Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Quassia (from the bark and wood of Quassia amara or Picrasma excelsa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for treating intestinal parasites, particularly worms (helminths) and nematodes. Traditional systems, especially in South America and the Caribbean, have employed quassia extracts as a bitter tonic and vermifuge—an agent that expels intestinal worms. The active compounds in quassia, primarily quassinoids such as quassin and neoquassin, are believed to exert anthelmintic effects by disrupting the metabolism of parasitic worms. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document its use in decoctions, enemas, and infusions for this purpose.

However, scientific validation is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies indicate that quassia extracts can have toxic effects on certain worms, reducing parasite load in laboratory models. Despite these findings, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and safety data are sparse. Modern pharmacological interest exists, but the evidence base is not strong enough to fully endorse its use over conventional anthelmintics. Thus, while the traditional use is well-established and supported by preliminary scientific observations, the overall evidence is weak compared to modern pharmacological standards. More research is needed to determine efficacy, optimal dosing, and safety in human populations.

More about quassia
More about Parasites (nematodes, worms)

Other ingredients used for Parasites (nematodes, worms)

Other health conditions supported by quassia

Products containing quassia