Botanical Overview
Erythrina mulungu, commonly known as Mulungu or Coral tree, is a member of the Fabaceae family native to South America, notably Brazil and the Amazon rainforest. The bark and leaves are primarily used in herbal medicine.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and neutral in moisture with bitter and sweet tastes. Its energetic actions include a descending directionality and a relaxing tonic effect on the shen (spirit/mind).
Primary Actions
- Anxiolytic
- Nervine
- Sedentary
Indications
Western
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Nervous tension
- Hypertension related to stress
Syndromes
- General nervous system relaxation
- Mild sedative support
TCM
Not classically used or documented in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Ayurveda
No well-documented traditional indications.
Unani
No well-documented traditional indications.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains bioactive alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids responsible for its calming and sedative effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 2-4 g of dried bark infused 1-2 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL taken 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated in traditional dosages. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Potential additive sedative effects with CNS depressants. Large doses may cause hypotension or excessive sedation.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Anxiolytic and sedative effects of Erythrina mulungu Martius ex Benth. in mice – Rodrigues M, et al., 2002
- Erythrina mulungu – PFAF Plant Database
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Erythrina mulungu – Silva D.F., et al., 2014