The hoja santa belongs to the Piper auritum (genus) forming an important part in the family Piperaceae. It grows as a bush approximately 6 to 7 feet in height and 8” to 10” in length by 6” to 7” in width. The hoja santa is described as having large leaves in a heart shape form and its texture is velvet-like. The leaf is known to have multiple medicinal purposes and is used to treat various discomforts. The hoja santa is recognized for having a unique strong aroma.

The hoja santa also referred to as “acuyo” in Spanish has a particular strong taste. The Acuyo has been compared to having a similar flavor to anise, cilantro, and eucalyptus. The hoja santa has a strong, somewhat sweet and anise seed-flavor. As its medicinal purposes have been recognized its popularity has grown over the centuries and people usually acquire one for their homes, since it does not require a lot of care and grows easily.

Serving Ideas

The leaf is widely used in Mexican cuisine to enhance flavors in salsas and tamales. The hoja santa is ideal to wrap tamales, as well as in chicken and seafood dishes due to its strong taste. This exclusive leaf is used to treat physical aches, those related to the stomach functioning as pain killers. If you want to have a delicious unique dish that also benefits your body take advantage of this gem by enjoying its marvelous taste.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

Throughout time the hoja santa has been thoroughly studied and the Mexican Pharmaceutical Society has recognized it as being a stimulant, painkiller, and antispasmodic. In an old Nahuatl manuscript which contains all medicinal herbs used by these indigenous, the leaf is described as a very important ingredient.

Geography/History

The leaf is native to Mexico growing in subtropical southern regions of this country as San Luis Potosi, Morelos, Puebla, Oaxaca, and Tabasco. It is known to have been used since the Pre-Hispanic era about 12,000 years ago. In Mexico, our ancestors used this specific leaf to perfume chocolate due to its unique aroma and flavor.

Seasons/Availability

The hoja santa is available all year round in Mexico.