Botanical Overview
Bitterwood (Picrasma excelsa) belongs to the Simaroubaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. 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 found in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Venezuela. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Family Context
The Simaroubaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Stinktree — 36 documented uses
- Bitterwood — 21 documented uses
- Simaruba Bark — 19 documented uses
- Cedron — 10 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Bitterwood has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Bolivia, BQ, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and others.
Traditional Uses
Bitterwood has been traditionally used for digestive health, nervous system disorders, and fever management, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Vermifuge
- Stomachic
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.
Nervous system disorders.
- Narcotic
Nervous system support involves taking the herb as a warm tea, often in the evening or before bed. The calming compounds interact with neurotransmitter systems to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
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 9 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