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Jamaican Dogwood Bark |
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Jamaican Dogwood Bark
JAMAICAN DOGWOOD BK
Piscidia erythrina
History and Folklore
Jamaican Dogwood is a tropical tree of the pea family. In its native homelands it is also known as "Fish poison tree", due to the fact that the bark and leaves contain a substance that is toxic to fish and amphibians, but not to man. It works by inhibiting the fish's ability to absorb oxygen from the water, which quickly kills them, thus making them an easy catch. The bark is also rich in tannins and has been used for tanning leather. For medicinal purposed the bark is stripped off in vertical pieces and is dried as quills. It develops a peculiar, opium like odour. Jamaican Dogwood is an extremely potent herbal remedy and must be used with due respect - large doses can be toxic. Even small doses sometimes do not produce the desired results, but instead cause convulsions, nausea and other unpleasant side effects.
Medicinal Uses:
Jamaican Dogwood is considered analgesic and indicated in cases where there is intense pain, especially nervous pain. Thus it can be used for nervous headaches, migraines, neuralgia, toothache as well as menstrual cramps and ovarian pain. It is very helpful in cases where intense nerve pain prevents a patient from falling asleep, but should not be used a general sedative as there are other herbs that are just as effective, but have less toxic potential. Jamaican Dogwood is strictly indicated for pain control. In Mayan medicine Jamaican Dogwood is indicated for the treatment of asthma, fever and ringworm.
CAUTION
Do not use during pregnancy. Use in moderation and monitor closely. Large doses can produce unwanted side effects (see above).
Magical Uses:
Magical uses are not known for this herb.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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