Strychnos Spinosa vs Lonicera Japonica

African thorny tree related to strychnos but primarily food-medicinal; fruit pulp used nutritively while bark is used medicinally for fever, malaria, and toothache.

TCM herb used to clear heat and toxins; one of the most commonly used herbs for fever, infections, and inflammatory conditions across East Asian medicine.

loganin, strychnine (trace), tannins, flavonoids, organic acids

chlorogenic acid, luteolin, caffeic acid, quercetin, lonicerosides

Malaria (low-dose bark), Toothache, Fever, Nutritive fruit

Heat and toxin conditions, Upper respiratory infections, Fever, Skin infections

Antimalarial potential, Nutritional support, Antioxidant properties, Antibacterial activity

Antibacterial activity, Antiviral effects, Anti-inflammatory properties, Antioxidant support

Fruit pulp as food; small doses bark decoction for fever

9-15g dried flower daily; 500mg-1g extract twice daily

Pregnancy, High doses of bark (toxic alkaloids), Children (bark)

Cold conditions without heat

Bark toxic in high doses, Fruit generally safe

Mild digestive effects, Diarrhea if Spleen weak