Herb · Asia
Rosary pea
Abrus precatorius
Traditionally attributed effects: seeds purgative, emetic, tonic, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac; leaf juice for sore throat and dry cough, purifies the blood; leaf paste for swellings and rheumatism; seed paste for sciatica and paralysis; eyewash.
Safety notes
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. The seeds are poisonous. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Ayurvedic materia medica: The seeds are poisonous. Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Preparation
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Gunja. The red-and-black seeds (gunja) were used in India as gold weights and strung into jewellery. They contain abrin, one of the most poisonous plant substances; a single chewed seed can be fatal. In Ayurveda they are used only externally after purification.
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
Seeds purgative, emetic, tonic, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac; leaf juice for sore throat and dry cough, purifies the blood; leaf paste for swellings and rheumatism; seed paste for sciatica and paralysis; eyewash.
Preparation and amount
Traditionally used forms: decoction, powder, oil, paste (partly external).
Caution: The seeds are poisonous. Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionCompress, poultice and pastePowder and kitchen