Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

Although grey nicker is considered superior, the seeds of both species are dried and ground and used like coffee to prepare a drink which is thought useful for kidney trouble, diabetes and high blood pressure. In India the seeds of C. bonducella are regarded as tonic and anti-periodic. They are also said to be emetic and anthelmintic and were at one time used in Dominica as a diuretic and cathartic. The seeds contain a bitter principle, bonducin, which is not a glucoside but is probably of a resinous nature.

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Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

Since our previous account of these species it has become apparent that the generally accepted common name in Jamaica is nichol (nickel) rather than nicker. A recent communication indicates that the use of the seeds by diabetics is fraught with danger owing to the fact that they contain a principle which suppresses urinary sugar while leaving the blood sugar unaffected. We have so far been unable to locate an account of the investigations on which this statement is based. We further find that the seeds have been used tn the treatment of venereal diseases, being regarded as astringent. Both leaves and seeds have been used as an external application for hydrocoele while the leaves, which are said to be rubefacient, have been applied to aching teeth and used in cases of rheumatismand palsy and to prepare a gargle. The seeds have also been thought of value in the treatment of convulsions. The root, and especially its bark, was also considered of value in the treatment of intermittent fever.

1) Asprey, G.F: Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts I & II. – p. 7.

2) Asprey, G.F; Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts III & IV. – p. 51.