Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Monograph

Lithraea molleoides

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. If in doubt, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Plant from the Anacardiaceae family, known for its allergenic and irritant potential on skin and mucous membranes, similar to poison sumac; any direct handling is not recommended without precautions. Internal use is strongly discouraged without supervision by a healthcare professional or experienced herbalist, as the chemical composition of the resin and sap is not harmless. Contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as well as in children, due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with a history of contact allergy (particularly to sumac, mango, or cashew nut, plants from the same family) should avoid all contact with this plant.

Decoction — Bark and leaves

Traditional decoction (reported historical use)

Traditionally, a piece of bark or a few leaves were brought to a boil then left to infuse. This preparation, reported in regional folk pharmacopoeia, should only be considered with the approval and supervision of a healthcare professional, due to known risks associated with this plant. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

External application (poultice or wash) — Fresh leaves

Traditional external use

The leaves were sometimes crushed and applied as a light poultice on the skin in certain rural practices. This use carries a documented risk of skin reaction and should only be attempted after specialist advice. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Lithraea molleoides grows naturally in mountainous and wooded areas of Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil; it is not commercially available in European herbalist shops due to its allergenic potential and limited documentation.

← Back to plant profile