Botanical Overview
Nance (Byrsonima crassifolia) is a flowering plant in the Malpighiaceae family. This plant has earned a place in traditional medicine through its consistent therapeutic benefits, recorded across multiple cultures. This species belongs to the Malpighiaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
Common names used in English include nance, maricao cimun, craboo, and golden spoon. In Jamaica it is called hogberry. The plant is valued for its small (between one, and one and a quarter centimeter in diameter) round, sweet yellow fruit, which is strongly scented. The fruits have a very pungent and distinct flavor and smell. When jarred, their texture resembles that of a green or kalamata olive.
Family Context
The Malpighiaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
Geographic Distribution
Nance has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana, Guyana, and others.
Traditional Uses
Nance has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- 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.
- Cold
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.
- Skin
- Sore
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 20 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:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities
- Tannin: astringent compounds that tighten tissues and resist infection