Picrasma vs Warburgia Ugandensis

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Picrasma

Picrasma excelsa

Antimicrobial

Warburgia ugandensis

Antimicrobial

Picrasma

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Warburgia Ugandensis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Caribbean and South American tree with intensely bitter wood used as a tonic digestive and antimalarial; one of the most bitter known plants.

East African tree with peppery bark used across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania for respiratory infections, malaria, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Active Compounds

quassin, neoquassin, isoquassin, 18-hydroxyquassin, beta-carboline

warburganal, polygodial, muzigadial, isodrimenol, sesquiterpene dialdehydes

Traditional Uses

Malaria, Digestive tonic, Anorexia, Head lice

Respiratory infections, Malaria, Gastrointestinal disorders, Skin infections

Modern Uses

Antimalarial activity, Digestive stimulation, Antiparasitic effects, Antibacterial properties

Antibacterial activity, Antifungal properties, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antimalarial potential

Adult Dosage

Wood tea (very small chip): 1 cup daily; 1-2ml tincture

Bark decoction: 1 cup twice daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Children, Large doses (toxic)

Pregnancy, Lactation, Gastric ulcers

Side Effects

Extreme bitterness, Nausea, Vomiting in excess

Pungent irritation, Gastric discomfort at high doses

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E