A plant record

Strophanthus

Strophanthus gratus · Apocynaceae

EnglishStrophanthus

FrançaisStrophantus

BotanicalStrophanthus gratus

Also known asStrophantus gratus

FamilyApocynaceae

Strophanthus — Strophanthus gratus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

⚠ Documented, never use. Strophanthus seeds carry potent cardiac heterosides and were used to poison hunting and war arrows. Their rapid, non-accumulating digitalis-like action on the heart exists only as an intravenous drug given by a physician; there is no safe home preparation. Recorded here for the archive alone.

In three languages

Français — ⚠ Documenté, à ne jamais utiliser. Les graines de strophantus renferment de puissants hétérosides cardiaques et servaient à empoisonner les flèches de chasse et de guerre. Leur action cardiaque rapide et non cumulative, proche de la digitale, n'existe que sous forme de médicament injectable administré par un médecin; aucune préparation domestique n'est sûre. Consigné ici pour la seule mémoire de l'archive.

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.

Sources & lineage

Pharmacological literature; cardiac heterosides (ouabain, cymarin)

Kept alongside

Indian Snakeroot

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