Whole plant:: toxic

Root: Bitter, aperitive, tonic, febrifuge; contains physaline, a substance recommended as a quinine substitute for intermittent fevers. Used for ground itch, kidney problems, and worms in NW Guyana.

Leaf: Infusion for a cholagogue. Boiled in a preparation for urine retention. Used to treat swelling in NW Guyana.

Fruit: Infusion as a diuretic and laxative; vermifuge; an edible condiment when macerated in vinegar.

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