Ratanhia

This genus is the only one in the family Krameriaceae; it contains 15-25 species of semi-parasitic trees, shrubs, and perennials, occurring desert areas of N and S America. Rhatany root is collected mainly from K. lappacea in Peru, where it is collected from the wild. In other areas, such as Colorado and Nevada deserts, the Mohave, and Baja California, K. argentea, K. cistoidea, K. grayi (mezquitillo, casahui), and K. parvifolia are exploited. Krameria lappacea was introduced to cultivation during the 19th century, but is no longer seen, presumably because it proved too difficult. Aqueous extracts of rhatany are red, like those from other tannin-rich herbs, such as Agrimonia eupatoria (See, agrimony) and Potentilla erecta (See, tormentil). Rhatany extracts contain 10-20 percent condensed tannins, and also a red pigment, phlobaphene (rhatany red). They were widely used to improve the astringency, color, and richness of red wine, and their source was a closely guarded secret among Portuguese and Spanish merchants during colonial times.

Low-growing shrub with a wide-spreading, red-black rootstock, orange-red within, and procumbent stems, bearing stalkless, ovate, hairy leaves, about 1-2cm (3/8-¾in) long. Red flowers with shiny, pointed petals appear in autumn, followed by rounded, spiny fruits, 6mm (¼in) across.


Common Name:
Ratanhia
Other Names:
Rhatany, Mapato
Botanical Name:
Krameria lappacea syn. K. triandra
Genus:
Krameria
Family:
Krameriaceae
Native Location:
Peru, W slopes of the Andes at 915-2785m (3000-9000ft)
Cultivation:
Well-drained, sandy or stony soil in sun.
Propagation:
This species does not appear to be in cultivation.
Harvest:
Roots are lifted from wild plants and dried for use in tinctures and dry extracts.
Height:
50-90cm (20-36in)
Width:
60cm-1.2m (2-4ft)
Hardiness:
Min. 5-10°C (41-50°F)
Parts Used:
Roots, Various pars of the entire plant, frequently differing by country and culture.
Chemical Constituents:
  • Calcium Oxalate
  • Gum
  • Lignin
  • N-Methyltyrosine
  • Saccharine
  • Starch
  • Tannins
    		•
    Properties:
    A strongly astringent herb that checks bleeding, controls discharges and diarrhea, and encourages healing.
    Known Effects:
  • Anti-Inflammatory
  • Helps treat canker sores
    		•
    Possible Additional Effects:
  • May treat sore throat
  • May treat hemorrhoids
  • May treat chronic bowel inflammations
  • May treat diarrhea
  • Potential mouthwash
    		•
    Medicinal Uses:
    Internally for diarrhea, hemorrhage, and heavy menstruation. Externally for vaginal discharge, hemorrhoids, chilblains, wounds, gingivitis, and pharyngitis.
    Warnings and Precautions:
    		 Don't take if you:
  • Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or plan pregnancy in the near future
  • Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, reflux esophagitis, ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, or diverticulitis

    • Consult your doctor if you:
  • Take this herbs for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks (There may be safer, more effective treatments.)
  • Take any medicinal drugs or herbs, including laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs

    • Pregnancy:
    Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.
    Breastfeeding:
    Dangers outweigh any benefits. Don't use.
    Infants and Children:
    Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.
    Others:
    None are expected if you are beyond childhood, under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dose.
    Storage:
  • Store in cool, dry area away from direct light, but don't freeze.
  • Store safely away from children.
  • Don't store in bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and moisture may change the action of the herb.

    • Safe Dosage:
    Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose for your condition.
    Adverse Reactions, Side Effects, or Overdose Symptoms:
    Signs and Symptoms What to Do
    Diarrhea Discontinue. Call doctor immediately.
    Kidney damage characterized by blood in urine, decreased urine flow, swelling of hands and feet Seek emergency treatment.
    Nausea or Vomiting Discontinue. Call doctor immediately.
    Economic Uses:
    Added to port wine to raise astringency, and also to oral hygiene products.
    Bibliography:
    Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. Pp 249-250
    Vitamins, Herbs, Minerals & Supplements The Complete Guide by H. Winter Griffith, MD Copyright©1998 Fisher Books. pp. 427-428.