Queñoa Bark
Polylepis incana
About Queñoa Bark
Queñoa Bark (Polylepis incana) is a herb used in the Andean & Incan Medicine tradition to help with Wound Healing, Fever, Respiratory Issues, and Skin Health. The bark is the part traditionally used, used both internally and topically.
Botanical background
Polylepis incana is a species of plant in the family Rosaceae. It is found in Ecuador, Peru, and possibly Colombia. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Decoction
- Add 1–2 tsp of dried Queñoa Bark to 2 cups of cold water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm.
Tincture
- Pack dried Queñoa Bark into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Queñoa Bark into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Topical / Poultice
- Mash fresh Queñoa Bark or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.
Infused Oil
- Fill a jar with dried Queñoa Bark.
- Pour over a carrier oil until submerged.
- Leave for 4–6 weeks, then strain.
- Use topically or as a salve base.
Steam Inhalation
- Add 2–3 tbsp of Queñoa Bark to a bowl of just-boiled water.
- Drape a towel over your head and inhale steam for 5–10 minutes.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of Queñoa Bark in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Queñoa Bark in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Queñoa Bark itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Insufficient DataNo specific pregnancy safety research is documented for this herb in our references. This doesn't mean it's unsafe — it means it hasn't been well studied. Treat as unstudied and avoid unless a midwife or doctor familiar with your pregnancy advises otherwise.
Breastfeeding
Insufficient DataNo specific breastfeeding safety research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a lactation consultant, midwife, or doctor before use.
Children
Insufficient DataNo specific pediatric safety/dosage research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a pediatrician or pediatric herbalist before giving to a child.
Contraindications
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
No specific drug or herb interactions are documented for Queñoa Bark in our references. This doesn’t mean none exist — always check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining any new herb with prescription medication.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Andes Mountains — Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile
Climate
High-altitude tropical
Habitat
Andean highlands (altiplano), cloud forests, and valley farmland of the Andes
🌿 To see Queñoa Bark growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Queñoa Bark, look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.