World of Peruvian Herbs

some medicinal plants of the Andes and the Amazon

Traditional use:

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SANGRE DE DRAGO

 
LATIN NAME: Croton lechleri

USED PARTS OF THE PLANT:

bark, leaves, twigs, and juice - resin

CURATIVE PROPERTIES: 

immuno-modulation, antivirus, antibacterial, anti-flu, anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, dermato-regenerating, anti-diabetic, metabolic, anti-rheumatic

USE IN TRADITIONAL PERUVIAN MEDICINE:
  • Oncologic diseases
  • Digestive system, diarrhea, duodenum and stomach ulcers, intestines, digestive problems, bloatedness
  • TB, the flu, a cold
  • Mouth ulcer, oral cavity ulcers, sore throat, throat infection, periodontitis
  • Viruses, bacteria, immune system
  • Eczema, pimples, acne, skin injuries, burns, scratches, insect bites, mould, mycosis
  • Rheumatism

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANT AND ITS PRESENCE

Sangre de Drago, also known in Peru as Sangre de Grado, grows in the higher forests of the Andes, on the sides of gorges, at the altitude between 300 and 2000 meters above the sea level. In some locations the trees of Sangre de Drago form small woods. The tree is lean, and the bark is red and grey with white spots. It grows up to 10-20 meters high. In the top part its crown is very branchy. The leaves are large (12-30 cm long), light green, heart-shaped, covered with tiny hairs. It has many flowers – from green/white to amber ones. The fruits are small, round, reddish, covered with hairs, and the shape resembles a dragon. When you cut the tree’s bark, the tree “bleeds” dark red liquid that resembles blood. The name “Dragon’s Blood” comes from these two things, the blood and, the fruit.
It has been used in the traditional Peruvian medicine for ages. It has even been attributed some magical powers, and currently, because of its amazing properties, it seems to be more and more of an interest for scientists.


MORE INFORMATION

Sangre de Drago is one of the most popular gifts of the Peruvian nature, and right next to the Vilcacora it located ahead of the pack. By some, the drops of the tree are considered to be magical. It has earned the popularity by the strong anti-virus properties. It is also antibacterial, anti-mould, haemostatic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and tonifying. It is a strong stimulant for the immune system. It supports the regeneration of the organism. Among many different substances present in Sangre de Drago – taspine seems to be the one especially worth mentioning. It is alkaloid of healing properties, it is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. It helps to heal the wounds, and protects the mucous of the stomach. Because of that compound, Sangre is often used for treating different types of diarrhea, and as a support for treating AIDS. It has a beneficial influence on the duodenum and stomach ulcers, digestion issues, bloatedness, intestines inflammation, and Crohn’s disease. 
The research has pointed out strong anti-virus properties of another compound, which is effective in fighting viruses of the airways, the flu, flu-like infection, acne virus, throat inflammation, oral cavity inflammation, tonsils inflammation, angina, and hepatitis A, B, and C. It has some anti-cancer properties, it is used in case of leukemia. It is also helpful for anemia, TB, shingles, and as a support for rheumatism.
Sangre de Drago – the Dragon’s Blood – also has impressive external application: it halts bleeding, protects against the infection, speeds up the regeneration of the skin, helps to produce new collagen.
It creates a protective layer on the wounded place. Because of that the wound heals very fast. It is perfect for any kinds of wounds (also post operational) and cuts, scratches, burns, insect bites, open varicose veins, dermomycosis, dermatosis, gum bleeding, periodontitis, bleeding after tooth removal, hemorrhoids. 
It is an irreplaceable help in the home first aid kit.


USE AND MOST COMMON DOSAGE

Use Sangre de Drago once a day, 5-20 drops for small amount of water (two spoons), drink in the morning on an empty stomach. Get to that dose gradually, starting with three drops, add three more every day.

NOTES

Although, the clinical trials did not show any side effects, Sangre de Drago is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Exceeding the safe dose can lead to constipation, and blood circulation disorders.
The drops should be kept in a tightly sealed, cool place, and kept away from the sunlight. If they get denser or dry, dilute with water, not alcohol.