The name chilcuague is derived from chilmecatl, a compound word of Nahuatl origin, made up of chilli or chili which means spicy or hot, and mecatl which means cord; chilmecatl refers to the threadlike and pungent-tasting roots that characterize H. longipes (Martínez, 1967)
It is known for its properties as an antibiotic, antifungal, analgesic, antiseptic, anesthetic, sialogogue, healing agent, and insecticide; antiarthritic, vasodilator, antinociceptive, insecticide, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic, among others.
Chewing it has a sialogogue effect, meaning it stimulates saliva production, which generates several effects in the body. Among these are those produced by the digestive enzymes present in saliva (amylase and lipase), its buffering effect that helps to neutralize the pH of the stomach and oral cavity instantly, controlling reflux, acidity and gastritis, and saliva also promotes the secretion of endorphins.
When ingested, its active compounds continue to work throughout the digestive tract. It has traditionally been used to neutralize excess acidity , promote a balanced gut microbiome , and relieve occasional discomfort (excessive mucus, bloating). Its age-old use links it to internal balance and the maintenance of a fluid environment in the gastrointestinal system.
The plant contains an alkaloid called affinin , also known as spilanthol. It is responsible for the electric and tingling sensation in the mouth and skin. In the arteries, this alkaloid may activate the nitric oxide pathway and/or interact with TRPV1 channels to elicit a response in arterial smooth muscle tone. The vasodilatory effect of this compound involves the participation of gas transmitters, prostacyclin, and TRP channels. It is capable of triggering the release of GABA, which has shown analgesic activity similar to ketorolac.
Antimutagenic potential (emerging evidence)
“Antimutagenic” refers to the ability to help prevent mutations in DNA . Preliminary studies suggest that, in Heliopsis longipes , and particularly affinin , it could decrease the frequency of mutations induced by environmental toxins or stress . This line of research is still under development and does not imply established clinical efficacy.
- Polyphenols help neutralize free radicals and support immune resilience .
- Flavonoids have been studied for their cardiometabolic , anti-allergic , and neuroprotective support, and may help modulate inflammation and blood flow .
- Tannins have natural astringent properties: they help to tighten tissues and reduce the microbial load , supporting oral health , gum integrity and certain minor skin discomforts .
The levels of these compounds vary depending on origin, altitude, climate and season , which is why a wild and ethically harvested chilcuague usually offers a richer phytochemical profile .
Most of the information we have about this plant is thanks to Dr. Jorge Molina Torres.
Another investigation conducted by CINVESTAV-IPN found biocidal activity against malaria, a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Plasmodium, transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. P. falcifarum is the species that causes severe malaria. Another study by Dr. Jorge Molina Torres addresses the fungicidal activity of affinin and the crude root extract of Heliopsis longipes against two fungal species (Screrotium rolfsii and S. cepivorum).
That is why research and analysis have helped to replace synthetic fungicides and pesticides with natural products that do not harm nature. These plant-derived products will not pollute the water or damage Mother Earth, and they have no side effects on nature since they can be metabolized by one organism or another, unlike chemical fungicides.