Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN
calabash tree
Crescentia cujete
Please 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 advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: The pulp and seeds may present toxicity if consumed in excess or improperly prepared; professional advice is recommended before any internal use. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women in the absence of sufficient safety data. Do not administer to young children without the advice of a healthcare professional. This traditional use has not been the subject of sufficient controlled studies; it cannot replace medical advice.
Decoction — Fruit Pulp
Calabash pulp decoction
The fresh pulp is gently simmered in water for a few minutes, then strained. This preparation was traditionally drunk warm, sometimes sweetened with honey. A healthcare professional or qualified herbalist must be consulted before any use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Poultice — Leaves
Pounded leaf poultice
Fresh leaves are pounded to obtain a paste, applied directly to the affected area and held in place with a clean cloth. Traditional use is limited to external application. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to Find It
Sourcing the plant
The calabash tree is found in the wild or cultivated in tropical regions of Central America and Mexico; in France, dried fruit or derived preparations may sometimes be found at certain herbalists specializing in exotic plants.
Harvest Season
When to harvest it
The fruits are generally harvested at maturity, at the end of the dry season, when their shell has hardened and the inner pulp is well formed.
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