The Huasca Clove (Tynanthus panurensis) is a woody climbing vine (liana) with trumpet-shaped flowers from the Bignoniaceae family, known for its aromatic leaves and stems that release a clove-like scent when crushed
This species is native to the Amazon Basin, particularly found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The vine’s strongly aromatic bark is used to flavor beverages and infusions, especially as a clove or cinnamon substitute in local preparations.
It also serves as a natural insect repellent and is sometimes included in traditional bath mixes for its invigorating aroma. The essential oil and extracts are being explored for potential use in perfumery and natural health products.
In traditional Amazonian medicine, Tynanthus panurensis—often called cipó cravo (clove vine)—is used as a stimulant, aphrod isiac, and remedy for fatigue and rheumatism. Decoctions of its bark or leaves are employed to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and colds, while the aromatic properties are used to invigorate the body and mind. It is also used as a tonic for improving sexual vitality.
Through scientific investigation, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, antimicrobial, and antinociceptive activities have been exhibited. Researchers have noted the presence of alkaloids, coumarins, antraquinones, and saponins. Specifically, the presence of eugenol and its derivatives (explaining the clove-like scent), along with verbascoside, isoverbascoside, leucosceptoside, katchimoside and tinantina were found.
In a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food of its bioactive properties, the Huasca Clove exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in an animal model, and in in vitro studies free radical-scavenging antioxidant and reducing microsomal lipid peroxidation, uric acid synthesis, and tumor necrosis factor-α production.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.