Aspidosperma subincanum

Aspidosperma subincanum, commonly known as catuaba do Mato, is a valuable medicinal tree in the Amazon and Cerrado. Among the Pataxó of Bahia, the bark is boiled in water to treat stomach pain, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps (Silva et al., 2018). The Xavante of Mato Grosso prepare a decoction of the bark for fever, malaria, and general malaise, and they also apply a poultice of fresh bark to cuts and bruises to promote healing (Souza et al., 2019). The Guarani of Paraguay use a maceration of the leaves in alcohol to make a tonic for fatigue, as an aphrodisiac, and as a mild sedative (Gomes et al., 2020). In all three cultures, the bark is the most frequently cited part, but leaves and roots are also used in smaller quantities for skin infections and as a mild analgesic. These traditional preparations illustrate a broad spectrum of therapeutic intentions, from digestive support to anti‑infective and wound‑healing applications.

A simple decoction for stomach discomfort uses 5 g of dried bark in 250 ml of boiling water. Simmer for 10 minutes, strain, and drink one cup. For a tincture, steep 10 g of bark in 100 ml of 70 % ethanol for four weeks, strain, and use 1–2 ml twice daily. Pregnant women and individuals with liver disease should avoid the tincture, and the decoction should not exceed two cups per day. If using fresh bark, wash thoroughly to remove any surface dust, and consider adding a pinch of ginger or cinnamon to improve palatability and enhance digestive benefits.

Phytochemical studies have identified a range of indole alkaloids, including aspidospermidine, catharanthine, and ajmalicine, as well as flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, and phenolic acids like gallic acid (Bastos et al., 2015). These compounds are known for their anti‑inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimalarial, and antispasmodic activities, which help explain the traditional uses for stomach pain, fever, and infections. The alkaloid catharanthine, in particular, has been shown to inhibit *Plasmodium falciparum* growth in vitro, while quercetin contributes to the antioxidant profile that supports wound healing. The presence of these bioactive molecules provides a chemical basis for the observed therapeutic effects in traditional medicine.

Recent laboratory work has highlighted the anticancer potential of the alkaloids from *Aspidosperma subincanum*, and commercial catuaba extracts are now marketed as natural supplements for vitality and sexual health. Traditional use continues in rural communities, and ethnobotanical documentation remains essential for preserving this knowledge. Ongoing research into the pharmacokinetics of these alkaloids may lead to new drug candidates, while sustainable harvesting practices are being promoted to protect forest ecosystems.

No general uses added yet. Help us by writing one.

No common names added yet.

No subspecies added yet.

No variety added yet.

No subvariety added yet.

No forms added yet.

No germination or propagation data was added yet.

No reference genome is available on NCBI yet. We are constantly monitoring for new data.

No known contributors. Be the first!

In private collections	0
In public collections	0

You need to be authenticated in order to add this taxon to a personal collection.