Guaiacum, sometimes spelled Guajacum, is a genus of flowering plants in the caltrop family Zygophyllaceae. It contains five species of slow-growing shrubs and trees, reaching a height of approximately 20 m (66 ft) but are usually less than half of that. All are native to subtropical and tropical regions of the Americas and are commonly known as lignum-vitae, guayacán (Spanish), or gaïac (French). The genus name originated in Maipurean, the language spoken by the native Taínos of the Bahamas; it was adopted into English in 1533, the first word in that language of American origin.
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Uses
A phenolic compound derived from the resin of Guaiacum trees is used in a common test for blood in human stool samples. The presence of heme in the blood causes the formation of a coloured product in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The effect of peroxidases in horseradish on guiacum was first noted in 1810 by Planche.
As a food additive Guaiacum has the E number of E314 and is classified as an antioxidant.
A widely used derivative drug is the expectorant known as guaifenesin.
The soap fragrance oil of guaiac comes from Bulnesia sarmientoi, a South American tree from the same family.
Members of the genus are grown in Florida and California as ornamental plants.
Benefits
Guaiacum resin has been historically used for its antibacterial properties, which is the basis of its use in treating syphilis. It is also used as an antioxidant and is used as a diuretic for expelling urine, promoting the discharge of mucous, and promoting the evacuation of bowels. It is also used to purify the blood, stimulate circulation, and to treat gout, tonsillitis, and rheumatism.
Cautions
None are recorded. Please consult with your doctor!
Interactions
Not enough information
Other names
Guajacum
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guaiacum
AskDrMao, http://www.askdrmao.com/natural-health-dictionary/guaiacum-resin/