Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Strophanthus sarmentosus

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 heterosides with a very narrow therapeutic margin, which can cause cardiac arrest if incorrectly dosed. Use is strictly discouraged for self-medication; any reported traditional use requires supervision by an experienced practitioner and must never be replicated alone. Contraindicated in cases of pre-existing heart conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and in combination with any cardiotonic or diuretic treatment (risk of serious interaction). Keep out of reach of children and animals; do not confuse the seeds with edible seeds due to their potentially fatal toxicity.

Decoction or powder — Seeds

Traditional seed-based preparation

Traditionally, the seeds were ground into a fine powder or decocted in very small quantities by traditional practitioners with precise knowledge of dosages. Given the major cardiac toxicity of this plant, no preparation should be made without the advice and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

External decoction — Stem or root bark

Traditional external use of bark

The bark was sometimes decocted for external use in topical skin applications, according to reported but poorly formalized practices. This use remains marginal and should also be discussed with a professional before any application. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Strophanthus sarmentosus grows wild in open forests and wooded savannas of West Africa; it is not cultivated for common commercial purposes and is not found in standard herbal commerce in Europe, due to its toxicity.

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