Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN

Indian Horse Chestnut

Aesculus indica
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses—it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. If in doubt, pregnant, breastfeeding, undergoing treatment, or using with children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: The raw seed is toxic and must never be consumed as such; it contains saponins (including aesculin) that can cause serious digestive disturbances, or even poisoning. Internal use is strongly discouraged without the supervision of a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist, due to the toxicity of the unprepared plant. Contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as in young children, due to insufficient safety data. Do not use in case of anticoagulant treatment or known clotting disorders, due to potential interactions.
Poultice — Seeds

Crushed seed poultice

The husked seeds are crushed then mixed with a little warm water or vegetable oil to form a paste, applied locally to the affected area using a clean cloth. This preparation was reserved for external use only and left in place for a few dozen minutes. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Seeds

Seed tincture (external use)

The crushed seeds are macerated in alcohol for several weeks, then filtered to obtain a tincture intended exclusively for external friction on legs or joints. The preparation of this tincture, due to the active and potentially irritating compounds it concentrates, must be entrusted to a trained professional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Infused oil — Seeds

Infused seed oil

The finely ground seeds are infused cold or at gentle heat in a vegetable oil for several days, then filtered. The oil obtained was used in gentle massage on tired legs, always in external application and never on broken skin. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

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