Jamaica dogwood (Piscidia erythrina/Piscidia piscipula) is best known as a traditional remedy for treating neuralgia (severe, stabbing nerve pain), migraine, insomnia, anxiety, fear, and nervous tension. As early as 1844, Western scientists discovered that Jamaica dogwood had pain-relieving and sweat-promoting properties. More recent scientific studies have also revealed that bark extracts of this plant have anti-inflammatory, sedative, and anti-spasmotic (helps relieve smooth muscle spasms along the digestive tract) effects in animals.

It is important to note that Jamaica dogwood is a highly potent herb with potentially toxic effects if used in large amounts. Jamaica dogwood has been used extensively throughout Central and South America as a fish poison. This herb also contains a substance known as rotenone that has been used in insecticides to control lice, fleas, and larvae. However, rotenone is believed to be relatively harmless to warm-blooded animals including people (when used at recommended doses).

Jamaica dogwood is native to Central America, Florida, and the West Indies, and can now also be found in Texas, Mexico, and the northern part of South America. The plant's characteristic pods bear four projecting longitudinal wings. The bark is yellow or grayish brown on the outer surface, and lighter colored or white on the inner surface. The Jamaica dogwood's distinctly acrid and bitter taste causes a burning sensation in the mouth, and the bark gives off an unpleasant odor.

The medicinal part of the Jamaica dogwood plant is the bark.

Animal studies have shown that Jamaica dogwood may promote sleep, relieve pain, reduce smooth muscle spasms, relieve cough, and reduce fever and inflammation.

A professional herbalist may recommend Jamaica dogwood for the following health problems:

• Anxiety
• Cough
• Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
• Insomnia
• Headache
• Nerve pain
• Toothache

It is important to note that there has been little to no scientific research on Jamaica dogwood, so the safety and effectiveness of this herb is relatively unknown. Jamaica dogwood is a potent herb and should be used only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

The Jamaica dogwood root bark is sold in pieces about one to two inches in length and 1/8 inch in thickness. There is considerable variation in the chemical constituents of Jamaica dogwood from different geographic regions. Jamaica dogwood is also available in liquid extract and tincture forms.

Pediatric

Children should not use Jamaica dogwood.

Adult

• Dried root bark: 1 to 4 g (or equivalent in decoction) three times daily
• Fluid extract: (1:1 in 30% alcohol) 1 to 2 mL three times daily; or 2 to 8 mL per day (1:1 in 60% ethanol)
• Tincture (1:5 in 45% ethanol): 5 to 30 drops (1 to 2 mL) three times per day

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of botanical medicine.

Excessive amounts of Jamaica dogwood can be toxic. Symptoms of Jamaica dogwood overdose include numbness, tremors, salivation, and sweating. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after ingesting Jamaica dogwood. Only trained and qualified healthcare providers who understand the pharmacology, toxicology, and proper herbal preparation of Jamaica dogwood should administer this herb.

Under no circumstances should this plant be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Elderly individuals should also avoid Jamaica dogwood.

Although there are no known scientific reports of interactions between Jamaica dogwood and conventional medications, this herb may intensify the sedative effects of some drugs used for insomnia or anxiety (collectively referred to as central nervous system depressants). Therefore, if you take medicines for sedation or anxiety, you should check with your physician before using Jamaica dogwood.

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998:86-87.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. 4th ed. Great Britain: Biddles Ltd, Guildford and King's Lynn; 1996:139-141.

Della Loggia R, Zilli C, Del Negro P, Redaelli C, Tubaro A. Isoflavones as spasmolytic principles of Piscidia erythrina. Prog Clin Biol Res. 1988;280:365-368.

Newall C, Anderson L, Phillipson J. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, England: Pharmaceutical Press; 1996: 174-175.