Origin

Latin America

Folk medicinal uses

Root - The root powder is employed as emetic, as an infusion for adults and as a syrup for children. It is also used to encourage menstruation. The root powder can be used for skin problems, as a laxative, for cu~ing catarrhs, urinary tract diseases and diabetes. The Indians use the fresh juice of the roots as an expectorant.

Sap - A decoction of the sap is used for mouth ulcers.

Leaves - In Columbia the leaves are used to encourage menstruation.

Toxicity:

The toxicity of the powder may cause nausea, vomiting and other organic problems when inhaled.

Some medicinal forest plants of Africa and Latin America 67/ FAO. – FAO: Rome, 1986. – p. 188.