Jamaican Dogwood (Piscidia erythrina)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Fabaceae
• Common Names: Jamaican Dogwood, Fish Poison Tree, West Indian Dogwood
• Parts Used: Bark, Root Bark

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Description

Piscidia erythrina, commonly known as Jamaican Dogwood, is a tropical tree native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. It has been traditionally used for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and sleep support. Historically, the bark was used by indigenous peoples as a sedative and to stun fish, giving rise to its common name, Fish Poison Tree.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by indigenous Caribbean cultures for pain relief, insomnia, and anxiety.
• Traditionally employed as an antispasmodic for muscle cramps and tension.
• Used in folk medicine to support menstrual health and ease dysmenorrhea.
• Historically utilized as a mild sedative and nervine to promote sleep.

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Constituents

• Isoflavonoids
• Rotenoids (Piscidin, Jamaicine)
• Alkaloids
• Tannins
• Saponins

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Actions

• Analgesic (Pain-relieving)
• Antispasmodic
• Sedative
• Nervine
• Anti-inflammatory
• Mild Hypnotic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Pain Relief:
Traditionally used to relieve headaches, nerve pain, and musculoskeletal discomfort.

2. Sleep Aid and Nervous System Support:
Acts as a sedative, helping with insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety.

3. Menstrual and Uterine Health:
Used for painful menstruation, cramps, and muscle tension.

4. Muscle Relaxation:
Eases muscle spasms, stiffness, and tension.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Used to relieve inflammatory pain, such as arthritis and joint discomfort.

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Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: Piscidia erythrina is a potent herb and should be used with caution under professional guidance.

Decoction (Tea from Bark):

• 1 tsp of dried bark per cup of water. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed bark applied externally for pain relief and inflammation.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to sedative properties.
• Sedation Effects: May cause drowsiness; avoid operating machinery after use.
• Drug Interactions: May interact with sedatives, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants.
• Toxicity Risk: High doses can be toxic; always use under supervision.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and relaxing; used for nervous system support and pain relief.
• Traditional Caribbean Medicine: Applied as an analgesic and sedative.
• Traditional South American Herbalism: Used as a muscle relaxant and fever remedy.

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Combinations

• For Pain Relief: Combine with willow bark and meadowsweet.
• For Sleep and Relaxation: Combine with valerian and passionflower.
• For Menstrual Cramp Relief: Combine with cramp bark and ginger.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Bark is sustainably harvested from mature trees and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried bark and tinctures in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Piscidia erythrina’s sedative, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Jamaican Dogwood remains a powerful herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for pain relief, relaxation, and muscle support. Due to its potency, it should be used under professional supervision.