Barbados Nut

Barbados nut or Physic nut belongs to the plant family Euphorbiaceae. It is a tree about 4 or 5 metres in height. The leaves are ovate to five palmately lobed, veined and petioled as long as the veins. The flowers are yellow. The oil yielded from this tree is used in candle and soap making factories. It grows in tropical countries.

MEDICINAL USE:
*Ulcers, bleeding wounds, piles, eczema, itch, herpes and ringworm.
*Scabies, and as a mouthwash to strengthen the gums.
*Boils and sores.
*Lactation.
*Laxative and narcotic.
*Constipation, oedema, paralysis and worms.
*Abortions.

HOW TO USE:
*The fresh latex is used an ointment over ulcers and bleeding wounds. It is also used in piles, eczema,
  itch, herpes, and ringworm.
*The decoction of the leaves is used as a wash for scabies and for the mouth to strengthen the gums.
*The pounded leaves are applied over boils and sores to promote the quick discharge of pus.
*The same poultice is applied warm over the breasts of nursing mothers to promote the flow of milk.
*The seeds are purgative and narcotic. Three to five seeds, slightly roasted, are sufficient as a
  purgative.
*The oil extracted from the seeds is used internally. Use 4 or 5 drops in water for constipation,
  oedema, paralysis, and worms.
*Externally, it is used for eczema, herpes, itches, sores and other skin diseases.
*Note to expectant mothers: The use of the oil may cause premature abortions.

PARTS USED:
*The latex, leaves, oil and the seeds.

DOSE:
As recommended above.

Normal Dosage For:

Adults: 4 or 5 cups a day.
Aged 6 to 9 years: 2 cups a day
Aged 2 to 5 years: 1 cup a day
1 to 2 years: 1/2 cup a day
Below 1 year: 1/4 or less cup a day

A Useful Table for Quick Measurements:
1 tbsp = 5 grams (green herb)
1 dessertspoon = 2 grams (dry herb)
1 teaspoon = 25 drops
1 cup = 16 tbsp

1 litre = 7 or 8 cups