Hymenaea courbaril vs Alpinia calcarata

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Hymenaea courbaril

Respiratory

Respiratory

Hymenaea courbaril

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Alpinia calcarata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Amazonian and Caribbean tree; bark and resin used in Brazilian folk medicine for respiratory and digestive conditions.

Sri Lankan Alpinia used in Siddha and Ayurveda for respiratory conditions and joint pain.

Active Compounds

terpenes, diterpenic acids, flavonoids, tannins, copal resin

terpinen-4-ol, 1,8-cineole, flavonoids, essential oils

Traditional Uses

cough, bronchitis, digestive complaints, energy tonic, antifungal

cough, bronchitis, joint pain, digestive complaints

Modern Uses

expectorant, antifungal, digestive tonic, energy support

expectorant, anti-inflammatory, digestive stimulant

Adult Dosage

Bark tea 5-10g 2x/day; resin as incense

3-5g rhizome decoction 2x/day

Contraindications

pregnancy, liver disease

pregnancy (large doses), allergy to Zingiberaceae

Side Effects

GI upset

GI upset, skin sensitization

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E