Alstonia vs Ficus Exasperata

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Alstonia

Alstonia boonei

Antimicrobial

Ficus exasperata

Antimicrobial

Alstonia

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Ficus Exasperata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Large tree of West African forests; bark is one of the most important antimalarial herbs of West Africa.

West African fig tree with rough sandpaper-like leaves used for wound healing, antimicrobial treatment, and management of hypertension.

Active Compounds

echitamine, alstonine, pleiocarpamine, strictamine, alkaloids

flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, sterols

Traditional Uses

Malaria treatment across West Africa, Fever reduction, Hypertension in folk medicine, Used by Akan, Yoruba and other West African peoples

Wound healing, Hypertension, Stomach disorders, Respiratory conditions

Modern Uses

Antimalarial research, Antihypertensive, Antipyretic, Analgesic

Antimicrobial activity, Antihypertensive effects, Wound healing acceleration, Anti-inflammatory properties

Adult Dosage

2–4 g bark as decoction; 1–2 mL tincture — professional guidance recommended

Leaf decoction: 1 cup twice daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Large doses (alkaloid toxicity), Cardiac conditions

Pregnancy, Hypotension medication

Side Effects

Alkaloid toxicity in excess, GI irritation, Cardiac effects

Mild digestive effects, Skin abrasion from direct leaf contact

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E