Quassia Wood/ Bitter Wood/ Hombre grande traditionally used as a digestive tonic

Quassia wood/ Bitter Wood, also known as Quassia amara, is a tropical tree native to South America and the Caribbean. The bark of the Quassia wood tree has been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine for its various potential benefits. Here are some potential benefits of Quassia wood (bark): Digestive Health: Quassia wood has been traditionally used as a digestive tonic due to its bitter properties. It is believed to stimulate digestive enzymes, promote healthy digestion, and soothe gastrointestinal discomforts such as indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Anti-Parasitic Properties: Quassia wood is known for its potential anti-parasitic properties. It contains natural compounds called quassinoids, which have been shown to have insecticidal and anti-parasitic properties. Quassia wood has been used traditionally to combat various types of parasitic infestations, including intestinal worms and head lice. Appetite Suppressant: Quassia wood has been used as an appetite suppressant due to its bitter taste, which is believed to help reduce food cravings and promote a feeling of fullness. This property may be helpful for weight management and as part of a healthy diet.

Dental Health: Quassia wood has been used in oral care products due to its potential anti-bacterial properties. It may help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which could potentially benefit oral health and help prevent conditions such as gum disease and bad breath. Skin Health: Quassia wood has been used in skincare products for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties. It may be used topically to soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce redness and itching, and promote healthy skin. Traditional Uses: In traditional herbal medicine, Quassia wood has been used for various other purposes, including as a febrifuge (to reduce fever), as a bitter tonic to stimulate appetite, as a vermifuge (to expel intestinal worms), and as a general tonic for overall health and well-being.

Hombre grande (Picrasma excelsa, Quassia amara L., quassia, cuassia mara, Jamaican quassia, amargo, bitter ash, bitter bark, bitter wood) has antifungal, antiulcer, antimalarial, anticancer, and insecticide properties. Hombre grande has been used in traditional medicine topically to treat measles and orally to treat constipation and diarrhea, intestinal parasite infections, and fever. It is used to stimulate the digestive tract and bile production, increase appetite, cleanse blood, and stimulate enzyme production. Hombre grande helps re-balance the flora in the digestive tract to support the immune system.

Origin: The Caribbean, Jamaica, Central and South America General commercial dose: One 450 mg capsule General dosage: One capsule three times daily (Traditionally this herb was made into a tincture because it is made from the bark of the plant. Grinders are used now to make a powder that can be taken in capsule form or in hot water.)