- wiki:: abrus_precatorius.pdf
abrus precatorius review
- 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.