Entada phaseoloides

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Botanical Information

• Family: Fabaceae
• Common Names: St. Thomas Bean, Sea Bean, Gogo Vine, Matchbox Bean
• Parts Used: Seeds, bark, stem, leaves

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Description

Entada phaseoloides is a large, fast-growing tropical liana found in Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Africa. It produces large, buoyant seeds that often drift across oceans, leading to its widespread dispersal. Traditionally, it has been valued in various indigenous healing systems for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and adaptogenic properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional Pacific and Southeast Asian medicine as a general tonic and adaptogen.
• Employed in folk medicine as a natural soap and hair cleanser due to its saponin content.
• Traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory remedy for arthritis, muscle pain, and wounds.
• Seeds were historically worn or carried as good luck charms and protective talismans.

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Constituents

• Saponins
• Triterpenoids
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids
• Tannins

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Actions

• Adaptogenic
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Emollient
• Expectorant
• Wound healing

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Medicinal Uses

1. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Traditionally used for joint pain, arthritis, and muscular aches.

2. Antimicrobial and Wound Healing:
Applied topically to wounds, sores, and fungal infections.

3. Respiratory Support:
Used in some traditions to relieve coughs and respiratory conditions.

4. Skin and Hair Care:
Employed as a natural soap and scalp cleanser to promote hair health.

5. General Tonic and Adaptogen:
Consumed in small doses to enhance stamina and resilience to stress.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of dried bark or leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed seeds or bark applied to wounds, skin irritations, or sore joints.

Soap and Hair Rinse:

• Seed or bark decoction used as a natural cleanser.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to limited safety data.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause irritation if consumed in large amounts.
• Allergic Reactions: Test before topical use to avoid potential irritation.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Pacific Island Medicine: Used as a cleansing herb and general tonic.
• Ayurveda: Considered cooling and detoxifying; balances Pitta and Kapha.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Used for inflammation, skin health, and detoxification.

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Combinations

• For Inflammation Relief: Combine with turmeric and boswellia.
• For Skin and Wound Healing: Combine with neem and calendula.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and licorice root.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Seeds, bark, and leaves are collected when mature and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Preliminary studies suggest Entada phaseoloides has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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St. Thomas Bean remains a versatile herb in traditional medicine, particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, skin-healing, and adaptogenic properties.