Apple of Sodom

Calotropis procera

Traditionally attributed effects: root bark for dysentery and elephantiasis; leaves for intermittent fever; milky sap irritant and laxative; flowers for colds, cough, asthma and indigestion.

Safety notes

Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.

Use in traditions

In Ayurveda (arka) and Unani medicine (aak or madar) the plant is counted among the semi-poisonous remedies that are used only after purification. In the Sahel and North Africa the milky sap is dabbed on warts and skin conditions and the leaves serve as a poultice for joint pain. The silky seed floss was used as stuffing. Sanskrit name: Arka.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Root bark for dysentery and elephantiasis; leaves for intermittent fever; milky sap irritant and laxative; flowers for colds, cough, asthma and indigestion.

Preparation and amount

Root bark paste externally; tincture of the leaves; powder of the flowers.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tincture Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Africa →