Sebesten plum

Cordia myxa

Traditionally attributed effects: fruit soothing, expectorant, diuretic, mildly laxative; bark mildly astringent and tonic; for cough and chest diseases, bile complaints, abdominal cramps, indigestion, fever, ulcers, snake bites.

Safety notes

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

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; syrup 14–28 ml; bark tea as a gargle; kernels with oil on ringworm.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Sleshmataka. The slimy little fruits (lasora) are pickled in northern India. In Unani medicine, as sapistan, they are a classic soothing remedy for cough and sore throat. The sticky pulp was used as glue.

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

Fruit soothing, expectorant, diuretic, mildly laxative; bark mildly astringent and tonic; for cough and chest diseases, bile complaints, abdominal cramps, indigestion, fever, ulcers, snake bites.

Preparation and amount

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; syrup 14–28 ml; bark tea as a gargle; kernels with oil on ringworm.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Syrup, honey and oxymel

Sources

All herbs from Asia →