Jardines: Camino de las Orquídeas, Shalcapata

Traditional Uses in Leymebamba: For healing or cleansing (source: Don Jabier Farje)

Description: Croton lechleri, known in Peru as "sangre de grado," is a tree of the Euphorbiaceae family native to the Amazonian regions. Its reddish sap is highly valued in traditional Peruvian medicine and is widely used for its healing properties.

Medicinal Properties:

1. Healing Properties

Sangre de grado sap is a well-known traditional remedy for treating wounds, cuts, and skin ulcers.

It helps form a protective layer that accelerates the healing process and prevents infection.

It is effective in treating burns and gastric ulcers.

2. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties

It is used to fight bacterial and fungal skin infections.

Traditionally, it is also used to clean wounds and prevent internal and external infections.

3. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Topical application reduces inflammation in areas affected by bruises, wounds, or insect bites.

It is used as an infusion or extract to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation.

4. Antidiarrheal Properties

In the form of an infusion or capsules, the sap is used as a powerful astringent to treat diarrhea, including severe diarrheal infections such as those caused by bacteria and viruses.

It is commonly used in Amazonian communities as an emergency remedy for digestive problems.

5. Antioxidant Properties

The phenolic compounds present in Croton lechleri ​​sap have antioxidant properties, which help combat the damage caused by free radicals in the body.

6. Antiviral Properties

Recent studies have shown that extracts of Sangre de Grado have antiviral potential, especially against viruses that affect mucous membranes.

Uses in Peru:

1. Fresh sap: Applied directly to the skin for wounds and burns.

2. Infusion or liquid extracts: Used to treat internal conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, and diarrhea.

3. Capsules or commercial products: In modern Peruvian medicine, the sap is encapsulated or sold as extracts for more convenient and standardized consumption.

Precautions:

Although Croton lechleri ​​is generally safe, excessive consumption can cause adverse effects such as constipation.

It is always advisable to consult a doctor or specialist before using medicinal plants, especially in the case of pregnant women, children, or people with preexisting medical conditions.

Referencias:

Lopes, T. V., Félix, S. R., de Vargas Schons, S., & de Oliveira Nobre, M. (2013). Dragon's blood (Croton lechleri Mull., Arg.): an update on the chemical composition and medical applications of this natural plant extract. A review. Revista Brasileira de Higiene e Sanidade Animal: RBHSA, 7(2), 167-191.