Contrayerva: Uses, Dosage and Safety

Contrayerva (also spelled contrayerba) is a bitter herb used traditionally in Latin America for digestive complaints, fever and parasitic infections. People make tea, tinctures, or take capsules. If you’re curious about trying it, here’s practical, no-nonsense advice on what it does, how to use it, and when to avoid it.

What is contrayerva and what does it help with?

Contrayerva comes from several related plants in the Simaroubaceae family. Folk use includes easing upset stomach, reducing fever, helping clear intestinal parasites, and supporting liver function. Modern clinical evidence is limited: some lab studies show antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity, but good human trials are scarce. Treat it as a traditional remedy, not a proven cure.

How to take contrayerva

Tea is the most common form. Use about 1–3 grams of dried root or bark per cup; steep 10–15 minutes and drink up to two cups a day. Tinctures vary, so follow the label—common dosing is 1–2 mL two or three times daily. Capsules usually list the extract amount; stick to the manufacturer’s instructions. Start with the lowest recommended dose and stop if you notice bad effects.

Safety and who should avoid it: Avoid contrayerva if you are pregnant or breastfeeding—there’s not enough safety data. Don’t give it to young children without a doctor’s okay. People on blood thinners, drugs for diabetes, or medicines that affect liver enzymes should check with a clinician before using it. If you have a chronic illness or take multiple medications, ask your healthcare provider.

Possible side effects: Common mild side effects include stomach upset, nausea, or mild headache. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. If you get rash, swelling, breathing issues, or severe stomach pain, stop using contrayerva and seek medical care.

Quality and buying tips: Buy from reputable herbal suppliers or pharmacies that test their products. Look for standardized extracts or brands that provide a certificate of analysis. If buying online, read reviews and check return policies. Avoid products that promise quick cures for serious infections.

When to see a doctor: If you suspect a serious parasitic infection, high fever, severe abdominal pain, or persistent symptoms, see a doctor rather than relying only on herbs. Contrayerva can help mild digestive complaints, but it shouldn’t replace prescribed antiparasitic drugs when those are needed.

Related topics on this site: If you’re researching natural or drug treatments for parasitic infections, see our article about Gabon’s national campaign to treat child worm infections and other parasite-focused posts. For general advice on buying medicines online, check related guides on this site.

How to prepare contrayerva tea safely: use 1–3 grams of dried root per cup, pour boiling water, steep 10–15 minutes, strain and drink warm. If the taste is too bitter, add a little honey or lemon, but avoid masking strong side effects. Do not simmer the root for hours — long boiling can concentrate unwanted compounds. Store dried root in an airtight container away from light. Use contrayerva for short periods (days to weeks) rather than as a daily supplement. Discuss combining it with antiparasitic drugs with your doctor.