Also know as Guaiacum officinale, gaïacwood or roughbark lignum-vitae
The guaiacwood is a species of tree in the caltrop family, Zygophyllaceae, that is native to the Caribbean and the northern coast of South America. It is an evergreen tree that grows to around 60 feet tall and its flower is the national flower of Jamaica. Like myrrh and other tree resins, the gaiacwood tree resin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
Beneficial compounds in the guaiacwood tree resin
- Guaiaconic acid
- Guaiaguttin
- Guaianetic acid
- Guacic acid
- Polytriterpenoids
- Saponins
- Vanillin
The guaiacwood has anti-rheumatic, antifungal, astringent, laxative, diuretic, sudorific, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
It has been used as a laxative, diuretic and to promote sweat in fevers. Taken internally it is said to lower blood pressure and to relieve gout and arteriosclerosis. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that promotes circulation and clears toxins from tissues and is especially useful in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism. It can also be used as a wash or lotion for skin diseases.
Related subjects
- A-Z of natural foods and remedies
- Arthritis
- Bacterial infections and natural antibiotics
- Blood and vein disorders
- Bone and joint disorders
- Fungal and yeast infections
- Gout
- High blood pressure
- Pain and inflammation
- Skin disorders
Join our mailing list to receive your monthly emailed newsletter with all the latest scientific findings for natural health remedies.