boil

Abelmoschus esculentus

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Haiti:

  • calalou

Dominica:

  • gumbo
  • okra

Dominican Republic:

  • molondrón
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

  fruit, crushed, in local application2

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to the information available:

The use of the fruit for ocular conditions and boils is classified as REC based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, the toxicity studies and the scientific information published.

For ocular conditions, there is a risk of increasing the irritation by the application of the maceration of the fruit in eyewashes.

All topical applications, in particular in the eyes, must follow the strictest hygiene measures, in order to prevent contamination or additional infection and to avoid contact with substances that can irritate the conjunctiva.

Ensure adequate washing and cleaning of the fruit, as well as the removal of its external villi; these can cause irritation to the skin and mucosa.

If deterioration is observed in the patient or the ocular symptoms persist for more than 3 days or the infection in the skin for more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

Not for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding or in children under 12 years of age for ocular conditions and 5 years for skin conditions.

The fruits of Abelmoschus esculentus are a relatively widespread food for human consumption.

TRAMIL Work28

For ocular infections:

wash the fruit and remove its external villi; chop 4-5 average-sized fruits (5 cm) and add them to 4 cups (1 litre) of boiled water, leave them to rest until they reach a mucilaginous texture, strain (filter) the preparation with a clean cloth before making an eye wash every 2-4 hours.

For boils:

wash the fruit and remove its external villi. Wash the lesion with boiled water and soap, apply 2-5 grams of crushed fruit on the affected area. Cover with a clean cloth and change every 12 hours.

Preparations must never be stored for more than 24 hours, even if refrigerated.

1 WENIGER B, 1987-88
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

2 CHARLES C, 1988
TRAMIL survey. Movement for Cultural Awareness MCA, Roseau, Dominica.

3 BASU KP, GHOSH D, 1943
Availability of Ca in lady's finger (Hibiscus esculentus), cabbage (Brassica oleracea capitata), drumstick (Moringa oleifera), and amaranth tender (Amaranthus gangeticus). I. Experiments. Indian J Med Res 31:29-31.

4 LENGSFELD C, TITGEMEYER F, FALLER G, HENSEL A, 2004
Glycosylated compounds from okra inhibit adhesion of Helicobacter pylori to human gastric mucosa. J Agric Food Chem 52(6):1495-1503.

5 WOOLFE ML, CHAPLIN MF, OTCHERE G, 1977
Studies on the mucilages extracted from okra fruits (Hibiscus esculentus) and baobab leaves (Adansonia digitata). J Sci Food Agr 28(6):519-529.

6 DEMETRIADES SD, 1956
Chromatographic detection of free amino-acids in normal iron-deficient plants of Hibiscus esculentus L. Nature 177(4498):95.

7 KOSHIOKA M, NISHIJIMA T, YAMAZAKI H, 1996
Endogenous gibberellins in the immature seeds of okra. J Plant Physiol 149(1-2):129-132.

8 BUREAU JL, BUSHWAY RJ, 1986
HPLC determination of carotenoids in fruits and vegetables in the United States. J Food Sci (51)1:128-130.

9 SAKAKIBARA H, HONDA Y, NAKAGAWA S, ASHIDA H, KANAZAWA K, 2003
Simultaneous determination of all polyphenols in vegetables, fruits, and teas. J Agric Food Chem 51(3):571-581.

10 SCHMIDT JH, WELLS R, 1990
Evidence for the presence of gossypol in malvaceous plants other than those in the "cotton tribe". J Agr Food Chem 38(2):505-508.

11 BERRY SK, 1980
The fatty acid composition and cyclopropene fatty acid content of the maturing okra (Hibiscus esculentus L.) fruits. Pertanika 3(2):82-86.

12 BANDYUKOVA VA, LIGAI LV, 1987
A chemical investigation of the fruit of Abelmoschus esculentus. Chem Nat Comp 23(3):376-377.

13 DANIEL M, 1989
Polyphenols of some Indian vegetables. Curr Sci 58(23):1332-1334.

14 OSMAN AM, YOUNES MEG, ATA FM, 1974
Chemical examinations of local plants: Part X. Comparative studies between the constituents of some parts of Hibiscus esculentus Linn (Egyptian okra). Indian J Chem 12(9):1019A.

15 DUKE JA, 1992
Handbook of phytochemical constituents of GRAS herbs and other economic plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press.

16 DUKE JA, ATCHLEY AA, 1986
Handbook of proximate analysis tables of higher plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press. p7.

17 LUCIANO-MONTALVO C, GAVILLÁN-SUÁREZ J, BOULOGNE I, 2011
A screening for antimicrobial activities of Caribbean herbal remedies. Informe TRAMIL. Cuadernos de Investigación del Instituto de Investigaciones Interdisciplinarias de la Universidad de Puerto Rico en Cayey. Cuaderno 16.

18 GEORGE M, PANDALAI KM 1949
Investigations on plant antibiotics. Part IV. Further search for antibiotic substances in Indian medicinal plants. Indian J Med Res 37(2):169-181.

19 VERPOORTE R, DIHAL PP, 1987
Medicinal plants of Surinam. IV. Antimicrobial activity of some medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol 21(3):315-318.

20 CÁCERES A, MENÉNDEZ H, MÉNDEZ E, COHOBON E, SAMAYAO BE, JAUREGUI E, PERALTA E, CARRILLO G, 1992
Antigonorrhoeal activity of plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacia, Universidad de San Carlos, Guatemala, Guatemala.

21 CÁCERES A, MENÉNDEZ H, MÉNDEZ E, COHOBON E, SAMAYAO BE, JAUREGUI E, PERALTA E, CARRILLO G, 1995
Antigonorrhoeal activity of plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. J Ethnopharmacol 48(2):85-88.

22 YASUKAWA K, YAMAGUCHI A, ARITA J, SAKURAI S, IKEDA A, TAKIDO M, 1993
Inhibitory effect of edible plant extract on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced ear oedema in mice. Phytother Res 7(2):185-189.

23 LÓPEZ M, MOREJÓN Z, GARCÍA AI, MARTÍNEZ MJ, 2013
Irritabilidad dérmica primaria de frutos frescos machacados de Abelmoschus esculentus. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, La Habana, Cuba.

24 CAIZA F, AYMERICH R, 2013
Irritabilidad dérmica aguda del liofilizado del fruto de Abelmoschus esculentus. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi®, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

25 CAIZA F, AYMERICH R, 2013
Irritabilidad ocular del liofilizado del fruto de Abelmoschus esculentus. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.
26 MORTON JF, 1981
Atlas of medicinal plants of Middle America. Springfield, USA: Charles C. Thomas Publisher.

27 UEDA A, MANDA F, AOYAMA K, UEDA T, OBAMA K, LI Q, TOCHIGI T, 1993
Immediate-type allergy related to okra (Hibiscus esculentus L.) picking and packing. Environ Res 62(2):189-199.

28 CARBALLO A, 1995
Plantas medicinales del Escambray cubano. Apuntes científicos. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio provincial de producción de medicamentos, Sancti Spiritus, Cuba.

Capsicum annuum

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Dominican Republic:

  • ají caribe

St Vincent and Grenadines:

  • pepper bush

Haiti:

  • piman caraïbe
  • piman zwézo
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

  leaf, heated and greased in fat, applied locally1-3

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to published and other information:

The use for boils and ganglionary inflammation is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use (WHO)4 documented in the TRAMIL surveys.

Do not apply leaf for more than three minutes after local erythema (reddening) appears (normal reaction).

For topical application, strict hygiene measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Self-medication should not be used in cases of boils or carbuncles on the face or neck where there is a risk of septicemia.

Adverse interaction with barbituric medicines has been documented, therefore ingestion of any plant part should be avoided by people taking these or other medicines metabolized in the liver.

The fruit powder may cause reactions of skin hypersensitivity.

The fruit ofCapsicum annuum is widely used for human consumption.

TRAMIL research28

For boils and ganglionary inflammation:

Wash injury with boiled water and soap, apply 2-4 grams of leaf to affected area.

Note: The popular practice of greasing in fat probably facilitates extraction of the active principle with the rubefacient effect -i.e. capsaicin-, but it carries the risk of overadded infection.

1 GERMOSEN-ROBINEAU L, GERONIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

2 WENIGER B, 1987-88
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

3 BALLAND V, GLASGOW A, SPRINGER F, GAYMES G, 2004
TRAMIL survey. enda-caribbean, IICA, UAG & U.PARIS XI, Saint Vincent.

4 GUTSU EV, KINTYA PK, LAZURIIEVSKII GV, Balashova nn, 1984
Steroid alkaloids and glycosides of Capsicum annuum L. Rast Resur 20(1):127-130.

5 POLITIS J, 1948
Distribution of chlorogenic acid in solanaceae and in the organs of these plants. Compt Rend 226:692-693.

6 TOMAS F, FERRERES F, 1980
Flavonoids from the leaves of Capsicum annuum (Solanaceae). I. Major components. Afinidad 37:517-518.

7 NOWACZYK L, 2011
Technlogical characteristics of fruit as an average of fruit as an average of soft-flesh Capsicum spp genotypes. Herba Polonica 57(2):38-44.

8 MARTINEZ MJ, BETANCOURT J, LOPEZ M, MOREJON Z, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2005
Antimicrobial effect of fresh leaves and their juice of Capsicum annuum. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, La Habana, Cuba.

9 CICHEWICZ RH, THORPE PA, 1996
The antimicrobial properties of chili peppers (Capsicum species) and their uses in Mayan medicine. J Ethnopharmacol 52(2):61-70.

10 DUKE JA, 1992
Handbook of biologically active phytochemicals and their activities. Boca Ratón, USA: CRC Press.

11 DUKE JA, 2000
Chemicals and their biological activities in: Capsicum annuum L. Dr. Duke’s Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases. USDA-ARS-NGRL, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, USA, Aug.10,2000. URL: www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/duke/farmacy2.pl

12 MARTINEZ MJ, BETANCOURT J, LOPEZ M, MOREJON Z, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2005
Irritabilidad dérmica primaria de hoja fresca en aceite de Capsicum annuum. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, La Habana, Cuba.

13 MARTINEZ MJ, BETANCOURT J, LOPEZ M, MOREJON Z, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2005
Clases tóxicas agudas tópica de hoja fresca machacada de Capsicum annuum. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, La Habana, Cuba.

14 DHAWAN BN, PATNAIK GK, RASTOGI RP, SINGH KK, TANDON JS, 1977
Screening of Indian plants for biological activity VI. Indian J Exp Biol 15(3):208-219.

15 GUZZO CA, LAZARUS GS, WERTH VP, 1996
Dermatological pharmacology. In: HARDMAN JG, GILMAN AG, LIMBIRD LE Eds. Goodman and Gilman’s the pharmacological basis of therapeutics. 9th ed. New York, USA: The McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing, International Edition.

16 PEISKER V, ARANGUREN ML, MONTERO DE ESPINOSA E, MORAES J, LEAL MS, SANZ J, 1995
Vademécum Internacional. Madrid, España: Medicom S.A.

17 CARBALLO A, 1995
Cálculo de concentración y dosis de las drogas vegetales TRAMIL: Mensuraciones farmacognósticas y aproximaciones técnico-clínicas. Laboratorio provincial de producción de medicamentos, Sancti Spiritus, Cuba.

Carica papaya

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Haiti:

  • papay

Dominica:

  • pawpaw
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

green fruit, crushed or baked, applied locally1

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to published and other information:

The use for boils and urethritis is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, toxicity studies, scientific validation and available published scientific information.

For topical application, strict measures of hygiene should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Due to the health risks involved with urethritis, an initial medical evaluation is recommended.  The use of this resource can be considered complementary to medical treatment, unless it is contraindicated.

Do not use root maceration during pregnancy, lactation or in children under 12 years of age.  Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days in any kind of patient.

The ripe fruit of Carica papaya is widely used for human consumption; when unripe, it is eaten without peel, cooked in various dishes.

For boils:

Wash the injury with boiled water and soap.  Wash the green fruit, grate it, and apply 5-10 grams of vegetal material on the affected area twice a day.  Cover the injury with a dressing or clean cloth.

For urethritis:

There is no available information concerning preparation and dosage other than that referred to by the traditional use.

1 CHARLES C, 1988
TRAMIL survey. Movement for Cultural Awareness MCA, Roseau, Dominica.

2 WENIGER B, ROUZIER M, 1986
Enquête TRAMIL. Service Oecuménique d'Entraide SOE, Port au Prince, Haïti.

3 MAC LEOD AJ, PIERIS NM, 1983
Volatile components of papaya (Carica papaya L.) with particular reference to glucosinolate products. J Agric Food Chem 31(5):1005-1008.

4 JINDAL KK, SINGH RN, 1975
Phenolic content in male and female Carica papaya: Possible physiological marker for sex identification of vegetative seedlings. Physiol Plant 33(1):104-107.

5 TANG CS, 1971
Benzyl isothiocyanate of papaya fruit. Phytochemistry 10:117-121.

6 RIVERA DM, YAHIA EM, GONZALEZ GA, 2010
Phenolic and carotenoid profiles of papaya fruit (Carica papaya L.) and their contents under low temperature storage. J Sci Food Agric 90(14):2358-2365.

7 GAYOSSO L, YAHIA E, GONZALEZ G, 2011
Identification and quantification of phenols, carotenoids, and vitamin C from papaya (Carica papaya L., cv. Maradol) fruit determined by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS-ESI. Food Research International 44:1284-1291.

8 HASHEM FM, HAGGAG MY, GALAL AMS, 1980
A phytochemical study of Carica papaya L. growing in Egypt. Egypt J Pharm Sci 21(3/4):199-214.

9 SELVARAJ Y, PAL DK, 1982
Changes in the chemical composition of papaya (Thailand variety) during growth and development. J Food Sci Technol 19:257-259.

10 PICKERSGILL RW, SUMNER IG, GOODENOUGH PW, 1990
Preliminary crystallographic data for protease omega. Eur J Biochem 190(2):443-444.

11 GIMLETTED JD, 1939
A dictionary of Malayan medicine. New York, USA: Oxford University Press.

12 ARGUETA A, CANO L, RODARTE ME, 1994
Atlas de las plantas de la medicina tradicional mexicana. Tomo II. México D.F., México: Instituto Nacional Indigenista. pp1117-1119.

13 IDSTEINS H, BAUER C, SCHREIER P, 1985
Volatile acids in tropical fruits: cherimoya (Annona cherimolia Mills.), guava (Psidium guajava L.), mango (Mangifera indica L. var. alphonso), papaya (Carica papaya L.). Z Lebensm Unters Forsch 180(5):394-397.

14 PINO J, ALMORA K, MARBOT R, 2003
Volatile components of papaya (Carica papaya L., Maradol variety) fruit. Flavour & Fragrance J 18(6):492-496.

15 KERHARO J, ADAM J, 1974
La Pharmacopée sénégalaise traditionnelle. Paris, France: Ed. Vigot Frères.

16 DUKE JA, 1992
Handbook of phytochemical constituents of GRAS herbs and other economic plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press.

17 HEGNAUER R, 1973
Chemotaxonomie der Pflanzen. Basel, Schweiz: Birkhauser Verlag. 6:882.

18 TANG C, 1979
New macrocyclic piperideine alkaloids from papaya leaves: dehydrocarpaine I and II. Phytochemistry 18(4):651-652.

19 DUKE JA, ATCHLEY AA, 1986
Handbook of proximate analysis tables of higher plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press p36.

20 CACERES A, 1992
Antigonorrhoeal activity of plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Informe TRAMIL. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de San Carlos, Guatemala, Guatemala.

21 CACERES A, MENENDEZ H, MENDEZ E, COHOBON E, SAMAYOA BE, JAUREGUI E, PERALTA E, CARRILLO G, 1995
Antigonorrhoeal activity of plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. J Ethnopharmacol 48(2):85-88.

22 EMERUWA AC, 1982
Antibacterial substances from Carica papaya fruit extract. J Nat Prod 45(2):123-127.

23 OSATO JA, SANTIAGO LA, REMO GM, CUADRA MS, MORI A, 1993
Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of unripe papaya. Life Sci 53(17):1383-1389.

24 GEORGE M, PANDALAI KM, 1949
Investigations on plant antibiotics. Part IV. Further search for antibiotic substances in Indian medicinal plants. Indian J Med Res 37:169-181.

25 GUNDIDZA M, 1986
Screening of extracts from Zimbabwean higher plants II: antifungal properties. Fitoterapia 57(2):111-113.

26 GIORDANI R, SIEPAIO M, MOULIN-TRAFFORT J, REGLI P, 1991
Antifungal action of Carica papaya latex: isolation of fungal cell wall hydrolysing enzymes. Mycoses (Marseille) 34(11/12):469-477.

27 YASUKAWA K, YAMAGUCHI A, ARITA J, IKEDA A, TAKIDO M, 1993
Inhibitory effect of edible plant extracts on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced ear oedema in mice. Phytother Res 7(2):185-189.

28 SRIPANIDKULCHAI B, WONGPANICH V, LAUPATTARAKASEM P, SUWANSAKSRI J, JIRAKULSOMCHOK D, 2001
Diuretic effects of selected Thai indigenous medicinal plants in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 75(2-3):185-190.

29 STARLEY IF, MOHAMMED P, SCHNEIDER G, BICKLER SW, 1999
The treatment of pediatric burns using topical papaya. Burns 25(7):636-639.

30 SOUZA BRITO A, 1988
Acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of Carica papaya. (Toxicidad aguda del extracto acuoso de raíz de Carica papaya). Informe TRAMIL. Dep. de Fisiología y Biofísica, Universidad de Campinas, Campinas, Brasil.

31 GarcIa-GonzAlez M, Coto MT, GonzAlez CS, Pazos L, 2001
Repeated dose dermal irritability of the grated fresh fruit of Carica papaya. (Irritabilidad dérmica del fruto fresco rallado de Carica papaya dosis repetida). Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos LEBi, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

Chromolaena odorata

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Dominican Republic:

  • rompezaragüey
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

  leaf, warm and greased (lamb fat), applied locally1

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to published and other information:

External use for furuncles and skin ulcer is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use (OMS/WHO)4 documented in the TRAMIL surveys.

For topical application, strict hygienic measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should furuncles or skin ulcer last for more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

Not for use during pregnancy, during lactation or by children under 5 years old.

For furuncles and skin ulcer:

Wash the affected area with boiled water and soap.  Wash leaf thoroughly, warm it slightly over a fire, take 5-10 grams of this vegetal material and apply topically either directly or mixed with animal fat.  Cover with a pad or with clean cloth and replace twice a day.

1 GERMOSÉN-ROBINEAU L, GERÓNIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

2 BOSE P, CHAKRABARTI D, CHAKRAVARTI S, DUTTA S, BARVA A, 1973
Flavonoids constituents of Eupatorium odoratum. Phytochemistry 12(3):667-668.

3 ARENE E, PETTIT G, ODE R, 1978
The isolation of isosakuranetin methyl ether from Eupatorium odoratum. Lloydia 41:68-70.

4 FARNSWORTH N, CORDELL GA, KAAS CJ, 1980
What is odoratin?. J Pharm Sci 69(9):1107.

5 METWALLY A, EKEJIUBA E, 1981
Methoxylated flavonols and flavanones from Eupatorium odoratum. Planta Med 42:403-405.

6 HAI M, SAHA K, AHMAD M, 1995
Chemical constituents of Eupatorium odoratum Linn (Compositae). J Bangladesh Chem Soc 8(2):139-142.

7 AHMAD M, NABI M, 1967
Chemical investigations on the leaves of Eupatorium odoratum. Sci Res 4:154-157.

8 TALAPATRA SK, BHAR DS, TALAPATRA B, 1977
Terpenoids and related compounds: Part XIII. Epoxylupeol, a new triterpenoid from Eupatorium odoratum. Indian J Chem 15B(9):806-807.

9 IWU M, CHIORI C, 1984
Antimicrobial activity of Eupatorium odoratum extracts. Fitoterapia 55(6)354-356.

10 BOSE P, CHAKRABARTI P, CHAKRAVARTI S, DUTTA SP, BARUA AK, 1974
Chemical examination of the leaves of Eupatorium odoratum. Trans Bose Res Inst Calcutta 37(1-2):25-30.

11 INYA-AGHA S, OGUNTIMEIN B, SOFOWORA A, BENJAMIN T, 1987
Phytochemical and antibacterial studies on the essential oil of Eupatorium odoratum. Int J Crude Drug Res 25(1):49-52.

12 NWOKOLO E, 1987
Leaf meals of Siam weed Eupatorium odoratum L. as nutrient source in poultry diet. Nutr Rep Int 36(4):819-826.

13 JOYEUX M, FLEURENTIN J, DORFMAN P, MONTIER F, 1988
Recherche d'une activité hépatotrope et antiradicalaire de plantes médicinales de la caraïbe. Rapport TRAMIL. Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Centre des Sciences pour l'Environnement, Metz, France.

14 FIALLO M, VAZQUEZ TINEO M, 1992
Evaluación in vitro de plantas usadas en afecciones de la piel: Extractos vegetales antimicóticos y antimicrobianos. Informe TRAMIL. CIBIMA, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma UASD, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

15 LE GRAND A, WONDERGEM PA, 1986
Activités antimicrobiennes et études bibliographiques de la toxicologie de dix plantes médicinales de la Caraïbe. Rapport TRAMIL. Dép. de Pharmacognosie, Universités de Groningen & Leyden, Pays-Bas.

16 GUPTA M, ESPOSITO AVELLA M, 1988
Evaluación química y farmacológica de algunas plantas medicinales de TRAMIL. Centro de Investigaciones Farmacognósticas de la Flora Panameña CIFLORPAN, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá.

17 PHAN TT, HUGHES MA, CHERRY GW, 1998
Enhanced proliferation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells treated with an extract of the leaves of Chromolaena odorata (Eupolin), an herbal remedy for treating wounds. Plastic and reconstructive surgery 101(3):756-765.

18 DUKE JA, 1992
Handbook of biologically active phytochemicals and their bioactivities. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press.

19 MARTÍNEZ MJ, LÓPEZ M, MOREJÓN Z, BOUCOURT E, FUENTES V, MORÓN F, 2000
Toxicidad aguda tópica hojas frescas calentadas de Eupatorium odoratum L. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas "Dr. Salvador Allende", La Habana, Cuba.

20 FENG PC, HAYNES LJ, MAGNUS KE, PLIMMER JR, SHERRAT HSA, 1962
Pharmacological screening of some West Indian medicinal plants. J Pharm Pharmacol 14:556-561.

21 BHAKUNI O, DHAR ML, DHAR MM, DHAWAN BN, MEHROTRA BN, 1969
Screening of Indian plants for biological activity. Part II. Indian J Exp Biol 7(4):250-262.

Cissus verticillata

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Dominican Republic:

  • bejuco caro

Haiti:

  • lyann mòl
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

  leaf, crushed, applied locally2

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to published and other information:

The topical use for abscess, ganglionar inflammation and boils is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, and skin toxicity studies.

For topical application, strict hygiene measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should the abscess or boils last more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

Oral administration for cold, cough and influenza is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys and toxicity studies.

Not for use by women during pregnancy, during lactation or by children under 5 years old.

For abscess, ganglionar inflammation and boils:

Wash injury with boiled water and soap.  Apply the washed and crushed leaf in sufficient quantity to the affected area.  Cover the injury with a dressing or clean cloth.  Replace every 12 hours.

For colds, cough and influenza:

There is no available information establishing a means of preparation and dosage other than that referred to by traditional use.

1 WENIGER B, ROUZIER M, 1986
Enquête TRAMIL. Service Oecuménique d'Entraide SOE, Port au Prince, Haïti.

2 GERMOSEN-ROBINEAU L, GERONIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

3 WENIGER B, SAVARY H, DAGUIHL R, 1984
Tri phytochimique de plantes de la liste TRAMIL. Laboratoire de chimie des substances naturelles, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Université d'Etat d'Haïti, Port au Prince, Haïti.

4 PINEDA M, 1990
Fitoquímica de algunas plantas TRAMIL. Laboratorio enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

5 GARCIA MD, QUILEZ AM, SAENZ MT, MARTINEZ-DOMINGUEZ ME, DE LA PUERTA R, 2000
Anti-inflammatory activity of Agave intermixta Trel. and Cissus sicyoides L., species used in the Caribbean traditional medicine. J Ethnopharmacol 71:395-400.

6 BELTRAME FL, SARTORETTO JL, BAZOTTE RB, CUMAN RN, CORTEZ DAG, 2001
Estudo fitoquímico e avaliação do efeito antidiabético do Cissus verticillata L (Vitaceae). Química Nova 24:783-785.

7 BARBOSA WLR, SANTOS WRAS, PINTO LN, TAVARES ICC, 2002
Flavonóides de Cissus verticillata e a atividade hipoglicemiante do chá de suas folhas. Rev Bras Farmacognosia 12:13-15.

8 DE SOUSA C, DE PAIVA T, BEZERRA P, FALCÃO J, OLIVEIRA F, SILVEIRA E, FERREIRA J, FREIRE D, RODRIGUES M, CLEA F, DE SOUSA F, DE CASTRO D, DA ROCHA S, DE BARROS G, 2007
Anti-diabetic activity of a fraction from Cissus verticillata and tyramine, its main bioactive constituent, in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. American J of Pharmacology and Toxicology 2(4):178-188.

9 STANDLEY PC, 1937
The flora of Costa Rica, Pt. I. Bot Serv Field Mus Nat Hist 18(391):398.

10 MARTINEZ MJ, LOPEZ M, BOUCOURT E, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2002
Evaluación de la actividad antiestafilocóccica de Cissus verticillata. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas "Dr. Salvador Allende", La Habana, Cuba.

11 LE GRAND A, WONDERGEM PA, 1986
Activités antimicrobiennes et études bibliographiques de la toxicologie de dix plantes médicinales de la Caraïbe. Rapport TRAMIL. Dép. de Pharmacognosie, Universités de Groningen & Leyden, Hollande.

12 FENG PC, HAYNES LJ, MAGNUS KE, PLIMMER JR, 1964
Pharmacological screening of some West Indian medicinal plants. J Pharm Pharmacol 16:115-117.

13 JIU J, 1966
A survey of some medicinal plants of Mexico for selected biological activities. Lloydia 29:250-259.

14 GARCIA MD, QUILEZ AM, SAENZ MT, MARTINEZ DOMINGUEZ ME, DE LA PUERTA R, 2000.
Anti-inflammatory activity of Agave intermixta Trel. and Cissus sicyoides L., species used in South Caribbean traditional medicine.
J Ethnopharmacol 71(3):395-400.

15 MARTINEZ MJ, LOPEZ M, BOUCOURT E, BETANCOURT J, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2002.
Irritabilidad dérmica primaria de Cissus verticillata. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas "Dr. Salvador Allende", La Habana, Cuba.

16 MARTINEZ MJ, LOPEZ M, BOUCOURT E, BETANCOURT J, FUENTES V, MORON F, 2002.
Toxicidad aguda tópica de Cissus verticillata. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas "Dr. Salvador Allende", La Habana, Cuba.

17 CAMBAR P, 1992
Efecto de los extractos acuosos de Cissus verticillata L. Informe TRAMIL. Unidad de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Cocos nucifera

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Nicaragua:

  • 'kukus

Dominica:

  • coco-tree
  • coconut tree

St Vincent and Grenadines:

  • coco-tree
  • coconut tree

Guatemala:

  • cocotero

Honduras:

  • cocotero

Dominican Republic:

  • cocotero
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

fruit oil with fresh

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to available information:

Use for asthma, asthenia and weakness is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, and on available published scientific information.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should asthma last more than 2 days, seek medical attention.

There is no information available on this resource for asthmatic crisis.

Use for urinary infections is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, and on available published scientific information.

Due to the health risks involved with asthma, urinary infection or renal stones, an initial medical evaluation is recommended.  The use of this resource can be considered complementary to medical treatment, unless it is contraindicated.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should urinary infection symptoms last more than 3 days, seek medical attention.

Not for use as an orally administered medicine during pregnancy, during lactation or by children under 5 years old.

External use for arthritis, flu, burns and nacíos (boils) is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use (OMS/WHO)6 documented in the TRAMIL surveys.

Limit traditional use only to superficial burns (skin injury) that are not extensive (covering less than 10% of body surface) and are located away from high risk areas such as face, hands, feet and genitals.

For topical application, strict hygiene measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should boils persist for more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

The fruit (seed, mesoderm) and the juice (water) of Cocos nucifera is widely used for human consumption.

TRAMIL Research31

For asthma:

Drink 15-30 mL (1-2 spoonfuls) of coconut oil 2-3 times a day.

For urinary ailments:

Drink 250 mL (1 cup) of coconut water 4-6 times a day31.

For arthritis, nacíos (boils), flu and burns:

There is no available information establishing a means of preparation and dosage other than that referred to by traditional use.

1 GERMOSEN-ROBINEAU L, GERONIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

2 LAGOS-WITTE S, 1988-89, 1996
Encuesta TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Histología Vegetal y Etnobotánica, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

3 AKER CH, GARMENDIA M, DEVES R, FERNANDEZ P, FRITHZ E, HERNANDEZ M, SIMEON A, 2003
Encuesta TRAMIL-GEF Bosawas. Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua UNAN-León, León, Nicaragua.

4 CHARLES C, 1988
TRAMIL survey. Movement for Cultural Awareness MCA, Roseau, Dominica.

5 GIRON L, 1988
Encuesta TRAMIL (Costa atlántica). Centro Mesoamericano de Tecnología CEMAT, Guatemala, Guatemala.

6 BALLAND V, GLASGOW A, SPRINGER F, GAYMES G, 2004
TRAMIL survey. enda-caribbean, IICA, UAG & U.PARIS XI, Saint Vincent.

7 MOURA FE JA, BROWN WH, WHITING FM, STULL JW, 1975
Unsaponifiable matter of crude and processed coconut oil. J Sci Food Agr 26(4):523-531.

8 PARIS R, MOYSE H, 1981
Précis de matière médicale. Paris, France: Ed. Maloine.

9 SAITTAGAROON S, KAWAKISHI S, NAMIKI M, 1985
Generation of mannitol from copra meal. J Food Sci 50(3):757-760.

10 TAKEUCHI K, 1961
Amino acids in the endosperm of some Amazonian Palmae. Chiba Daigaku Buurii Gakuba Kiyo Shizen Kagaku 3:321-325.

11 JANSZ BR, JEYARAJ EE, PIERIS N, ABEYRATNE DJ, 1974
Cyanide liberation from linamarin. J Natl Sci Counc Sri Lanka 2:57-65.

12 KINDERLERER JL, KELLARD B, 1987
Alkylpyrazines produced by bacterial spoilage of heat-treated and gamma-irradiated coconut. Chem Ind (London) 16:567-568.

13 MANNAN A, AHMAD K, 1966
Studies on vitamin E in foods of East Pakistan. Pak J Biol Agr Sci 9:13.

14 DUKE JA, ATCHLEY AA, 1986
Handbook of proximate analysis tables of higher plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press. p47.

15 CAMBAR P, ALGER J, 1989
Efectos broncopulmonares del aceite de coco en conejos. Informe TRAMIL. Unidad de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Medicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

16 BOUCOURT E, MARTINEZ M J, MOREJON Z, 2010
Evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana del agua de fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera L. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, C. Habana, Cuba.

17 BOUCOURT E, MARTINEZ M J, MOREJON Z, 2010
Evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana de la pulpa tierna del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera L. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, C. Habana, Cuba.

18 OLMEDO D, RODRIGUEZ N, ESPINOSA A, VASQUEZ Y, Gupta MP, 2005
Ensayo antimicrobiano de algunas especies con usos significativos TRAMIL-Centroamérica. Informe TRAMIL. Centro de Investigaciones Farmacognósticas de la Flora Panameña CIFLORPAN, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá.

19 GarcIa-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Velocidad del tránsito intestinal en ratones, del extracto acuoso del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

20 PAZOS L, COTO T, REYES L, 2007
Antiinflamatorio tópico, en ratones, del aceite del fruto de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL, Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

21 CACERES A, GIRON LM, ALVARADO SR, TORRES MF, 1987
Screening of antimicrobial activity of plants popularly used in Guatemala for the treatment of dermatomucosal diseases. J Ethnopharmacol 20(3):223-237.

22 VENKATARAMAN S, RAMANUJAN T, VENKATASUBBU V, 1980
Antifungal activity of the alcoholic extract of coconut shell Cocos nucifera L. J Ethnopharmacol 2(3):291-293.

23 JAIN SK, AGRAWAL SC, 1992
Sporostatic effect of some oils against fungi causing otomycosis. Indian J Med Sci 46(1):1-6.

24 CACERES A, GIRON LM, MARTINEZ AM, 1987
Diuretic activity of plants used for the treatments of urinary ailments in Guatemala. J Ethnopharmacol 19(3):233-245.

25 RODRÍGUEZ M, SÁNCHEZ C, 1982
Diuresis del agua de pipa (Cocos nucifera) en ratas. Rev Méd Panamá 7(3):186-19l.

26 KETUSINH O, 1954
Risks associate with intravenous infusion of coconut juice. J Med Ass Thailand 37(5):249-271.

27 MORTON J, 1981
Atlas of medicinal plants of Middle America. Springfield, USA: III: Charles C. Thomas Publisher.

28 BOOTH AN, BICKOFF EM, KOHLER GO, 1960
Estrogen-like activity in vegetable oils and mill by-products. Science 131:1807-1808.

29 GARCIA-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Toxicidad aguda dosis repetida, en ratones, del extracto acuoso del aceite del fruto de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

30 GARCIA-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Toxicidad aguda (5000 mg/kg) dosis repetida, en ratones, del extracto acuoso (decocción) del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

31 PAZOS L, COTO T, GONZALEZ S, 2006
Toxicidad oral subcrónica, dosis repetida, en ratón, de aceite del fruto fresco de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

32 PAZOS L, COTO T, GONZALEZ S, 2006
Irritabilidad dérmica, piel lesionada en conejos, del aceite del fruto puro de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

33 SALERNO JW, SMITH DE, 1991
The use of sesame oil and other vegetable oils in the inhibiting of human colon cancer growth in vitro. Anticancer Res 11(1):209-215.

34 LOCNISKAR M, BELURY MA, CUMBERLAND AG, PATRICK KE, FISCHER SM, 1991
The effect of dietary lipid on skin tumor promotion by benzoyl peroxide, comparison of fish, coconut and corn oil. Carcinogenesis 12(6):1023-1028.

35 BERTON TR, FISCHER SM, CONTI CJ, LOCNISKAR MF, 1996
Comparison of ultraviolet light-induced skin carcinogenesis and ornithine decarboxylase activity in sencar and hairless SKH-1 mice fed a constant level of dietary lipid varying in corn and coconut oil. Nutr Cancer 26(3):353-363.

36 CHINDAVANIG A, 1971
Effect of vegetable oils in plasma cholesterol in man and dog. Master Thesis, Dept. Biochemistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.

37 CARBALLO A, 1995
Cálculo de concentración y dosis de las drogas vegetales TRAMIL: Mensuraciones farmacognósticas y aproximaciones técnico-clínicas. Laboratorio Provincial de Producción de Medicamentos, Sancti Spiritus, Cuba.

Cocos nucifera

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Nicaragua:

  • 'kukus

Dominica:

  • coco-tree
  • coconut tree

St Vincent and Grenadines:

  • coco-tree
  • coconut tree

Guatemala:

  • cocotero

Honduras:

  • cocotero

Dominican Republic:

  • cocotero
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

fruit oil, cataplasm

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to available information:

Use for asthma, asthenia and weakness is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, and on available published scientific information.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should asthma last more than 2 days, seek medical attention.

There is no information available on this resource for asthmatic crisis.

Use for urinary infections is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, and on available published scientific information.

Due to the health risks involved with asthma, urinary infection or renal stones, an initial medical evaluation is recommended.  The use of this resource can be considered complementary to medical treatment, unless it is contraindicated.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should urinary infection symptoms last more than 3 days, seek medical attention.

Not for use as an orally administered medicine during pregnancy, during lactation or by children under 5 years old.

External use for arthritis, flu, burns and nacíos (boils) is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use (OMS/WHO)6 documented in the TRAMIL surveys.

Limit traditional use only to superficial burns (skin injury) that are not extensive (covering less than 10% of body surface) and are located away from high risk areas such as face, hands, feet and genitals.

For topical application, strict hygiene measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should boils persist for more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

The fruit (seed, mesoderm) and the juice (water) of Cocos nucifera is widely used for human consumption.

TRAMIL Research31

For asthma:

Drink 15-30 mL (1-2 spoonfuls) of coconut oil 2-3 times a day.

For urinary ailments:

Drink 250 mL (1 cup) of coconut water 4-6 times a day31.

For arthritis, nacíos (boils), flu and burns:

There is no available information establishing a means of preparation and dosage other than that referred to by traditional use.

1 GERMOSEN-ROBINEAU L, GERONIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

2 LAGOS-WITTE S, 1988-89, 1996
Encuesta TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Histología Vegetal y Etnobotánica, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

3 AKER CH, GARMENDIA M, DEVES R, FERNANDEZ P, FRITHZ E, HERNANDEZ M, SIMEON A, 2003
Encuesta TRAMIL-GEF Bosawas. Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua UNAN-León, León, Nicaragua.

4 CHARLES C, 1988
TRAMIL survey. Movement for Cultural Awareness MCA, Roseau, Dominica.

5 GIRON L, 1988
Encuesta TRAMIL (Costa atlántica). Centro Mesoamericano de Tecnología CEMAT, Guatemala, Guatemala.

6 BALLAND V, GLASGOW A, SPRINGER F, GAYMES G, 2004
TRAMIL survey. enda-caribbean, IICA, UAG & U.PARIS XI, Saint Vincent.

7 MOURA FE JA, BROWN WH, WHITING FM, STULL JW, 1975
Unsaponifiable matter of crude and processed coconut oil. J Sci Food Agr 26(4):523-531.

8 PARIS R, MOYSE H, 1981
Précis de matière médicale. Paris, France: Ed. Maloine.

9 SAITTAGAROON S, KAWAKISHI S, NAMIKI M, 1985
Generation of mannitol from copra meal. J Food Sci 50(3):757-760.

10 TAKEUCHI K, 1961
Amino acids in the endosperm of some Amazonian Palmae. Chiba Daigaku Buurii Gakuba Kiyo Shizen Kagaku 3:321-325.

11 JANSZ BR, JEYARAJ EE, PIERIS N, ABEYRATNE DJ, 1974
Cyanide liberation from linamarin. J Natl Sci Counc Sri Lanka 2:57-65.

12 KINDERLERER JL, KELLARD B, 1987
Alkylpyrazines produced by bacterial spoilage of heat-treated and gamma-irradiated coconut. Chem Ind (London) 16:567-568.

13 MANNAN A, AHMAD K, 1966
Studies on vitamin E in foods of East Pakistan. Pak J Biol Agr Sci 9:13.

14 DUKE JA, ATCHLEY AA, 1986
Handbook of proximate analysis tables of higher plants. Boca Raton, USA: CRC Press. p47.

15 CAMBAR P, ALGER J, 1989
Efectos broncopulmonares del aceite de coco en conejos. Informe TRAMIL. Unidad de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Medicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

16 BOUCOURT E, MARTINEZ M J, MOREJON Z, 2010
Evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana del agua de fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera L. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, C. Habana, Cuba.

17 BOUCOURT E, MARTINEZ M J, MOREJON Z, 2010
Evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana de la pulpa tierna del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera L. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio Central de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Dr. Salvador Allende”, C. Habana, Cuba.

18 OLMEDO D, RODRIGUEZ N, ESPINOSA A, VASQUEZ Y, Gupta MP, 2005
Ensayo antimicrobiano de algunas especies con usos significativos TRAMIL-Centroamérica. Informe TRAMIL. Centro de Investigaciones Farmacognósticas de la Flora Panameña CIFLORPAN, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá.

19 GarcIa-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Velocidad del tránsito intestinal en ratones, del extracto acuoso del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

20 PAZOS L, COTO T, REYES L, 2007
Antiinflamatorio tópico, en ratones, del aceite del fruto de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL, Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

21 CACERES A, GIRON LM, ALVARADO SR, TORRES MF, 1987
Screening of antimicrobial activity of plants popularly used in Guatemala for the treatment of dermatomucosal diseases. J Ethnopharmacol 20(3):223-237.

22 VENKATARAMAN S, RAMANUJAN T, VENKATASUBBU V, 1980
Antifungal activity of the alcoholic extract of coconut shell Cocos nucifera L. J Ethnopharmacol 2(3):291-293.

23 JAIN SK, AGRAWAL SC, 1992
Sporostatic effect of some oils against fungi causing otomycosis. Indian J Med Sci 46(1):1-6.

24 CACERES A, GIRON LM, MARTINEZ AM, 1987
Diuretic activity of plants used for the treatments of urinary ailments in Guatemala. J Ethnopharmacol 19(3):233-245.

25 RODRÍGUEZ M, SÁNCHEZ C, 1982
Diuresis del agua de pipa (Cocos nucifera) en ratas. Rev Méd Panamá 7(3):186-19l.

26 KETUSINH O, 1954
Risks associate with intravenous infusion of coconut juice. J Med Ass Thailand 37(5):249-271.

27 MORTON J, 1981
Atlas of medicinal plants of Middle America. Springfield, USA: III: Charles C. Thomas Publisher.

28 BOOTH AN, BICKOFF EM, KOHLER GO, 1960
Estrogen-like activity in vegetable oils and mill by-products. Science 131:1807-1808.

29 GARCIA-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Toxicidad aguda dosis repetida, en ratones, del extracto acuoso del aceite del fruto de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

30 GARCIA-GONZÁLEZ M, BARBOZA CJ, 2005
Toxicidad aguda (5000 mg/kg) dosis repetida, en ratones, del extracto acuoso (decocción) del fruto fresco de Cocos nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. PRONAPLAMED. Depto de Fisiología, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

31 PAZOS L, COTO T, GONZALEZ S, 2006
Toxicidad oral subcrónica, dosis repetida, en ratón, de aceite del fruto fresco de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

32 PAZOS L, COTO T, GONZALEZ S, 2006
Irritabilidad dérmica, piel lesionada en conejos, del aceite del fruto puro de Cocus nucifera. Informe TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Ensayos Biológicos, LEBi, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica.

33 SALERNO JW, SMITH DE, 1991
The use of sesame oil and other vegetable oils in the inhibiting of human colon cancer growth in vitro. Anticancer Res 11(1):209-215.

34 LOCNISKAR M, BELURY MA, CUMBERLAND AG, PATRICK KE, FISCHER SM, 1991
The effect of dietary lipid on skin tumor promotion by benzoyl peroxide, comparison of fish, coconut and corn oil. Carcinogenesis 12(6):1023-1028.

35 BERTON TR, FISCHER SM, CONTI CJ, LOCNISKAR MF, 1996
Comparison of ultraviolet light-induced skin carcinogenesis and ornithine decarboxylase activity in sencar and hairless SKH-1 mice fed a constant level of dietary lipid varying in corn and coconut oil. Nutr Cancer 26(3):353-363.

36 CHINDAVANIG A, 1971
Effect of vegetable oils in plasma cholesterol in man and dog. Master Thesis, Dept. Biochemistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.

37 CARBALLO A, 1995
Cálculo de concentración y dosis de las drogas vegetales TRAMIL: Mensuraciones farmacognósticas y aproximaciones técnico-clínicas. Laboratorio Provincial de Producción de Medicamentos, Sancti Spiritus, Cuba.

Momordica charantia

(In territories with significant traditional TRAMIL use)

Haiti:

  • asorosi

Honduras:

  • calaica

Barbados:

  • cerasee

Trinidad and Tobago:

  • corailee
  • popololo
  • sorrow seed

Venezuela:

  • cundeamor

Puerto Rico:

  • cundeamor

Dominican Republic:

  • cundeamor

Dominica:

  • kokouli

Antigua and Barbuda:

  • maiden blush

Costa Rica:

  • sorosí

Guatemala:

  • sorosí
Significant uses found by the TRAMIL surveys

  aerial parts, crushed, bath5

Recommendations Preparation and Dosage References

According to published and other information:

Use for furuncles and common cold is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use documented in the TRAMIL surveys, toxicity studies and available published scientific information.

Use for dry skin conditions, itching, lice (pediculosis) and burns is classified as REC, based on the significant traditional use (OMS/WHO)4 documented in the TRAMIL surveys.

For topical application, strict hygienic measures should be observed in order to avoid contamination or additional infection.

Should there be a notable worsening of the patient’s condition, or should furuncles last more than 5 days, seek medical attention.

Do not take orally during pregnancy due to risk of abortion.

Not for use during lactation or by children under 3 years old.

For skin conditions:

Wash the aerial parts of the plant thoroughly and crush them.  Apply 30 grams (a handful) of vegetal material on the affected area of skin 3 times a day.

For common cold:

There is no available information establishing a means of preparation and dosage other than that referred to by traditional use.

1 CHARLES C, 1988
TRAMIL survey. Movement for Cultural Awareness MCA, Roseau, Dominica.

2 WENIGER B, ROUZIER M, 1986
Enquête TRAMIL. Service Oecuménique d'Entraide SOE, Port au Prince, Haïti.

3 LAGOS-WITTE S, 1988-1995
Encuestas TRAMIL. Laboratorio de Histología Vegetal y Etnobotánica, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras UNAH, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

4 GERMOSEN-ROBINEAU L, GERONIMO M, AMPARO C, 1984
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

5 WENIGER B, 1987-88
Encuesta TRAMIL. enda-caribe, Santo Domingo, Rep. Dominicana.

6 CASTILLO D, RODRIGUEZ S, DE LOS SANTOS C, BELEN A, 2003
Encuesta TRAMIL (Zambrana, Cotuí). Dep. de Botánica, Jardín Botánico Nacional, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana.

7 CASTILLO D, RODRIGUEZ S, DE LOS SANTOS C, BELEN A, 2003
Encuesta TRAMIL (region Este). Dep. de Botánica, Jardín Botánico Nacional, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana.

8 DELENS M, 1990
Encuesta TRAMIL en Barlovento, Edo. Miranda de Venezuela. Centro al Servicio de la Acción Popular CESAP, Caracas, Venezuela.

9 GIRON L, 1988
Encuesta TRAMIL (Costa atlántica). Centro Mesoamericano de Tecnología CEMAT, Guatemala.

10 DELAIGUE J, 2005
TRAMIL survey. UAG & PRDI, Tobago House of Assembly, Scarborough, Tobago.

11 O'REILLY A, 1992
TRAMIL survey. Chemistry & Food Technology Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Dunbars, Antigua & Barbuda.

12 OCAMPO R, 1988
Encuesta TRAMIL (Costa atlántica), Instituto de Desarrollo Agrario, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.

13 FAUJOUR A, MURREY D, CHELTENHAM-CORBIN B, CARRINGTON S, 2003
TRAMIL survey. IICA & UAG, Saint Thomas, Barbados.

14 BENEDETTI MD, 1994
Encuesta TRAMIL. Universidad de Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico.

15 WENIGER B, SAVARY H, DAGUIHL R, 1984
Tri phytochimique de plantes de la liste TRAMIL. Laboratoire de chimie des substances naturelles, Faculté de médecine et de pharmacie, Université d'Etat d'Haïti, Port au Prince, Haïti.

16 HERRERA J, 1990
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30 GONZALEZ A, ALFONSO H, 1990
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31 GONZALEZ A, ALFONSO H, 1990
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37 UCHE-NWACHI EO, MC EWEN C, 2010
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39 KOENTJORO-SOEHADI T, SANTA I, 1982
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40 KHAN AH, BURNEY A, 1962
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41 WEST M, SIDRAK G, STREET S, 1971
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42 NG T, 1988
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43 YEUNG HW, LI WW, FENG Z, BARBIERI L, STIRPE F, 1988
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