Vine. The endosperm inside a spongy seed coat is cut into thin slices. A few slices are mixed with water and eaten, while fasting, to treat persistent cases of intestinal parasites. Elsewhere in Costa Rica the endosperm is similarly used, but only with livestock. Too large a dose is said to be fatal (C-CR). Hazlett 14282, CATIE.

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Seed: Seeds are antirheumatic, used as an antidote to manchineel poisoning and manioc poisoning in French Guiana.
Seed Toxicity: Poisonous to animals.

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Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

The seeds are purgative and contain a bitter principle fevillin, tannin compounds and resins. From the early days it has had the reputation in Jamaica as an antidote for poison (probably due to its emetic and purgative properties), a wound dressing and a useful bitter. Beckwith found it still in use in the 1920's, the grated nut being used as a plaster for wounds and lameness and also as an emetic.

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Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

We find that the use of the seeds (pounded with sugar and soap) as a dressing for wounds such as those made by rusty nails persists in Jamaica. The seed is also a common antidote for poisoning.

1) Robertt, A., et al.. Medicinal Plants of the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guyana)/Smithsonian NMNH. cited online: 17-08-2017.

2) Asprey, G.F; Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts I & II. – p. 12.

3) Asprey, G.F; Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts III & IV. – p. 56.