{"id":11675,"date":"2024-04-07T17:13:56","date_gmt":"2024-04-07T16:13:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=11675"},"modified":"2025-07-03T08:45:40","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T07:45:40","slug":"jamaican-dogwood","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/jamaican-dogwood\/","title":{"rendered":"Jamaican dogwood"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":11676,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"c828006c-3065-4c01-b4ca-151e7674ee19","beyondwords_preview_token":"7a27cc29-fd97-4d42-b299-bff6d8386556","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[],"conditions":[685,699,696,695],"sustainability":[1575],"sense":[17,31,18,786,30,27],"western_action":[1001,990,992,996,997,998,1003,1017,1018,1019],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-11675","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-musculoskeletal-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-respiratory-system","sustainability-amber-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-bitter","sense-cooling","sense-sharp","sense-sweet","western_action-bitter","western_action-analgesic","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antirheumatic","western_action-antispasmodic","western_action-antitussive","western_action-carminatives","western_action-nervine","western_action-relaxant","western_action-sedative","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20240407","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Jamaican dogwood is an analgesic and sedative herb","latin_name":"Piscidia piscipula \/ P. erythrina<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Fabaceae","herb_summary":"Jamaican Dogwood is useful for neuralgic pain, migraine headaches and insomnia caused by pain or nervous tension.","key_benefits":"Analgesic\/anodyne\r\nSedative\/ Hypnotic\r\nAnti-spasmodic\r\nNeuralgia\r\nMigraine\r\nInsomnia","how_does_it_feel":"The smell of Jamaican dogwood is difficult to describe, with a slight sweetness, but notes that are chemical-like, described in the traditional pharmacopoeias as \u201copium-like\u201d. Although it does not contain any opium-related constituents, this fragrance could relate to the narcotic and hypnotic properties. Jamaican dogwood is quite fragrant and sweet in flavour, but then bitter, acrid, sharp and slightly aromatic. The aftertaste is somewhat sour and produces a slight tingling and burning sensation in the mouth. The <\/span>sour<\/span><\/a> taste is associated with the <\/span>cooling<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>sedative<\/span><\/a> action (1). It is the sour, slightly acidic taste that accounts for the mild burning sensation which can be experienced in the mouth after tasting Jamaican dogwood. The acrid taste indicates the relaxant and antispasmodic properties (1). The <\/span>antispasmodic<\/span><\/a> action has been linked to the isoflavone constituents (2). The aromatic and fragrant bitterness indicates several different actions, but in this case links to calming and <\/span>relaxing<\/span><\/a> effects. A soporific sensation sweeps over the body quickly after taking Jamaican dogwood, as the aromatic compounds directly calm the nervous system.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe key actions of Jamaican dogwood are: <\/span>analgesic<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>antispasmodic<\/span><\/a>, narcotic, <\/span>sedative<\/span><\/a>, soporific, hypnotic.<\/span>","hdif_image_1":11676,"hdif_image_2":11677,"hdif_image_3":11676,"hdif_video":"","sense":[17,31,18,786,30,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"Jamaican dogwood is a mild narcotic and analgesic herb which is used primarily for pain relief (3). It is particularly effective if the pain stems from the nervous system, such as in cases of migraine headaches, toothache, sciatica and other neuralgic pain (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe sedative action makes it a potent remedy for insomnia, especially if the sleep disturbance is caused by pain, nervous tension or stress (3, 5). Jamaican Dogwood is a potent relaxant on the nervous system and mildly hypnotic in action.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe antispasmodic action makes Jamaican dogwood suited to dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and the anti-inflammatory actions suit musculoskeletal pain such as rheumatism and <\/span>arthritis<\/span><\/a> (3).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to potential toxicity, and a restriction on dosage applied by some professional herbal institutes, Jamaican dogwood is best used for short-term relief of symptoms. For this reason it is advisable to work with a qualified herbalist to identify the cause of an ailment and determine the suitability of Jamaican dogwood as a treatment.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe narcotic, analgesic, sedative, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties of Jamaican dogwood have only been scientifically evidenced in pre-clinical, animal studies. Although the toxicity is reported to be low in animal studies (6), there is a lack of direct investigation into the toxicity in human trials. Therefore, there is an absence\u00a0 of clinical studies to support the use of Jamaican dogwood, or assess the efficacy and safety of this herb for general use. It is advisable to work with a qualified practitioner before using Jamaican dogwood.\u00a0<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"Energetically Jamaican dogwood is considered to be cooling and relaxing (3). A cooling action is required when there is an excess of heat in the body from over-excitement or irritation (1). This state often stems from the nervous system, and presents as nervous over-excitement, restlessness, irritation, and a heightened sensitivity to pain (1).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nA relaxing action is suited to constricted and tense states, which result from prolonged overstimulation of the neuromuscular system (1). This prolonged tension in the system can lead to muscle tension, headaches, muscle aches, and digestive tension causing cramps, trapped wind, constipation or diarrhoea.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe combination of the cooling and relaxing energetics of Jamaican Dogwood makes it suited to conditions of nervous system excitability and tension. These states are seen in both acute anxiety, and the ailments that manifest from a period of prolonged stress.\u00a0<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"[caption id=\"attachment_11677\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"450\"]\"Jamaican Jamaican Dogwood flowers (Piscidia piscipula (L.) Sarg. (syn. P. erythrina L.)<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nDue to a lack of contemporary research into Jamaican dogwood, much of the modern day knowledge, uses and indications are still based on the original pharmacopoeias from the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. The specific indications listed in King\u2019s American Dispensary (1898) were: \u201cinsomnia and nervous unrest; to allay spasm, control pain and allay nervous excitability; migraine; neuralgia\u201d (7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe narcotic, analgesic, and soporific properties of <\/span>Jamaican Dogwood <\/span>were identified in 1844 (8). Its chief use was for pain and to produce sleep, and was recommended as a replacement for opium (7). The British Pharmaceutical Codex (BPC, 1911) recommended Jamaican dogwood as a narcotic that does not have the side effects of constipation or headaches (9). In 1919, Ellingwood reported that although it lacks the same power as opium, it operates as a desirable analgesic (10). He stated that it was especially useful in cases where the patient could not take opium or morphine, and does not produce toxic or undesirable effects in medicinal doses (10). It was used as an analgesic for pain of all kinds, including toothache, migraine headaches and neuralgia, particularly sciatica and facial neuralgia (8,10). In 1953, Auxence wrote \u201cThe bark and wood of the root and stem of this West Indian tree have long been used by the natives of the Antilles as an analgesic\u201d (11).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn 1915, Wren listed Jamaican dogwood to be used for its antispasmodic action, to control asthma, whooping cough, chronic bronchitis and a \u201cconsumptive cough\u201d (12). The properties of Jamaican Dogwood were used to promote a restful sleep, and to support cases of nervous debility (8). <\/span>Jamaican dogwood<\/span> was a favourite remedy, recommended instead of opiates, for prolonged insomnia \u201c<\/span>particularly in the aged, and in those of an excessively nervous temperament<\/span><\/i>\u201d (7). Ellingwood extended this recommendation to when insomnia was due to nervous excitement, mental worry or anxiety, neurasthenia (fatigue causing physical and mental exhaustion, similar to chronic fatigue syndrome), and children (10).<\/span>\r\n\r\nGrieve (8) states use for dysmenorrhea, and in 1915, Wren (12) stated that <\/span>Jamaican dogwood<\/span> combines well with black haw (<\/span>Viburnum prunifolium<\/span><\/i>) for \u201cfemale complaints\u201d. Felter echoed this, stating that \u201cin the disorders of women it has rendered excellent service in alleviating neuralgic and other forms of dysmenorrhoea and in various pelvic neuroses. With viburnum, it has been administered to check false labour-pains and threatened abortion and hysterical convulsions\u201d (7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAt low doses side effects of <\/span>Jamaican dogwood<\/span> were reported to include nausea, vomiting, headaches, excess salivation, perspiration, bradycardia (7). It was known to produce toxic and unpleasant side effects and gastric distress if taken in excess (8, 12). Overdose of <\/span>Jamaican dogwood <\/span>would cause shortness of breath (dyspnoea),\u00a0 tetanic spasm, convulsions and eventual death by heart failure or asphyxiation from respiratory paralysis (10).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe recommended dosages for internal use were 10\u201320 drops of a fluid extract (1:1 strength tincture) every 2\u20133 hours (7). In 1919, Ellingwood stated that the dose needed to be repeated to be effective (10). Direct, local application of <\/span>Jamaican dogwood <\/span>was recommended for toothache, infections in the mouth and haemorrhoids (7).\u00a0<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"[caption id=\"attachment_11676\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"450\"]\"Jamaican Jamaican Dogwood (Piscidia piscipula (L.) Sarg. (syn. P. erythrina L.<\/em>))[\/caption]\r\n

Nervous system<\/h3>\r\n

Pain<\/h4>\r\nPhysical pain is not a disease or illness, but almost always a symptom of an imbalance in at least one area of the body (13). A truly holistic herbal practitioner will seek to determine the root cause of an ailment rather than focussing on the isolated symptoms (4). However, it may be necessary to relieve suffering in painful conditions, since the pain may have been the main motivator for someone seeking a medical support (13). Jamaican Dogwood has analgesic action, making it suited to relieve acute and chronic painful conditions. Herbs aimed at relieving pain should be used in combination with other herbs as part of a whole treatment plan, focussing on the root cause of the painful condition (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Headaches<\/h4>\r\nHeadaches can stem from many causes which can be psychological or physical, including: stress; anxiety; lack of sleep; postural issues; muscle tension; eye strain; digestive problems; diet; hydration; hormonal fluctuations; allergies; or have environmental origins (4, 14, 15). A herbalist will work with a patient to determine the cause of the headache, however, Jamaican Dogwood is a useful herb to add to a herbal prescription to relieve symptoms while the root cause is being treated. Headaches are usually acute and short term, so a herbalist may provide a separate medicine to use in cases of a headache attack, as opposed to including in a daily formula. Jamaican Dogwood is particularly effective for relief from a migraine headache, and combines well with feverfew, wood betony, and ginger. A recent systematic review in 2020 (15) exploring herbal treatments for migraine did not identify the Jamaican dogwood within their findings because there are no human randomised controlled trials that have been carried out. However, the study identified feverfew, butterbur, curcumin, <\/span>coriander<\/span><\/a>, menthol and <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a> to be efficacious (15). These herbs provide a sensible alternative to Jamaican dogwood for cases of migraine headache.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Neuralgia<\/h4>\r\nNeuralgia (nerve pain) can be caused by a degeneration of the nerve pathway (multiple sclerosis), viral infection (shingles) or a musculoskeletal impingement on the nerve (sciatica). Regardless of the cause, analgesic herbs such as Jamaican dogwood can provide acute, short-term relief. In order to heal neuralgia in the long term, the cause of the pain will need to be addressed and treated. For example, Jamaican dogwood can be included in a formula to treat shingles and provide pain relief, but will need to be combined with herbs to strengthen the nervous system and support the immune system (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Insomnia<\/h4>\r\nJamaican dogwood is a very helpful herb to induce sleep and relieve insomnia. This sleep-support should not replace the need to address the underlying cause of the sleep disturbance. However, in the short term it may be necessary to aid sleep in order to reset the sleep cycle and support the body when other ailments are causing sleep deprivation. Jamaican dogwood is particularly helpful when pain is interfering with sleep. The mild hypnotic action of Jamaican dogwood combines well with other gentle nervines such as <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>limeflower<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>hops<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>valerian<\/span><\/a> to support a restful sleep, particularly when pain is interfering with a restful night (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Anxiety<\/h4>\r\nSedative action of Jamaican dogwood can also help with acute anxiety or to calm the nervous system when an individual is experiencing long term anxiety. Jamaican dogwood can be taken acutely to abate a panic attack, and combines well with <\/span>passionflower<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>motherwort<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>lemon balm<\/span><\/a> in this case.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Musculoskeletal<\/h3>\r\nJamaican dogwood is both analgesic and anti-inflammatory, which can reduce painful conditions such as arthritis, but will only be effective when combined with measures to address the root cause of the <\/span>arthritis<\/span><\/a> (4). Similarly, headaches may be rooted in muscular tension or postural problems, which Jamaican dogwood can relieve in the short term but the underlying cause will need to be addressed.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/h3>\r\nThe analgesic and antispasmodic actions of Jamaican dogwood can help to alleviate the acute symptoms spasm and pain in the gastro-intestinal tract. As with all the conditions outlined, the cause of pain and spasm needs to be explored and remedied, rather than repeatedly relieving the symptoms. Headaches can often stem from the diet or an issue in the digestive system, meaning Jamaican Dogwood may be indicted to relieve a stomach-related headache in the short term, while the digestive cause is being treated.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Reproductive system<\/h3>\r\nThe antispasmodic and analgesic actions of Jamaican dogwood make it suited to dysmenorrhea (8). In such cases Jamaican dogwood combines well with <\/span>valerian<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>cramp bark<\/span><\/a> for acute relief. Menstrual cramps and menstrual headaches are likely to be rooted in a hormonal cause, which will need to be treated to correct the imbalance (4). However, this can take several months of treatment, and in the short term Jamaican dogwood can acutely provide relief to the symptoms.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Respiratory<\/h3>\r\nJamaican dogwood is useful as an antispasmodic for violent <\/span>coughs<\/span><\/a>, or the persistent coughs that can result from bronchitis (16). Asthmatic wheezing, and spasming coughs which are tight, breathless and non-productive can often stem from the nervous system (14). Other herbs to consider for a spasming coughs include wild cherry bark or <\/span>hyssop<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>elecampane<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>","research":"Very little research has been carried out on Jamaican dogwood, with no human clinical trials existing in the literature. The indications and current knowledge of the herbal usage is based on the original pharmacopeia\u2019s from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nEarly research using animal models identified Jamaican Dogwood to have a depressant and antispasmodic action in uterine tissue in vitro and in vivo (6<\/span>). More recently, an a<\/span>nimal study using mice has demonstrated both anxiolytic and sedative activity (17). The antispasmodic activity of Jamaican dogwood has been attributable to the isoflavone constituents (2).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe evidence for toxicity is limited to data from animal studies. One study orally administered rats very high doses of Jamaican dogwood extract (90g\/kg) with no toxic effects (6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nA review article in 2005 evaluated the evidence for the safety and efficacy of non-prescription therapies for insomnia, including Jamaican dogwood (18). The paper concluded that Jamaican dogwood demonstrated sedative effects in animal studies, but there is no clinical or scientific studies verifying this effect in humans.\u00a0<\/span>","did_you_know":"Some of the constituents on Jamaican dogwood are toxic to fish, and it is used extensively throughout Central and South America as a fish poison (5). Pounded leaves and branches are dropped into the water which stupefies the fish and eases the catch (8). <\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":11678},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Jamaican dogwood is a perennial, deciduous, medium to large (25\u201341 feet\/ 12\u201315m), non-climbing tree (21). The trunk expands to three feet in diameter, the crown is irregular and composed of many erect or irregularly-shaped branches (22). The leaves are compound, with unequally pinnate, oval leaflets (7). The leaves are dark green coloured on the top of the leaf and pale underneath (22). Flowers appear in spring, which are white, pink and lavender coloured have a broad, bell-shaped, five-toothed calyx (7). The fruit is light brown, bean-like pods with four papery wings, in the autumn (22).","common_names":"