native: tropical and subtropical regions, highly toxic plant, particularly its seeds, which contain the poison abrin, type 2 ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) that inhibits protein synthesis, leading to cell death. seeds are more poisonous than ricinus communis
parts of the plant and their uses:
products::
root: roots are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. they are also known to contain glycyrrhizin, which has antioxidant properties.
stem: stems are generally not used for specific products.
fruit: fruits are pods containing seeds, which are used for medicinal purposes but are highly toxic.
leave: leaves are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. they contain flavonoids and saponins.
bark: bark is used for its tannins and saponins, providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
flower: flowers are less commonly used, but they can be involved in traditional medicine practices.
uses::
plants/he young shoots and fruits: the fruits contain seeds that are used medicinally to strengthen the immune system and increase overall body tone but are highly toxic and should be handled with care.
plants/greens: leaves can be used in medicinal preparations (decoctions and infusions), treat various diseases, such as respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases
plants/nuts: seeds are used for traditional medicine treat toothaches and other ailments but are toxic.
plants/flowers: flowers have limited use in traditional medicine фы infusions and decoctions, which can help with skin diseases and urinary tract problems
plants/medicine: parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine for their potential therapeutic (anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant) properties, but extreme caution is advised due to toxicity
bark: relieve pain in joints and muscles, as well as to treat headaches and fevers
the roots: as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, as well as to improve digestion and eliminate toxins from the body
plants/fuel: not commonly used for fuel.
plants/fertilizer: not commonly used as fertilizer.
data::
sun requirements: prefers full sun to partial shade.
water requirements: requires moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
soil ph: prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5).
plant roles in permaculture guilds: abrus precatorius can be used as a medicinal plant in permaculture systems. it can be planted as a companion plant to support soil health and provide shade for smaller plants. however, caution is needed due to its toxicity.
height in meters: grows up to 3-5 meters.
spacing in meters: plants should be spaced 1-2 meters apart.
germination days: seeds typically germinate in 10-14 days.
strata: herbaceous layer.
days to maturity: approximately 90-120 days.
plant, harvest, pruning calendar in months:
plant: start seeds in early spring.
harvest: leaves and roots can be harvested in late summer to early fall.
pruning: prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged parts.
good neighbors: plants that benefit from partial shade, such as certain herbs and leafy greens.
bad neighbors: plants that require heavy nutrient competition or those sensitive to alkaloids.
chemical compounds
compound
part of the tree
amount
description
abrin
seeds
0.08-0.2%
highly toxic protein that inhibits protein synthesis and can be fatal if ingested.
abrus agglutinin
seeds
varies
a less toxic lectin compared to abrin, with hemagglutinating properties.
flavonoids
leaves, seeds
0.5-2%
include compounds like quercetin and myricetin, which have antioxidant properties.
tannins
leaves, bark
2-5%
astringent compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
alkaloids
roots, leaves
varies
nitrogen-containing compounds that can have medicinal properties, such as pain relief and antimicrobial activity.
saponins
leaves, roots
1-4%
compounds with detergent properties known for their health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering effects and immune-boosting properties.
glycyrrhizin
roots
0.2-0.5%
sweet-tasting compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
proteins
seeds
20-25%
essential proteins supporting various physiological functions.
lipids
seeds
10-15%
essential fatty acids vital for energy and physiological functions.
antioxidants
leaves, seeds, bark
1-3%
compounds offering antioxidant defense against oxidative stress.
anti-inflammatory agents
leaves, roots
1-2%
compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, utilized in traditional medicine.
antimicrobial agents
leaves, roots
1-2%
plant components effective in treating infections due to antimicrobial properties.
traditional medicine recipes using abrus precatorius
highly toxic, extreme caution and professional guidance are crucial
1. external paste for skin disorders
ingredients:
abrus precatorius seeds
water
instructions:
prepare seeds: take a few Abrus precatorius seeds and crush them to make a fine powder.
mix with Water: add a small amount of water to the powder to form a thick paste.
apply paste: apply the paste directly to the affected areas of the skin.
duration: leave it on for 20-30 minutes before washing off with lukewarm water.
uses:
traditionally used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin disorders.
caution: for external use only. do not ingest.
2. herbal oil for joint pain
ingredients:
abrus precatorius seeds
sesame oil
instructions:
crush seeds: crush acbrus precatorius seeds to make a fine powder.
mix with oil: add the powdered seeds to sesame oil.
heat mixture: heat the mixture gently on low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
strain oil: allow the oil to cool, then strain it to remove seed particles.
application: massage the strained oil onto the affected joints.
uses:
traditionally used to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
caution: for external use only. avoid using on broken skin or wounds.
3. traditional decoction for respiratory issues
ingredients:
abrus precatorius roots (a small piece)
water
honey (optional)
instructions:
boil roots: boil a small piece of abrus precatorius root in water (1-2 cups) for about 10-15 minutes.
strain decoction: strain the decoction to remove root particles.
add honey: optionally, add a teaspoon of honey for taste.
consume: drink the decoction in small sips.
uses:
traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions such as cough and asthma.
caution: due to its toxicity, only use under the guidance of a qualified herbalist. do not exceed the recommended amount.
4. hair growth tonic
ingredients:
abrus precatorius leaves
coconut oil
instructions:
extract juice: crush fresh abrus precatorius leaves to extract the juice.
mix with oil: mix the leaf juice with coconut oil.
apply to scalp: apply the mixture to the scalp and hair.
leave and wash: leave it on for 30 minutes before washing off with a mild shampoo.
uses:
traditionally used to promote hair growth and treat scalp conditions.
caution: ensure thorough washing to remove any residue.
safety precautions:
toxicity: abrus precatorius contains abrin, a highly toxic protein. ingestion of even a small amount can be fatal.
identification: proper identification of the plant is crucial to avoid accidental poisoning.
dosage: only use very small amounts and under professional supervision.
symptoms of poisoning: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and respiratory distress. seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.