Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek professional advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Seeds and pods are reported to be toxic and must not be ingested under any circumstances, particularly by children. Plant with traditional emmenagogue use: strictly contraindicated during pregnancy due to reported risk of abortifacient action. No reliable data on potential drug interactions: advice from a healthcare professional is essential before any internal use. Reserved for documented traditional use; do not exceed the light, occasional preparations described here.
Decoction — Dried Flowers
Flower decoction
The flowers are gently boiled for a few minutes in water, then the liquid is filtered. This traditional preparation was reserved for occasional and supervised use, never daily. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Infusion — Dried Flowers
Light flower infusion
The flowers are infused for a few minutes in simmering water then filtered. Prior consultation is recommended before any consumption, even occasional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Compress — Fresh Leaves
Leaf poultice
Fresh leaves are crushed to obtain a coarse paste, then applied directly to the affected area using a clean cloth. Traditional external use only, avoid on deeply damaged skin. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to Find It
Obtaining the plant
Caesalpinia pulcherrima grows spontaneously and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical regions of the Americas, from the Caribbean to Central America. Some herbalist shops specializing in tropical plants offer dried flowers.
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