Guaco Bush: Jamaica’s Traditional Remedy for Colds, Congestion and More

If you’re from the countryside—or grew up around elders who believed in bush medicine—then chances are you’ve heard of Guaco bush. It’s not the most well-known herb outside of Jamaica, but here? It’s a household name when cold or fever strikes. Known for cutting mucus, breaking fevers, and easing breathing, Guaco bush, or Mikania micrantha, has held a strong place in traditional Jamaican healing for generations.

This climbing vine grows wild in the hills and backyards, wrapping itself around fences and trees, and often overlooked until it’s needed. But once that dry cough or tight chest sets in? Guaco is one of the first things the old folks send yuh to pick.

Traditional Jamaican Uses

Our ancestors didn’t have pharmacies on every corner—they had the land. And from the land came Guaco. Here’s how it’s traditionally used:

• Breaking colds and coughs: Guaco tea is known for loosening phlegm and helping to clear up congestion in the chest.


• Fever reduction: Often combined with other “cooling” herbs like cerasee or fever grass, it helps break high fevers naturally.


• Asthma and bronchial issues: The herb is sometimes boiled and inhaled, or sipped as tea, to help open up airways and ease shortness of breath.


• Blood cleansing: In some circles, Guaco is taken as part of a detox or blood purification routine.


• Bush Bath: It is popular for use in bush baths as well.

Some traditional healers also mix Guaco with garlic, honey, or ginger to create what they call a “syrup” for chronic cough or even whooping cough.

The Healing Properties of Guaco

Modern science is beginning to catch up to what we’ve long known. Guaco is rich in compounds like coumarins, which may help relax the bronchial tubes, making it easier to breathe. It also has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and mild antimicrobial properties—perfect for supporting the respiratory system when it’s under stress.

How to Use Guaco Bush

Traditionally, Guaco is brewed into a strong tea. A handful of fresh or dried leaves is boiled in water, sometimes with a bit of lime peel or garlic for extra potency. It’s then sipped slowly, or in some cases, used as a steam inhalation for sinus and bronchial relief.

If yuh can’t get the fresh plant, don’t worry. Our grounded Guaco herb offers a convenient way to enjoy the same benefits. Here’s how you can use it:

• Tea: Steep ½ teaspoon of the ground herb in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Strain and drink 1–2 times a day, especially during cold or flu season.


• Steam: Add a teaspoon to hot water and carefully inhale the vapors (with your head covered) for sinus relief.


• Blend with honey: Mix a pinch of the powder with warm honey and lime for a natural cough soother.

Guaco is strong, so moderation is key. It’s typically used for short periods when symptoms are present—not as an everyday tonic. And like most bush, always make sure it’s properly identified and prepared.

So if you’re building up your Jamaican herbal arsenal—or just want a trusted remedy to ease congestion naturally—Guaco bush is definitely one to keep on hand. We proudly offer it in grounded form, grown and prepared right here in Jamaica.

Explore Guaco and our other traditional Jamaican herbs here

Last updated: June 3, 2025. Share this with someone who needs to clear out the chest the real Jamaican way.