Pilocarpus is a genus of about 13 species of plants belonging to the family Rutaceae, native to the neotropics of South America. Various species are important pharmacologically as a source of the parasympathomimetic alkaloid Pilocarpine. Many of the species have the common name jaborandi.
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Uses
Despite serious safety concerns, Pilocarpus is used to treat diarrhea and to cause sweating.
Benefits
Some people also put it in the eye to treat glaucoma.
It’s important to understand the difference between jaborandi and pilocarpine. Jaborandi itself is rarely used as a medicinal herb, but it is used in the production of pilocarpine, an FDA-approved prescription medication. Pilocarpine eye drops are used for treating glaucoma. Pilocarpine tablets are used for treating dry mouth due to radiation treatment or dry mouth and dry eyes due to a condition called Sjogren’s syndrome.
Cautions
Pilocarpus is UNSAFE for use as a medicinal herb. A deadly dose of jaborandi is estimated to be only 5-10 grams of leaf.
Pilocarpus is, however, used in the production of pilocarpine, an FDA-approved prescription medication.
Interactions
None are recorded.
Other names
Arruda Bravam, Arruda Do Mato, Jaborandi, Jamguarandi, Juarandi, Maranhao Jaborandi, Pilocarpus Jaborandi, Pilocarpus microphyllus
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilocarpus
WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-261-JABORANDI.aspx?activeIngredientId=261&activeIngredientName=JABORANDI