Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Griffonia simplicifolia

Please read before use: the indications below describe traditional and informational uses — they do 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: Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient data. Do not combine with treatments affecting serotonin (antidepressants, triptans) without medical advice, due to risk of interaction. Not recommended for children or in cases of medically managed psychiatric conditions. Professional guidance is recommended before any prolonged use, as the plant acts on sensitive neurochemical mechanisms.

Powder — Seeds

Dried seed powder

The seeds are dried and then ground into a fine powder, traditionally consumed mixed with a little water or honey. Due to the potency of this preparation, supervision by a healthcare professional or experienced herbalist is strongly recommended. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Seeds

Seed tincture

The crushed seeds are macerated in alcohol at appropriate strength for several weeks, away from light, then filtered. This concentrated form requires professional advice before any use, as dosage varies greatly depending on the preparation. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

Griffonia simplicifolia grows wild in the humid undergrowth of West Africa, particularly in Ghana, Togo, and Côte d'Ivoire. Its seeds are now found mainly in specialized herbalist shops, often in powder or standardized extract form.

Harvest season

When to harvest

The pods are traditionally harvested at maturity, at the end of the rainy season, when the black seeds inside are fully formed.

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