Botanical Overview
Stinktree (Ailanthus altissima) is a flowering plant in the Simaroubaceae family. The traditional uses of this species reflect its genuine medicinal value, validated by generations of practical experience. The quassia family (Simaroubaceae) includes trees and shrubs with bitter bark, compound leaves, and small, unisexual flowers. The fruits are typically drupes or samaras. Many species contain quassinoids, intensely bitter compounds with antimalarial and anticancer activity.
General Description
It is native to northeast, central China, and Taiwan. Unlike other members of the genus Ailanthus, it is found in temperate climates rather than the tropics.
Family Context
The Simaroubaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Bitterwood — 21 documented uses
- Simaruba Bark — 19 documented uses
- Cedron — 10 documented uses
- Bitterwood — 9 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Stinktree has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and others.
Traditional Uses
Stinktree has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Dysentery
- Vermifuge
- Diarrhea
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Asthma
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Eruption
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities