Physic nut (medsiyen beni)
Jatropha curcas
Physic nut
medsiyen beni
Médicinier béni
Jatropha curcas
Traditionally used
⚠ Never swallow any part — the seed holds curcin, a ricin-like cell poison, and most poisonings are in children. Externally, though, TRAMIL validates the fresh latex on sores, mouth thrush, and minor burns, and a leaf-water wash for itching. Topical only. Not in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for children under 10.
Prepared as
External use only (TRAMIL): break a leaf stem and apply 2–4 drops of fresh latex to the affected skin 2–4 times a day; or bathe the area with a decoction of fresh leaves. Never ingest the seed or any part. Not in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or children under 10.
In three languages
Kreyòl — ⚠ Pa janm vale okenn pati — grenn nan gen kursin, yon pwazon selil ki sanble ak risin, epi pifò anpwazonnman se nan timoun. Men pou deyò, TRAMIL valide latèks fre a sou maleng, chanpiyon nan bouch, ak ti boule, epi yon beny dlo fèy pou gratèl. Pou deyò sèlman. Pa pou fanm ansent, fanm k ap bay tete, ni timoun anba 10 an.
Français — ⚠ Ne jamais avaler aucune partie — la graine contient de la curcine, un poison cellulaire proche de la ricine, et la plupart des empoisonnements touchent les enfants. En externe toutefois, TRAMIL valide le latex frais sur les plaies, le muguet buccal et les brûlures légères, et un lavage à l'eau de feuilles contre les démangeaisons. Usage externe uniquement. Pas pendant la grossesse, l'allaitement, ni chez les enfants de moins de 10 ans.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Kept alongside