Alstonia (Alstonia spp.)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Apocynaceae
• Common Names: Dita Tree, Devil Tree, Australian Fever Bark
• Parts Used: Bark, latex, leaves

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Description

Alstonia is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, including Asia, Australia, and Africa. Known for its bitter-tasting bark, it has been traditionally used in various medicinal systems for treating fevers, infections, and digestive disorders.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine to treat malaria and fever.
• Employed as a digestive tonic to relieve diarrhea, dysentery, and intestinal parasites.
• Used topically for wound healing and to relieve skin infections.

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Constituents

• Alkaloids (echitamine, alstonine)
• Tannins
• Saponins
• Flavonoids
• Iridoids

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Actions

• Antimalarial
• Antimicrobial
• Astringent
• Antidiarrheal
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antipyretic (reduces fever)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Antimalarial and Fever Relief:
Alstonia bark is commonly used to treat fevers, particularly those associated with malaria, due to its antipyretic and antimalarial properties.

2. Gastrointestinal Health:
Its astringent and antimicrobial effects help alleviate diarrhea, dysentery, and intestinal infections.

3. Antimicrobial and Wound Healing:
The latex and bark are applied externally to treat wounds, skin ulcers, and fungal infections.

4. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used to relieve coughs, bronchitis, and respiratory infections.

5. Immune Support:
Alstonia has been used as a general immune booster due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

• Simmer 1-2 tsp of dried bark in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

• Apply mashed fresh leaves or bark directly to wounds or inflamed skin.

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves steeped in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Toxicity: Alstonia contains alkaloids that can be toxic in large doses; use under professional guidance.
• Allergic Reactions: Possible in sensitive individuals; discontinue if irritation occurs.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Ayurvedic: Balances pitta and kapha doshas due to its cooling and astringent nature.
• Traditional African Medicine: Used as a cooling and detoxifying agent to clear heat and infections.

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Combinations

• For Malaria and Fever: Combine with cinchona bark and holy basil.
• For Digestive Support: Combine with ginger and blackberry root.
• For Wound Healing: Combine with neem and calendula.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Bark and leaves are typically harvested during the growing season when the plant’s medicinal properties are most concentrated.
• Drying: Dry in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried bark and leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

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Modern Research

Studies have demonstrated Alstonia’s antimicrobial, antimalarial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Ongoing research is investigating its potential as an alternative remedy for fever and infectious diseases.

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Alstonia remains a key herb in traditional and modern medicine, valued for its role in managing fevers, infections, and digestive disorders.