Occurrence
The species occurs in the West-Indies and the north of South America. In Venezuela, it is frequent in the hot regions of the west and in the thornbush of the littoral and on the island of Margarita.

Ethnobotanical and general use

Economical utilization
Besoms made of the branches are applied to expel fleas.

Medical use
To cure fainting, the aromatic smell of the leaves is inhaled. Against spasms, the fresh leaves are directly placed on the affected region. Against ear aches, the leaves are put on the ear. Small pieces of the plant in alcohol are rubbed on the skin to cure varices. Parts of the plant ingested are laxative. Chemical contents Essential oil in the leaves (see GUPTA 1995).

Toxicity
The plant is toxic to cattle.

South American medicinal plants : botany, remedial properties, and general use / I. Roth, H. Lindorf. Berlin ; New York : Springer, c2002. -- p. 492.