Condition
Treatment Support
sedatives
Application
tincture, capsules
Jamaica Dogwood
(Piscidia erythrina)
Also know as Fish poison tree
Botanical Information
A small deciduous tree in the Pea family, with pink, lavender, or sometimes white pea-like flowers native to the Caribbean.
Working with Jamaica Dogwood
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Tincture
Christopher Hobbs:
“Jamaica dogwood is used as a sedative and anodyne, its main indication being for insomnia caused by pain or nervous tension, especially in the aged. It is also reported effective for neuralgia, migraine, cramping pain during menstruation, sciatica, earache, migraine, and is a specific for toothache. The herb is sometimes recommended for relieving pain and discomfort of whooping cough, combined with other herbs.
Jamaica Dogwood has a taste of BITTER, ACRID and a temperature of WARM.”
Historical Uses
- Traditionally, Jamaica Dogwood has been used by indigenous peoples of the Caribbean and parts of North America as a sedative and analgesic, particularly for relieving pain and anxiety.
- It was also used as a remedy for insomnia, muscle spasms, and as a treatment for various types of pain, including neuralgia, headaches, and rheumatic conditions.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
- Herbalists and naturopaths continue to use Jamaica Dogwood for its calming effects on the nervous system, especially for treating insomnia, anxiety, and stress.
- It is also employed as an antispasmodic, muscle relaxant, and pain reliever, particularly for conditions like menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, and headaches.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
- The primary active compounds in Jamaica Dogwood include piscidine, a compound with sedative and analgesic properties, and flavonoids such as apigenin, which contribute to its calming effects.
- The plant contains alkaloids that can have mild narcotic effects, and some compounds are thought to influence the central nervous system by acting on GABA receptors, which help reduce anxiety and induce sleep.
Clinical Trials and Research
- There is limited clinical research on the effectiveness of Jamaica Dogwood in modern medical settings, though it has been studied for its sedative, analgesic, and muscle-relaxant properties.
- Some animal studies and small-scale human trials have supported its use for pain and anxiety relief, but the evidence remains insufficient to draw definitive conclusions.
- There is a need for more rigorous clinical trials to confirm its efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics.
Summary
Jamaica Dogwood is a historically valued herb used for pain relief, sedation, and muscle relaxation. While modern herbalists and naturopaths continue to use it for similar purposes, clinical research is still limited. Caution is advised due to potential toxicity at higher doses, and it should not be combined with sedatives. More research is needed to fully validate its clinical applications.
Cautions
Jamaica Dogwood is considered relatively safe when used appropriately in therapeutic doses, but it should be used with caution.
Toxicity: Large doses can cause adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and respiratory depression. Long-term use is not recommended due to the potential for cumulative effects on the nervous system.
It should not be used with other sedatives or central nervous system depressants, as this could potentiate side effects like drowsiness or respiratory issues.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it, as its safety in these populations is not well studied
For larger doses than 1 dropperful, it is best to consult an herbalist or qualified health care practitioner; can be
toxic in excessive amounts. Dosages vary depending on the preparation and individual health conditions. It is always advisable to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.
Conditions treated with Jamaica Dogwood
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
anodyne
Application
tincture, capsule
Condition
Treatment Support
anodyne
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
anodyne
Application
tincture
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
