Anamu — Petiveria alliacea
Guinea Hen Weed · Garlic Weed · Hierba de Guinea
A staple of Caribbean and Latin American folk medicine, Anamu has been growing in Cuban patios and solares for generations — brewed as tea, added to cleansing baths, and kept close for its protective reputation. Now you can grow this resilient perennial at home.
"In Cuba, no garden is complete without it. We call it the healer's weed."
Plant details
- Height: Up to 3 ft
- Flowers: Small white spikes
- Light: Bright indirect
- Scent: Garlic-like
- Zones: 9–11 / Indoor friendly
Traditional uses
Across Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, Anamu has long been used to support immune health, ease inflammation and pain, fight infection, and in spiritual and cleansing rituals rooted in Afro-Cuban traditions. Leaves, roots, and stems are prepared as teas, baths, and decoctions.
For educational and horticultural use only. Consult a healthcare provider before using medicinally.