The Agave , which has also been called the 'century plant', the 'Century Aloe' and the 'American Aloe', obtained it's name from the Greek language--- the word 'agavos' meaning illustrious, an apt description for some magnificent and noble plants. The word is found in a number of instances in classical mythology.

Throughout the history of the New World the agave has been closely associated with mankind in a multitude of ways, both with the original inhabitants of Mesoamerica and subsequently with invaders and conquerors from Europe.
In the pre conquest era the agave was well established as an important feature of everyday life and religion and played an prominent role in the human sacrifice which especially the Aztecs practiced to an extent which horrified even Cortez and his soldiers.

The native Mexican Indians had a complex religion and a formidable array of gods, most of whom appeared to be very bloodthirsty and who needed to be sustained and honored with sacrifices, usually human. They were represented on earth by priests who were at the top of a very rigid class structure and consequently had many privileges, such as control over land and food distribution, jobs, taxes, and supervision over the allocation and consumption of agave juice.

Quetzacoatl, the serpent god, who represented the arts and morality, was the only deity apparently opposed to human sacrifice and paid for his views by being driven out into exile. It was said that his return would coincide with the fall of the Aztec empire.

Maguey Graphic URL
Maguey - Agave Link

Maguey Properties favored by The Aztec's

The Maguey is used in the treatment of Syphilis,
Accelerates the rapid healing of wounds,
Cures Gonorrhea
and is also a strong laxative.

Aztec Method of Use

To Treat Syphilis:  Use the fluid extract of the Maguey root, take 10 drops of this extract in the morning in a little water then 10 more drops in the evening. The following day take 20 drops in the morning and 20 in the evening. Do this each day until you reach 200 drops a day once in the morning and again in the evening, divided in half or 100 drops in the morning and 100 at night.
To Accelerate the Healing of Wounds:  Use the Maguey balsam which you obtain from wringing the Maguey leaves, then boil the balsam with a little bit of sugar until thick, then soak handkerchiefs in this fluid and cover the wounds with them.

Only Counter Below

Free Counter

Free Web Counter