Latin Name: Guiacum officinale
Alternate Names: Lignum Vitae, Lignum Sanctum, Guaiac, Pockwood, Guayacan
Family: ZYGOPHYLLACEAE
Parts Used: Resin, bark, heartwood.
Properties: Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Laxative, Stimulant.
Internal Uses: Arthritis, Catarrh, Gout, Rheumatism, Syphilis
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.
Is a mild laxative. Guiacum is used both internally and externally to improve circulation.
Topical Uses: Arthritis, Herpes, Sore Throat, Swellings, Toothache
Topical Applications: Liniment for arthritic joints, swellings and herpes sores. Resin is applied to cottonballs and applied to an aching tooth. Lozenge for sore throats.
Culinary uses: The resin is used to help preserve fats.
Energetics: Bitter, Cool.
Chemical Constituents: Essential oil, resin (guaiaconic, guaianetic, guaiacic), lignans (furoguaiacidin), guaiacin, saponins, vanillin.
Contraindications: Although very rare, it is possible that Guiacum may cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Comments: Guiacum is native to the Carribean and the northern coast of South America. The wood is burned as an incense. Unfortunately, the plant has nearly been exterminated due to harvesting for medicinal uses. Therefore, please avoid using or purchasing products that have been made from wild plants. Use only the cultivated herb.