This large, green-leafed plant is also called monkey’s hand due to its finger-like fruit spikes. These fruits are important to bat and bird species in its native Central America.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Southeast Asia, South Pacific Islands, Africa, Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean, Florida
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Antispasmodic, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, analgesic, antioxidant, anti-aging, febrifuge, antiparasitic, and used to treat kidney infections, diarrhea, skin conditions, burns, rheumatism, earache, poor lactation
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For skin conditions and burns, apply the juice from the leaves directly to the skin. You may also wrap the affected area with a leaf. For earaches, squeeze the juice from the leaves directly into the ear. For all other conditions, boil a handful of roots and leaves in 1 gallon water for 30 minutes. Steep at least an hour or overnight, and then strain. Drink up to
1 cup per day.
