Rosary Pea (Abrus precatorius)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Fabaceae
• Common Names: Rosary Pea, Jequirity, Crab’s Eye, Indian Licorice
• Parts Used: Roots, leaves, seeds (used with extreme caution)

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Description

Rosary pea is a climbing plant native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa, often recognized for its striking red and black seeds. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine, the plant offers a range of benefits, although the seeds are highly toxic if ingested improperly.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Ayurvedic medicine as a remedy for fevers, inflammation, and respiratory conditions.
• Employed in external treatments for skin conditions and ulcers.
• Traditionally, rosary pea seeds were used in jewelry and prayer beads, but ingestion of the seeds can be fatal.

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Constituents

• Abrin (toxic protein)
• Alkaloids
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Glycyrrhizin (in roots, similar to licorice)

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Actions

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antimicrobial
• Expectorant
• Analgesic (pain-relieving)
• Diuretic
• Aphrodisiac (in traditional uses)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Support:
Rosary pea root is used in traditional medicine to relieve coughs, asthma, and bronchitis by acting as an expectorant.

2. Anti-inflammatory Relief:
The leaves and roots help reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis and muscle pain.

3. Skin Conditions:
Externally applied, the leaves and seeds (in non-toxic preparations) can help treat skin ulcers, eczema, and wounds.

4. Eye Health:
In traditional medicine, decoctions of the leaves were used as eye washes to treat inflammation and infections.

5. Aphrodisiac and Fertility Support:
Rosary pea is traditionally used in Ayurvedic treatments to enhance libido and support male fertility.

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Preparation and Dosage

Caution: Due to the high toxicity of abrin in the seeds, internal use should only be under professional supervision.

Infusion (Tea) from Roots or Leaves:

• 1-2 tsp of dried roots or leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 1-2 ml of tincture (from roots or leaves) taken 1-2 times daily under guidance.

Poultice:

• Apply mashed leaves directly to affected skin for ulcers or wounds.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Highly Toxic Seeds: The seeds contain abrin, which is extremely poisonous. Ingestion of even a small amount can be fatal.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Supervised Use: Internal use of any part of this plant should be under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Ayurvedic: Balances vata and kapha but can aggravate pitta in excess due to its potency.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine: Used for its warming, expectorant, and detoxifying effects.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Health: Combine with holy basil and licorice root.
• For Inflammation: Combine with turmeric and ginger.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with neem and aloe vera.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and roots can be harvested throughout the growing season, while seeds should be handled with extreme caution.
• Drying: Dry leaves and roots in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried materials in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

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Modern Research

Research has confirmed the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the plant’s roots and leaves. Ongoing studies are investigating its role in respiratory health and its potential toxicity mechanisms.

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Rosary pea remains a plant of medicinal interest in traditional systems, but extreme caution is required due to its toxic nature. Proper preparation and guidance are essential for safe use.