapudungun (the language of the indigenous Mapuche people) word 'foyu' or 'boldu'. In traditional medicine, particularly in Chile and other parts of South America, boldo has been valued for its potential to support liver function, aid digestion, and provide overall wellness benefits. Its leaves are typically dried and used to prepare herbal teas or medicinal preparations.
Boldine is an aporphine alkaloid found in many angiosperms, particularly the more “primitive” families. Despite its wide distribution, it is seldom abundant and the only commercial source is the bark of the Chilean boldo tree ( Peumus boldus Mol.). Due to the medicinal use of boldo leaf infusions in Chile and later in numerous other countries, an early chemical study led to the discovery of boldine followed by the study of its pharmacological properties. In line with its traditional use as an aid to digestion, it was first shown to increase bile flow, and later on to have strong antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties and to antagonize adrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. More recently a plethora of novel pharmacological actions has been revealed, initiating several highly promising research avenues with high potential for clinical development.\
The CAS number for Peumus boldus leaf extract (Boldo leaf extract) is 84649-96-7, used in cosmetics and herbal remedies, derived from Peumus boldus leaves, known for antioxidants like boldine, and listed under various names like Boldo leaf extract and Slimactive. It's recognized in cosmetic databases (CosIng) and has an EINECS number of 283-476-4.
Key CAS Information:
- CAS Number: 84649-96-7
- Common Names: Peumus boldus leaf extract, Boldo leaf extract, Boldea boldus leaf extract, Slimactive.
- Source: Extract from the leaves of Peumus boldus (Boldo tree).
- EINECS: 283-476-4.
- CosIng Ref No: 40592.
Uses & Properties:
- Cosmetics: Used for skin flora regulation, reducing oiliness, and pore size.
- Herbal Remedy: Used for digestive issues, constipation, and as an allergen in testing.
- Chemicals: Contains flavonoids, and alkaloids (like boldine, coclaurine, etc.) with antioxidant properties.
Peumus boldus (Boldo) extract functions primarily as a digestive aid, stimulating bile flow (
choleretic), reducing gas, and relieving stomach discomfort, due to its
antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory compounds like
boldine, while also acting as a mild
diuretic; it's traditionally used for liver, gallbladder, and mild GI issues, though more clinical data is needed, and it's contraindicated in severe liver/bile duct issues due to potential toxicity.
Primary Functions
- Digestive Support: Promotes bile secretion (choleretic effect) for better digestion, reduces gas (anti-flatulent), and relieves cramps.
- Liver & Gallbladder: Traditionally used for liver complaints, gallstones (use with caution/avoid if stones present), and stimulating bile flow.
- Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds, especially boldine, that fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect cells, with potential benefits for kidneys and brain.
- Diuretic: Increases urine output, helping with kidney issues and fluid retention.
Traditional & Investigated Uses
- Gastrointestinal: Helps with indigestion, bloating, and mild intestinal issues.
- Urinary: Fights bacteria in urine, treats cystitis, and supports kidney health.
- Other: Mild sedative, treats skin blemishes, used for joint pain (rheumatism).
Key Active Compounds
- Boldine: The main alkaloid, responsible for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-protective (e.g., liver, brain) effects, but has low bioavailability.
- Flavonoids : Contribute to antioxidant activity.
Important Considerations
- Toxicity: Contains ascaridole, which can be toxic; avoid high doses or prolonged use, especially with liver disease or gallstones.
- Evidence: Much research is in vitro or animal-based; clinical human data is limited for many uses.
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