Hoja Santa (Piper auritum) is an aromatic herb with a large, heart-shaped, velvety leaf which grows in the tropics of Latin America. The name Hoja Santa means “sacred leaf.” Fresh Hoja santa leaves are sometimes used to wrap and flavor artisanal cheeses and to wrap tamales, meats, and fish for steaming or baking. It contains an essential oil comprised of safrole, a natural compound that was used to flavor root beer. It is rich in vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, phosphorus and iron.
