Common Name:

General Information

Andira humilis is a sub-shrub forming mats of woody growth up to 10 metres in diamete, with aerial shoots up to 50cm tall that usually die back to the ground in adverse conditions. Occasionally it becomes more shrub-like, or even tree-like, with stems to 2 metres or more tall)[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine.
Andira humilis has a wide range and is common within that range. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2020)[].

Known Hazards

Many members of this genus are used medicinally, particularly to treat parasitic and other skin conditions, and to act as a drastic purgative. The powdered wood, bark and seeds are the parts most commonly used. However the medicinal use of these plants needs to be tempered with caution since the active compounds (the alkaloid andirine is most commonly mentioned) are toxic and, in all but small doses, can cause fever, delerium, vomiting and, in extreme cases, death[, ]. Both caster oil (from Ricinus communis) and lemon juice are said to be effective antidotes[].
The smoke from the wood is said to be toxic and to cause blindness if it gets in the eyes[, ].

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Paraguay, Bolivia, Brazil

Habitat

Savannah and other open, fire-prone vegetation[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Shrub
Height	0.50 m
Pollinators	Bees, Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Not known

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The seed is vermifuge[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed -

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