Ravenala madagascariensis vs Bayberry

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Ravenala madagascariensis

Anti-inflammatory

Myrica cerifera

Anti-inflammatory

Ravenala madagascariensis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Bayberry

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Madagascar's iconic tree; sap drunk as emergency water; bark used in Malagasy folk medicine for fever.

A North American shrub whose root bark is a powerful astringent, used by Thomsonian herbalists as a cornerstone remedy.

Active Compounds

tannins, flavonoids, minerals, alkaloids

Myricitrin, Myricadiol, Tannins, Triterpenes

Traditional Uses

fever, diarrhea, food/water source (sap)

Diarrhea, Sore throat gargle, Fever, Nasal congestion

Modern Uses

emergency hydration (sap), antipyretic (bark)

Astringent, Circulatory stimulant, Antimicrobial, Diaphoretic

Adult Dosage

Bark decoction 5-10g 2x/day

1-2g root bark powder as tea 2-3x daily

Contraindications

pregnancy

Pregnancy, Hypertension, Kidney disease, Sodium-restricted diet

Side Effects

GI upset

GI upset, Sodium/water retention, Liver concerns

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E