Evidence supporting the use of: Croton seeds
For the health condition: Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Croton seeds, particularly from the species Croton tiglium, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, notably in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. Historically, they have been employed as a drastic purgative to expel intestinal worms and other parasites. The seeds contain potent compounds such as croton oil, which induces intense gastrointestinal irritation and purgation, believed to help clear the digestive tract of nematodes and other parasites. However, this traditional use is associated with significant toxicity, including severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and the risk of fatal poisoning. Modern scientific studies evaluating the direct anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) efficacy of Croton seeds against specific nematodes are scarce or lacking. Most available literature highlights the drastic purgative effect rather than a specific anti-parasitic mechanism. Due to their toxicity, Croton seeds are no longer recommended or used in modern clinical practice for this purpose, and safer, more effective anthelmintics are available. The evidence supporting their use against parasites is thus rooted primarily in traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation.
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Other health conditions supported by croton seeds
Abdominal PainAbscesses
Boils
Digestion (poor)
Fever
Infection
Inflammation
Parasites (general)
Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Skin (infections)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores
