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Condurango (Marsdenia condurango syn. Gonolobus condurango)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asclepiadaceae
  • Common Names: Condurango, Eagle Vine
  • Parts Used: Bark of the vine

Description

Marsdenia condurango is a climbing vine native to the Andean regions of South America, particularly Ecuador and Colombia. Traditionally used for digestive health and appetite stimulation, condurango has also been studied for its potential anticancer properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional South American medicine as a digestive tonic and stomach remedy.
  • Employed in Western herbalism for improving appetite and relieving gastric discomfort.
  • Historically used for its potential anti-tumor properties and immune support.
  • Applied in homeopathy for gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders.

Constituents

  • Condurangin (bitter glycoside)
  • Flavonoids
  • Alkaloids
  • Tannins
  • Saponins

Actions

  • Bitter tonic
  • Digestive stimulant
  • Carminative
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Potential cytotoxic activity

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Condurango is widely used to relieve indigestion, bloating, and poor appetite by stimulating gastric secretions.

2. Stomach Ulcers and Gastritis:
Traditionally used to soothe inflammation in the stomach lining and assist in ulcer healing.

3. Appetite Stimulation:
Acts as a bitter tonic to encourage appetite, particularly in convalescents and individuals with low digestive function.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Used to alleviate mild inflammatory conditions of the digestive and respiratory tracts.

5. Potential Anticancer Properties:
Some research suggests condurango may have cytotoxic effects on certain cancer cells, though more studies are needed.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried bark per cup of water. Simmer for 15-20 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Powdered Extract:

  • 250-500 mg per dose, taken up to twice daily.

Homeopathic Preparation:

  • Typically used in diluted potencies for digestive complaints.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
  • Gastric Sensitivity: May cause irritation in individuals with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Use with caution, as it may stimulate immune activity.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional South American Herbalism: Used as a digestive and immune tonic.
  • Western Herbalism: Considered a bitter stimulant and appetite enhancer.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Pitta, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Support: Combine with gentian and dandelion root.
  • For Appetite Stimulation: Combine with fenugreek and ginger.
  • For Stomach Ulcer Relief: Combine with licorice root and marshmallow root.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Bark is collected year-round, preferably from mature vines.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried bark in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Marsdenia condurango’s digestive, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

Condurango remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestive health, appetite stimulation, and potential immune support.