Abrus Precatorius: Complete Medicinal Profile
Abrus precatorius, also known as the rosary pea or crab's eye, is a plant species native to tropical Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
The seeds of this plant contain a toxic compound called abrin, which has medicinal properties that can be used to treat various health conditions, including cancer, fever, and skin infections.
The health benefits of Abrus precatorius include its ability to reduce inflammation, improve immune function, and exhibit antimicrobial and antiviral activities.
Herbal preparations of Abrus precatorius include teas, infusions, and extracts, which are used to treat various health conditions, although it is essential to note that the seeds should be handled with caution due to their high toxicity.
Study of the Day
According to Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine, Abrus precatorius, also known as jequirity, is one of the medicinal plants reported by Maria Sibylla Merian, and its traditional use was correlated with pharmacological studies, highlighting its potential in traditional medicine.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Abrus precatorius.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Abrus precatorius is used to treat a variety of health conditions, including fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
It has been traditionally used to aid in the treatment of digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation, as well as respiratory problems including bronchitis and asthma.
The plant is also known to help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.
Additionally, it has been used to boost energy and vitality, improve immune function, and even support the treatment of certain types of cancer and viral infections.
The health benefits of Abrus precatorius are listed below.
- Antibacterial properties: The plant has been found to possess antibacterial properties, which can help in treating bacterial infections and promoting wound healing.
- Antifungal properties: Abrus precatorius has been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, which can help in treating fungal infections and preventing the growth of fungi.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains antioxidants that can help in protecting the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
- Pain relief: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat pain and inflammation, and its seeds have been found to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cardiovascular health: Abrus precatorius has been found to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health, with its extracts showing potential in lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood flow.
- Neuroprotective properties: The plant has been found to possess neuroprotective properties, which can help in protecting the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Anticancer properties: Abrus precatorius has been found to have anticancer properties, with its extracts showing potential in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis.
Here are the best health benefits of Abrus precatorius.
Actions
Abrus precatorius has been found to exhibit a wide range of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, nervine, antiseptic, and antiviral properties, which affect the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system, and the cardiovascular system.
Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties also have effects on the integumentary system and the immune system, while its antiviral properties have implications for the respiratory system and the genitourinary system.
Additionally, this plant has been observed to have sedative, anxiolytic, and diuretic effects, which can impact the nervous system and the urinary system.
Furthermore, its antioxidant properties can protect against oxidative stress in various body systems, including the cardiovascular system, the digestive system, and the musculoskeletal system.
The therapeutic actions of Abrus precatorius are listed below.
- Antiseptic: Prevents the growth of microorganisms on the wound, reducing the risk of infection.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling, pain, and redness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
- Antipyretic: Helps to reduce fever by acting on the hypothalamus to decrease the body's temperature set point.
- Nervine: Affects the nervous system, often used to calm the nerves, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
- Antimicrobial: Kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Astringent: Helps to contract and constrict body tissues, often used to stop bleeding and reduce discharge.
- Analgesic: Relieves pain by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals or by affecting the nervous system to reduce pain perception.
Constituents
Abrus precatorius has been found to contain a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, phenolic acids, tannins, terpenoids, and cardenolides, which exhibit a range of pharmacological properties.
Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, while alkaloids like abrine and abrin have demonstrated cytotoxic and antiviral properties.
Saponins, including abrusosides A and B, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, while phenolic acids, including ferulic and caffeic acids, have been shown to exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Additionally, the cardenolides present in Abrus precatorius, such as abrinone and rotenone, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities.
The bioactive constituents of Abrus precatorius are listed below.
- Abrusin: A toxic peptide and an isopentapeptide, responsible for the plant's toxicity
- Tannins: Polyphenolic compounds contributing to the plant's astringent properties
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds with antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory properties
- Saponins: A group of compounds with foaming properties, potentially contributing to the plant's medicinal uses
- Alkaloids: A class of nitrogenous compounds with potential medicinal and toxic properties
- Glycosides: Compounds containing a sugar molecule, potentially contributing to the plant's medicinal properties
- Isoflavones: A subclass of flavonoids with potential estrogenic and anti-inflammatory properties
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Abrus precatorius are the seeds, leaves, and roots, which have been employed for various health purposes in traditional medicine.
The seeds, rich in Abrin toxin, are used to treat fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions such as eczema and acne, but must be handled with extreme care due to their toxicity.
The leaves are employed to alleviate symptoms of malaria, cholera, and bronchitis, while also being used as an antidote for snake bites and insect stings.
The roots are used to treat digestive issues like diarrhea and dysentery, as well as to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Abrus precatorius and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Leaves | Fever, rheumatism, inflammation |
| Seeds | Pain, infection, snake bites |
| Roots | Diarrhea, dysentery, skin diseases |
Preparations
Abrus precatorius most common herbal preparations are infusions, decoctions, tinctures, and poultices, which are utilized for various health purposes.
Infusions, also known as teas, are used to treat fever, diarrhea, and digestive issues, while decoctions are employed to alleviate coughs, colds, and respiratory problems.
Tinctures, which are concentrated extracts, are utilized to treat anxiety, insomnia, and skin conditions, such as eczema and acne.
Poultices, made from crushed seeds or leaves, are applied topically to treat wounds, burns, and inflammation, making Abrus precatorius a versatile and valuable herbal remedy.
The herbal preparations of Abrus precatorius are listed below.
- Abrus precatorius infusion: A liquid herbal preparation made by infusing the leaves of the abrus precatorius plant in hot water, often used for its potential medicinal properties.
- Abrus precatorius tincture: A concentrated liquid herbal preparation made by macerating the abrus precatorius plant in a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin, often used for its potential medicinal properties.
- Abrus precatorius tea: A prepared liquid herbal drink made by infusing the abrus precatorius plant in hot water, often used for its potential medicinal and culinary properties.
- Abrus precatorius powder: A powdered herbal preparation made by drying and grinding the abrus precatorius plant, often used as a supplement or ingredient in traditional medicine.
- Abrus precatorius extract: A concentrated herbal preparation made by extracting the active compounds from the abrus precatorius plant using a solvent such as ethanol or hexane, often used for its potential medicinal properties.
- Abrus precatorius oil: A liquid herbal preparation made by extracting the essential oils from the abrus precatorius plant using a solvent such as hexane or ethanol, often used for its potential medicinal and cosmetic properties.
- Abrus precatorius capsules: A standardized herbal supplement made by filling capsules with a powdered or extracted form of the abrus precatorius plant, often used for its potential medicinal properties.
Side Effects
Abrus precatorius side effects are numerous and can be severe, particularly for individuals who ingest or come into contact with the plant's seeds.
Common side effects include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney damage, which can also lead to conditions such as hemolysis and renal failure.
People who are most likely to experience these side effects are those who accidentally ingest the plant's seeds, such as children, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions.
Precautions include avoiding contact with the plant, wearing protective gloves when handling it, and properly disposing of any plant material to prevent accidental ingestion.
The possible side effects of Abrus precatorius are listed below.
- Nephrotoxicity: Abrus precatorius can cause damage to the kidneys and impair renal function.
- Neurotoxicity: The plant contains a toxin called abrin that can cause neurological symptoms, including tremors, muscle weakness, and respiratory failure.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Consuming abrus precatorius can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Cardiovascular problems: The plant may cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to cardiovascular issues.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the plant and experience symptoms such as hives, itching, and swelling.
- Skin irritation: The sap of abrus precatorius can cause skin irritation, including redness, itching, and rashes.
- Abortifacient effects: The plant has been known to cause miscarriage in pregnant women due to its toxic properties.