Jamaican Dogwood Herb
How Is It Beneficial To My Health?

Jamaican Dogwood Tree Bark

“The herbs are for the healing of the nations”, is a popular bible verse you will hear being repeated by many Rastafarians and other individuals who consider themselves to be herbalists. But isn’t it true? One herb, in particular, that does exactly that is the Jamaican Dogwood. But what exactly are the benefits of Dogwood?

There are so many illnesses and diseases that have been treated and cured by the herbs grown in our backyards. That is one thing there is no shortage of in Jamaica, herbs are everywhere. Many we grew up on, using them for just about everything from the common cold to joint pains and much more. While you may be familiar with dandelion, fever grass, and Cerasee, have you ever heard of or seen Jamaican Dogwood?

What Is Jamaican Dogwood?

Jamaican Dogwood as it is commonly known is scientifically named "Piscidia Piscipula" and has other popular names like Fishfuddle and Florida Fishpoison Tree. The plant is native to places like Bermuda, Jamaica, Panama, Bahamas and Florida. It is difficult to pinpoint where Jamaican Dogwood was first found or originated.

It is said to have been used during the times of the Tainos. The Tainos would use extracts from the tree to aid in capturing fish. They discovered that the extract from the tree would sedate the fishes and allow them to capture them using their bare hands.

What Is Jamaican Dogwood Good For?

Jamaican Dogwood is used for many purposes. Because of the poisonous properties of the plant to fishes, it is used as a way to sedate fish and capture them. Jamaican Dogwood produces lumber that is highly resistant to decay, making it perfect for the building of our door items like boats, doors, poles and gates.

"Piscidia Piscipula" is also used widely in the herbal medicine community as a treatment for insomnia, nervous system conditions and joint and back pain. If you frequently have menstruation or abdominal pains, it is definitely something you can look into trying. It is also said to relieve migraines and anxiety among other conditions.

One of the best things about the Jamaican Dogwood plant is that when used is its effect is almost immediate and long-lasting.

What Are The Side Effects Of Jamaican Dogwood?

While the Jamaican Dogwood plant definitely has many benefits, like with most natural herbal remedies, they are not scientifically proven. As such it is very important that you consult a herbal doctor before taking to discuss dosage and how to take it.

Most medicines have some side effects and this is no different. There are quite a few side effects and it is even deemed unsafe to be digested by young children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is believed to have an impact on the uterus of women. Here are some of the possible side effects of taking Jamaican Dogwood:

• Sweating
• Tremors
• Salivation
• Numbness 
• Drowsiness

If you are planning on having any surgery that requires the use of anaesthesia, it is recommended that you stop taking Jamaican dogwood at least two weeks prior to surgery. This is because the plant is known to slow down the central nervous system which may lead to complications when combined with anaesthesia and other medications used during and after surgery.

How Do You Use Jamaican Dogwood Herb?

The bark of the Jamaican dogwood tree has been used to created tinctures. Tinctures are basically using extracts or parts of the plant and dissolving it in ethanol. This extract is what is taken as a form of medication, the dosage being dependent on the recommendation of doctors and herbalists.

It is also available as a liquid extract and small pieces of the bark are also sold. This is sometimes used to be brewed into a sort of tea. Dogwood tea is not recommended to drink in more than portions of 2 ounces for every 150lbs of body weight.

How Do You Make Jamaican Dogwood Tea?

To make Jamaican Dogwood as tea is quite simple and common to how most herbal teas are prepared. The bark is quite potent, so you won’t need a lot. Here is what you will need:

• Dried Jamaican Dogwood Tree Bark
• Water
• Honey

Here is a simple method of preparation anyone can try:

• Step 1: cut the dried bark of the "Piscidia Piscipula" into tiny pieces then measure 2 tablespoons for every 8oz cup of water you intend on preparing.

• Step 2: bring water to a boil then add dried pieces of bark.

• Step 3: after simmering for around 20 minutes on low heat, remove from the fire and strain the tea.

• Step 4: sweeten the tea with honey to your liking.

Jamaican Dogwood is an amazing plant, but everyone is uniquely made and its effect on your body may not be the same as everyone else, so always remember to consult your doctor before trying any new herbal medications.

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References & Sources For Jamaican Dogwood Herb

1. Senior, Olive, Encyclopedia of Jamaican Heritage, 2003
2. Wallace & Robinson, Creating Jamaica, Our Early Years, Carlong Publishers
3. Black, Clinton V. History Of Jamaica, 2005
4. Simpson, Joanne, M. Why Heritage, "A Guide To The Importance Of Our Jamaican Story"
5. Sherlock, Phillip & Bennett, Hazel, "The Story Of The Jamaican People" (independence)

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