Description
Quassia Wood (Picraena excelsa) is also known as Bitter Wood, Jamaica Quassia, Bitter Ash , Quassia Lignum and Kawasiya bark, Kavas Wood .
It is native to the island of Jamaica, the West Indies and is also found in Surinam and Guiana. It is a small tree that can grow from 50 to 100 feet in height.
It has a grayish bark which is smooth in texture and has small yellow green flowers.
Quassia Wood is made from the trunk and the branches of the Quassia tree and these are the main parts of the plant that are used for medicinal and therapeutic purposes.
Ancient Uses
The Quassia tree was treated with great honor in the ancient cultures of the West Indies.
Medicines and drinks were drunk from goblets that were made from Quassia Wood because it was believed that drinks would be much more potent. Water left for a few minutes in a Quassia Wood goblet turned bitter and was used to remedy many illnesses of the gastrointestinal system.
Modern Uses
During modern times, the discovery of the many properties of the Quassia Wood have led to its use in the treatment of fevers, colds, coughs and the flu.
Because of its anti inflammatory properties,Quassia Wood is used for the treatment of rheumatism, Joint pain, swelling, redness and immobility are also reduced with preparations made from this tree.
The Quassia Wood is also a treatment for intestinal worms.It can remove roundworms and pinworms.
There are also studies regarding the effectiveness of the Quassia Wood to deter alcoholism; water left overnight in a cup with chips made from this tree creates a bitter tonic that is said to remedy alcohol intoxication.
Lotions and shampoos made from Quassia Wood are used to treat dandruff, lice and many other skin and hair conditions.
Kavas Wood is helpful for maintaining sugar level in diabetics.
General Fitness in diabetic condition.
Soak 2-3 chips of Kavas Wood in a glass of water for about 8 hours.
Strain the water and drink it in the morning. This will help you keep fit in diabetic conditions.
It also helps for minimizing internal parasites, gallstones, and digestive disorders.
Kavas Wood for Hair Care
Soak 4-5 chips of Kavas Wood in water for 24 hours.
Soak 4-5 chips of Kavas Wood in water for 24 hours.
Strain and apply the water on your hair.
Allow it to dry for an hour before washing it off. Repeat for three days to get rid of hair lice.
