Jamaican Quassia

Picrasma excelsa

Physical Characteristics

Picrasma excelsa is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Northern S. America to Central America and the Caribbean.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: The bitter extract of the bark is used as a flavouring in drinks, baked goods, candy etc[238 , 301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Appetizer Bitter Febrifuge Malaria Parasiticide Jamaican quassia bark contains several medically active constituents including quassinoid bitter principles (including quassin); alkaloids; a coumarin, scopoletin; and vitamin B1[254 ]. It is an intensely bitter, non-astringent, odourless herb that lowers fever, stimulates appetite and improves digestion[238 ]. It is an effective parasiticide and is reputedly antileukaemic[238 ]. Some of the quassinoids have been shown to have cytotoxic and antileukaemic actions[254 ]. The strongly bitter principle in the bark supports and strengthens weak digestive systems, increasing bile flow plus the secretion of salivary juices and stomach acids[254 ]. It is used internally in the treatment of a wide range of illnesses where digestion is a contributory factor, particularly convalescent debility, poor appetite and anorexia[238 , 254 ]. Its bitterness has led to it being used in the treatment of malaria and other fevers[238 , 254 ]. It is also used to rid the body of nematode worms[238 ]. Used externally, it is a good lotion to get rid of parasites such as lice[238 ]. It is also used in an enema to rid the body of threadworms and other parasites[238 , 254 ]. The bark can be harvested as required throughout the year, and can be dried for later use[254 ].

Known Hazards

Some care needs to be exercised when ingesting this plant since excess doses can lead to gastric irritation and vomiting[254 ].