Medicinal Use of The Herb Condurango

Marsdenia Condurango (Gonolobus Condurango) Asclepiadaceae.

A native of the South American rain forest, the vine-like Condurango grips onto tree trunks, as it climbs in search of sunlight. In the Andes, its heart-shaped leaves are still used to treat snake bites. The greeny white, bell-shaped flowers grow in umbrella-like clusters, while its 1 Oem-long fruits resemble shuttles.

Parts used

Bark

Collected during spring and early summer or during autumn, the bark is dried, and then either broken or cut into fragments, or crushed to make a powder.

The cut or crushed bark is used to prepare decoctions, and in capsules, liquid extracts, tinctures and medicinal wines.

Constituents

Condurango bark contains glycosides of condurangogenins, which are bitter principles related to saponosides, phytosterols and flavonoids.

Medicinal uses

The combination of chemicals found in Condurango helps to stimulate the appetite, improve digestion and relieve gastritis. It is therefore used in preparations for treating stomach disorders and is combined with centaury, juniper and gentian to boost the appetite of people who are convalescing.

Condurango has also been used to treat fluid retention and bleeding,and recent animal studies suggest that it may help to stop or inhibit the growth of cancerous tumours.

Cultivation

Condurango can be grown from seed in a partially shaded plot of sandy soil, that is rich in humus.

PREPARATON AND DOSAGE

For internal use

TO TREAT 1055 of appetite, dyspepsia, stomach pains DECOCTION Put 1.5g of finely chopped bark into 250ml of cold water and bring to the boil. Cool completely, then strain. Drink 1 glass 30 minutes before every meal.

CAPSULES (100mg of dry extract) Take 1-2 capsules three times a day, 30 minutes before meals.

LIQUID EXTRACT Put 20 drops into 300ml water and drink before each meal.

TINCTURE Take 25 drops in 300ml of water, three times a day.

MEDICINAL WINE Drink 1-2 tablespoons 30 minutes before each meal.

CAUTIONS