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Tonka Bean |
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Tonka Bean
TONKA BEAN
(Dipteryx odoratas)
History and Folklore
Tonka beans are the fruit of a South-American rain forest tree that belongs to the legume family. In South America these great canopy trees are a valued hardwood species whose timber is used in construction. In the rain forest various parts of the tree are also used medicinally, but internationally only the bean has ever attracted any attention. The crinkly black beans don't look like much, but they have a unique sweet and musky scent that is both dark and seductive. Their aroma is mostly due to a substance called coumarin, tiny white crystals that form a thin crust over the wrinkled surface of the bean. Coumarins are common in the Clover family. They also lend Woodruff and Sweetgrass their characteristic sweet aroma. Tonka bean extract has been used as a flavouring agent in numerous foods, cosmetics and tobacco. Although coumarin forms the basis of blood thinning drugs such as Warfarin, it is toxic when ingested in large quantities. It is a suspected carcinogen and has been banned in many countries. However, Tonka bean extract is still sometimes used as a chemical base material for making cheap Vanilla substitutes.
Medicinal Uses:
Tonka bean is no longer used medicinally in Western herbalism, though in the rainforest it is used to make an oil for ear aches and the seeds are fermented in rum and used to treat snakebites, cuts, rheumatism, bruises etc. They are also said to have anti-spasmodic properties and have been used to treat cough and asthma.
CAUTION
Internal use not recommended. May be carcinogenic and hepatotoxic. Do not use in conjunction with other blood thinning drugs.
Magical Uses:
Tonka Beans are used in sachets and amulets to attract love or money. They can be used in incense blends for love or sex magic. They intensify the focus of one's magical intent and have a great drawing power - better be careful what you wish for though, you might get it!
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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