Matico — the herb of women's strength and healing
Matico in women's healing practice
In Chile there is a wonderful plant I often recommend to those I support — matico (Piper aduncum). It is an aromatic herb that Andean women have used for centuries to heal, recover, and support the body — especially after birth and in moments when the body needs gentle care.
- Helps you recover gently after childbirth.
- Heals stitches, cracks, and inflammation.
- Eases menstrual pain.
- Used for thrush and other intimate imbalances.
- Supports breathing during colds.
- Harmonises digestion.
How to use it
- Leaf infusion: 1 tsp dried herb per cup of boiling water, steep 10–15 minutes. Can be drunk, used as a rinse, or for washing.
- Steam baths for the intimate area: very helpful after birth or with inflammation. Matico infusion soothes tissues, reduces swelling, and heals.
- Washes and compresses: for itching, irritation, micro-cracks — or simply as a ritual of returning to your body, especially postpartum.
Where to find matico in Chile
- Herb stalls at markets (La Vega, Bio Bio, ferias).
- Australian Herbolaria stores (@australisherbolaria) in Ñuñoa, Providencia, and Peñalolén.
- Online via MercadoLibre or Instagram (search #matico and #hierbaschilenas).
I always believe in regaining strength through simple, natural rituals. Matico is one of those herbs you return to again and again — especially when body and soul need softness and warmth.