Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Jatropha gaumeri

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 latex and seeds of the Jatropha genus contain compounds known to be toxic; any internal use must not be undertaken without the supervision of a qualified professional. Never apply latex to mucous membranes, significant open wounds, or damaged skin without advice from a specialist, due to risk of irritation. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for young children, due to insufficient safety data. Keep out of reach of children: accidental ingestion of Jatropha seeds or latex is documented as dangerous.

Topical application of latex — Sap / latex from bark or stems

Traditional external use on minor lesions

A light incision in the bark or stem releases a milky latex, applied in very small amounts directly to the affected area using a clean cloth. This use, reported in Mayan tradition, requires extreme caution and prior advice from a healthcare professional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Bark decoction for washing — Bark

External skin wash

Dried bark is brought to a boil in water then allowed to cool before use as a topical wash on the skin. This traditional preparation must not be ingested and is for external use only. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

Jatropha gaumeri grows wild in the dry forests and limestone scrublands of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico; it is not cultivated in Europe and remains very rarely available in Western herbalist shops.

Harvest season

When to harvest

The bark and sap are traditionally harvested during the dry season, when the shrub is richest in latex.

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