Carqueja
- The Economic Botanist
- 6 hours ago
- 7 min read
Scientific name: Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC.
Family: Asteraceae
Often called “carqueja” in South America, Baccharis trimera is a shrubby medicinal plant renowned for its bitter leaves and traditional use in herbal remedies. Native to the highlands and subtropical regions of South America, this plant has been valued for centuries for digestive support, liver protection, and metabolic health. In this Plant Compendium entry, we explore its history, botanical characteristics, cultivation, harvesting, medicinal applications, and safety considerations.
History of Carqueja
Origins and Traditional Use
Carqueja is native to the Andean highlands, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Indigenous peoples and traditional healers have long used the plant for digestive, hepatic, and metabolic disorders. Its intensely bitter leaves earned it a prominent role in herbal pharmacopoeias for treating dyspepsia, stomach cramps, and liver ailments.
Spread and Recognition
During colonial times, European settlers learned of carqueja from local communities. The plant became widely incorporated into folk medicine and, eventually, modern phytotherapy. Today, it is cultivated and harvested commercially for teas, tinctures, and herbal supplements across South America.
Botanical Description
A resilient South American subshrub, Baccharis trimera displays the hallmark traits of the Asteraceae family—woody base, winged stems, and tiny composite flowers—adapted to thrive in dry, open landscapes while producing potent medicinal compounds.
Root: The root system is fibrous and moderately deep, adapted to well-drained and often nutrient-poor soils. It consists of a woody taproot with numerous lateral roots that help the plant withstand seasonal droughts common in its native South American grasslands. The roots are typically pale brown and slightly aromatic when fresh, containing secondary metabolites that contribute to the plant’s medicinal activity.
Stem: Baccharis trimera is a perennial subshrub that can reach 0.5 – 1 m in height, though some individuals in optimal conditions may grow taller. Its stems are erect, angular, and distinctly winged, with the wings formed by longitudinal extensions of the stem tissue. The stems are green to yellow-green, photosynthetic, and glabrous (smooth) or sparsely pubescent near young nodes. With age, the base becomes woody and brownish.
Leaves: Leaves are either very small or absent, often represented by minute, scale-like structures at the nodes. When present, they are alternate, sessile, linear to lanceolate, and 1–5 mm long, with entire margins and a simple venation pattern. Their reduction reflects the plant’s adaptation to xeric (dry) environments, as photosynthesis is largely carried out by the winged stems (cladodes).
Flowers: Inflorescences are terminal or axillary capitula (flower heads), typical of the Asteraceae family. Each capitulum measures 3–5 mm in diameter, surrounded by involucral bracts arranged in 3–4 series. The heads are unisexual and dioecious, meaning male and female flowers occur on separate plants.
Male (staminate) flowers: Numerous, with tubular corollas and five stamens united by their anthers, forming a central tube.
Female (pistillate) flowers: Fewer per head, with a slender corolla and a bifid stigma emerging conspicuously from the bracts. Flowers are typically pale yellow to cream-white and bloom mainly from late spring to early summer, attracting small pollinators.
Fruits: The fruit is a cypsela (a dry, single-seeded achene typical of the Asteraceae), narrow, oblong, and slightly ribbed, measuring about 1–2 mm in length. The surface is smooth or faintly pubescent and transitions from green to light brown as it matures.
Seeds: Each cypsela contains a single seed, attached to a pappus of fine, silky, whitish hairs that facilitate wind dispersal (anemochory). The pappus is composed of numerous capillary bristles, slightly unequal in length, forming a soft tuft at the apex. Seeds are minute, oblong, and brownish, with a smooth coat and high viability under dry storage. Germination is typically epigeal and occurs readily in light, well-aerated soils under warm temperatures.
What the difference between Baccharis trimera and Baccharis genistelloides?
Because both plants are commonly called “carqueja,” visual identification is the most reliable way to distinguish between Baccharis genistelloides and Baccharis trimera. Baccharis genistelloides has broad, green, winged stems that appear flattened and ribbon-like, often branching in a sculptural, coral-like form. The “wings” are actually modified stem extensions called cladodes, which carry out photosynthesis since the leaves are reduced. its leaves are minute or almost absent, appearing only at new shoot tips. It has a more decorative, structured form, often used as a small ornamental shrub in herbal gardens. The flowers more visibly at the ends of its winged stems.
This species of Baccharis is found in mountainous or highland regions, often in well-drained soils and open, sunny slopes while B. trimera is more widespread in grasslands and lowlands, tolerating a broader range of soils.
Quick Tip: If the plant’s stems are broadly winged and decorative, you’re likely looking at Baccharis genistelloides. If the stems are angular, narrow, and sharp-edged, it’s probably Baccharis trimera.
Growing Instructions
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; high light promotes denser foliage and stronger phytochemical content.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with moderate fertility. Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0).
Temperature: Adapted to subtropical and temperate highland climates; tolerates mild frost but grows best in 15–25 °C (59–77 °F).
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established but young plants require regular irrigation. Avoid waterlogging.
Spacing: Plant 50–100 cm apart to allow for branching and airflow.
Propagation: Mainly by seeds, which germinate in 2–3 weeks, or semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or early summer.
Life Cycle: Carqueja is a hardy perennial shrub that can thrive in poor soils and dry conditions, returning year after year with minimal maintenance.
Germination: Seeds typically sprout within 10–20 days when kept in moist soil and warm conditions. Ideal temperatures range between 18–25 °C (64–77 °F).
Vegetative Growth: In the first year, carqueja focuses on producing slender stems and small, bitter leaves. Leaf and stem growth continues throughout the growing season, particularly with regular pruning to encourage bushier development.
Flowering: Mature plants produce small yellow flowers, usually from late spring to mid-summer. Flowers are often clustered at the tips of stems and attract bees and other pollinators.
Fruit Set: After pollination, carqueja produces tiny seeds. These can be collected for propagation or allowed to disperse naturally, enabling the plant to self-seed in favorable conditions.
End of Season: During colder months, growth slows, and older stems may become woody. The plant remains evergreen in mild climates, and tender new shoots emerge when temperatures rise again, continuing the cycle.
Harvesting and Foraging
Harvesting:
Leaves and young shoots are harvested during flowering for maximum medicinal potency.
Collected branches should be dried in shaded, ventilated areas to preserve bioactive compounds.
Foraging:
Found in open fields, scrublands, and highland slopes.
Identification is critical—avoid Baccharis species look-alikes with unknown medicinal properties.
Plant Companions
Ecological Role:
Can be interplanted with other shrubs or herbs for medicinal gardens.
Provides habitat for pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Companion Considerations:
Avoid overly competitive species that may overshadow this shrub.
Benefits from mycorrhizal associations that enhance nutrient uptake.
Common Pests and Diseases
Pests:
Aphids
Leaf miners
Caterpillars
Diseases:
Fungal leaf spots
Root rot under poorly drained conditions
Management:
Regular pruning, good airflow, and organic pest management maintain plant health.
Shopping Tips
Forms Available:
Dried leaves for infusions (teas)
Tinctures and extracts
Capsules or standardized herbal supplements
What to Look For:
Authentic Baccharis trimera (avoid generic “carqueja” mixes)
Fresh aroma, vibrant leaf color, and no mold
Certificates of analysis for standardized extracts if purchasing commercially
Storage
Dried leaves: Store in airtight containers, away from light and moisture
Tinctures: Keep in dark glass bottles at room temperature or cooler
Capsules: Follow product expiration and storage guidelines
Culinary Uses
Carqueja is primarily valued for its medicinal properties, but it can also be used in the kitchen for its distinctive bitter flavor. Its culinary use is less common than its use as a tea, but it adds an interesting twist to certain dishes.
1. Fresh Use in Salads, Stir-Fries, and Marinades
Flavor profile: Intensely bitter and aromatic.
Usage: Fresh leaves and small stems can be finely chopped and added to salads, stir-fries, or used as a marinade ingredient.
Pairing: To balance the bitterness, combine carqueja with milder or sweeter ingredients, such as carrots, bell peppers, citrus, or mild greens.
Tip: Use in small quantities initially to avoid overpowering the dish.
2. Tea (Infusion)
Preparation: Both fresh and dried carqueja leaves and small stems can be used. The dried form is more practical for long-term storage.
Method:
Collect leaves and small stems preferably in the early morning for maximum potency.
Rinse briefly, if fresh.
Boil water and steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaves (or 2–3 teaspoons of fresh leaves) per cup for 5–10 minutes.
Benefits: In addition to its bitter, slightly earthy taste, the tea delivers the plant’s digestive and hepatoprotective properties.
Considerations and Precautions
Moderation: Due to its strong bitter principles and medicinal effects, carqueja should be consumed in moderation.
Avoidance: Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women, or individuals with known allergies to Asteraceae family plants.
Taste adaptation: Beginners can start with tea blends or small amounts in dishes to adapt to its characteristic bitterness.
Health Benefits
Carqueja is primarily a digestive, hepatic, and metabolic tonic. Its bitterness stimulates digestive secretions, aiding in dyspepsia, bloating, and mild constipation.
Carqueja's leaves are rich in bitter flavonoids (e.g., luteolin, apigenin), terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Essential oils contribute to its aroma and medicinal properties. Key bioactive components include:
Flavonoids: luteolin, quercetin, hispidulin
Triterpenes: baccharin, genistelloidesin
Phenolic acids: caffeic and chlorogenic acids
Bitter principles: responsible for digestive-stimulating effects
Digestive Health:
Bitter flavonoids and terpenoids stimulate bile secretion, improve fat digestion, and reduce bloating.
Liver Protection:
Exhibits hepatoprotective effects in experimental studies; may aid in detoxification and reduce oxidative stress in hepatic tissue.
Metabolic Support:
Traditionally used to support lipid and glucose metabolism; some studies suggest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Antimicrobial & Anti-inflammatory:
Essential oils and phenolic compounds contribute to mild antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity.
Clinical Evidence:
Most evidence is based on traditional use and preclinical studies; human clinical trials are limited but promising.
Toxicity and Safety
General Safety:
Considered safe in traditional doses for adults; bitter taste may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Contraindications:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Safety not established; avoid medicinal use.
Allergies: Rare but possible in individuals sensitive to Asteraceae family plants.
Drug Interactions:
May enhance bile flow and interact with medications affecting liver metabolism; consult a healthcare provider if on liver-active drugs.
Environmental Impact
Positive Aspects:
Native plant supporting pollinators and local biodiversity
Low water requirements and soil adaptability make it suitable for sustainable cultivation
Challenges:
Overharvesting wild populations can threaten local populations
Cultivation requires careful propagation to maintain genetic diversity and medicinal quality
As an Invasive Species:
Although valued for its medicinal and ecological properties, Baccharis trimera can behave as a persistent invasive plant in agricultural landscapes. It commonly invades pastures, orchards, and annual crop fields, particularly in regions with flat to gently undulating terrain. The species is often found thriving in abandoned or degraded pastures, where it quickly colonizes exposed soil and competes with desirable forage species. Its tough, winged stems and deep root system allow it to tolerate grazing, drought, and low fertility, giving it a competitive advantage in disturbed soils.
Crops affected include: cotton, rice, sugarcane, maize, pasture and pasture maintenance areas, soybean, and wheat. Once established, it can reduce pasture productivity and interfere with crop management, requiring integrated weed control strategies—such as mechanical removal, selective herbicides, and improved pasture rotation—to maintain balance between its ecological presence and agricultural sustainability.