Hydnocarpus wightianus
Hydnocarpus wightianus
Safety & Hazards
Although we have seen no specific information for this species, the seeds of many members of this genus contain cyanogetic glycosides[ 218 Title Medicinal Plants of China Publication Author Duke. J. A. and Ayensu. E. S. Publisher Reference Publications, Inc. Year 1985 ISBN 0-917256-20-4 Description Details of over 1,200 medicinal plants of China and brief details of their uses. Often includes an analysis, or at least a list of constituents. Heavy going if you are not into the subject. , 310 Title Plant Resources of Southeast Asia Publication Author Website http://proseanet.org/ Publisher Year 0 ISBN Description Lots of information on the uses of the plants of SE Asia. ]. In very small quantities this has been used medicinally, having been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.
Botanical Description
Hydnocarpus wightianus is a tall evergreen tree[ 506 Title The Flora of British India. (in 7 volumes) Publication Author Hooker J.D. Website http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org Publisher L.Reeve & Co.; London Year 1872 - 1897 ISBN Description Rather dated, but has some information on plant uses. It can be downloaded from the Internet. ]. The tree is commonly harvested from the wild for the oil obtained from its seed, which is used both locally and also traded as a treatment for a range of skin problems.