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