Botanical Overview
Spanish oak (Catalpa longissima) belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
Family Context
The Bignoniaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Yellow Elder — 18 documented uses
- Jicaro — 15 documented uses
- Indian bean — 7 documented uses
- Hsin-Pa-Pi — 2 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Spanish oak has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Colombia, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, and others.
Traditional Uses
Spanish oak has been traditionally used for fever management.
Fever management.
- Fever
Febrifuge preparations are typically administered as hot teas to induce perspiration, which helps the body regulate temperature. The patient is kept warm and encouraged to rest while the herb promotes sweating.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 7 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:
- Phenolic: antioxidant compounds that neutralize free radicals
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Tannin: astringent compounds that tighten tissues and resist infection