Botanical Overview
Brucea javanica is a flowering plant species in the family Simaroubaceae native to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, China, and India. Commonly known as Java Brucea or Macassar kernel, the main parts used medicinally are the seeds and fruit. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Energetics
The energetics of Brucea javanica are considered cooling and drying with a bitter taste. It is regarded as tonifying and is used to address conditions related to heat and parasites.
Primary Actions
- Antiviral
- Antiparasitic
- Antitumor
- Astringent
- Bitter
Indications
Western
- Diarrhea
- Malaria-like fevers
- Viral infections
- Skin ulcers
- Dysentery
Syndromes
- Parasitic infestations
- Infectious diseases
- Chronic diarrhea
- Skin infections
TCM
- Chronic diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Malaria-like symptoms
- Abdominal pain
Syndromes
- Damp-heat in the intestines
- Parasite infestation
Ayurveda
- Digestive disorders
- Parasitic infections
Syndromes
Unani
- Dysentery
- Fever
- Parasitic infections
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include quassinoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, and bruceanols. These compounds contribute to the plant’s antiviral, antiparasitic, and antitumor properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Seed oil extract 20-40 mg daily
- Powdered seed capsules 0.5-1 g twice daily
Safety & Contraindications
Brucea javanica is generally well tolerated in traditional dosages. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential uterotonic effects and should be used with caution during lactation. There are no well-established drug interactions documented.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable data found regarding planetary or elemental rulers for Brucea javanica within traditional esoteric herbal sources.
Selected References
- Brucea javanica in traditional and modern medicine, Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2011
- Brucea javanica (Ya Dan Zi) TCM monograph, Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 2004
- Brucea javanica, WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3, 2008