Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Strophanthus courmontii

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: Highly toxic plant: the seeds contain potent cardiotonic glycosides that can cause severe cardiac disturbances, or even death. Never consume, prepare, or handle this plant without qualified expert supervision; no domestic use can be recommended. Contraindicated in all circumstances for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and in case of cardiac pathology, due to life-threatening risk. Serious interactions possible with cardiac treatments (particularly digitalis): keep strictly away from any self-medication.

Traditional preparation (non-domestic use) — Seeds

Ancestral preparation for ritual purposes

The seeds were traditionally crushed then mixed with other substances to obtain a paste used to coat arrow tips. This process was part of knowledge reserved for initiates and cannot be reproduced or described for practical purposes here. Any handling of the seed must be entrusted exclusively to qualified professionals. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Strophanthus courmontii grows wild in the dense forests of Central and tropical Africa; it is not cultivated nor commercially available in herbalism due to its toxicity.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

The mature seeds, contained in long tapered capsules, are traditionally harvested at the end of the dry season, when the fruits open naturally.

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