IPORURU Alchornea castaneifolia        
Iporuru, or Hiporuru, is a shrubby Amazonian tree and important medicinal. Used in Peruvian dietas as a "teacher plant" and occasionally added to ayahuasca brews. Well known in Peru for its antiinflammatory and antiarthritic action and being utilized in North America by athletes, yogis and herbalists for its ability to support muscle and joint structure, aiding flexibility of movement and range of motion. An effective topical pain reliever when rubbed into injuries. In parts of Peru it is hailed as a useful aphrodisiac, increasing female fertility and a remedying male impotency. Other folk uses include treating colds, coughs, diarrhea and diabetes. Taken regularly it produces an interesting state of heightened awareness. Laboratory research has shown Iporuru to have antitumor, antifungal and antiviral actions. Analysis shows saponins, phenols, steroids, flavonols, flavones, tannins, xanthones and alkaloids including alchorneine also found in Alan (Alchornea floribunda) of western Africa. 1–2 grams (about 1/2 teaspoon) is taken 2–3 times a day, in capsules or stirred into liquids. Iporuru can only be harvested in the Amazon’s dry season, since it spends most of the rainy season underwater. For most uses 1-2 grams (about 1/2 teaspoon) is taken 2-3 times a day brewed as a tea, or taken in capsules.. 

Wildcrafted Peruvian Iporuru leaf, fine tea cut