Botanical Overview
Idigbo (Terminalia ivorensis) belongs to the Combretaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. The combretum family (Combretaceae) includes trees, shrubs, and climbers with simple, opposite or alternate leaves and small flowers with four or five petals. The fruits are often winged or ridged. Many species contain tannins and have astringent, antimicrobial properties.
General Description
Terminalia ivorensis is a species of tree in the family Combretaceae, and is known by the common names of Ivory Coast almond, idigbo, black afara, framire and emeri.
Family Context
The Combretaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Ink Nut — 49 documented uses
- Indian Almond — 44 documented uses
- Arjun — 27 documented uses
- Rangoon Creeper — 21 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Idigbo has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Brazil, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Colombia, Ghana, and others.
Traditional Uses
Idigbo has been traditionally used for skin and wound care and pain and inflammation.
Skin and wound care.
- Sore
- Wound
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.
Pain and inflammation.
- Rheumatism
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
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:
- Terpene: aromatic compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties