Condurango (Marsdenia cundurango (gonolobus condurango) Asclepiadaceae)

Other Names: None Commonly Listed

Condurango, a climbing vine native to South American rainforests, grows on tree trunks in search of sunlight. In the Andean region, its heart-shaped leaves are traditionally used to treat snake bites. Its greenish-white, bell-shaped flowers form umbrella-shaped inflorescences, and its 10-centimeter-long fruits resemble weaving cones.

Parts for Use

Bark

1. Collected in spring, early summer, or autumn, then dried.
2. Crushed, cut, or powdered for use in decoctions, capsules, liquid extracts, tinctures, and medicinal wines.

Ingredients

Condurango bark contains glycosides of condurangogenin (bitter compounds), saponosides, phytosterols, and flavonoids.

Use in Treatment

Condurango’s chemical composition stimulates appetite, improves digestion, and soothes gastritis, making it effective for indigestion and stomach pain. It is often combined with small poppy, pine, and rennet to enhance appetite during recovery. Traditionally, it has been used for snake bites, bleeding, and fluid retention, though these uses require medical supervision. Recent animal studies suggest condurango may slow cancerous tumor growth, but this is speculative and requires professional oversight. Use for snake bites, bleeding, fluid retention, or potential cancer-related applications must be guided by a healthcare professional due to serious risks.

Cultivation

Condurango can be grown from seed in partially shaded areas with sandy, humus-rich soil.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Low Appetite, Indigestion, Stomach Pain)

1. Decoction: Boil 1.5 g of finely chopped bark in 250 ml of cold water, cool completely, strain, and drink 1 glass 30 minutes before each meal.
2. Capsules (100 mg dry extract): Take 1–2 capsules 3 times daily, 30 minutes before meals.
3. Tincture: Add 25 drops to 300 ml of water and take 3 times daily.
4. Liquid Extract: Add 20 drops to 300 ml of water and drink before each meal.
5. Medicinal Wine: Drink 1–2 tablespoons 30 minutes before each meal.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for snake bites, bleeding, fluid retention, or potential cancer-related applications.
2. Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if you have liver disorders.
3. Consult a doctor if taking other medications, as interactions may occur.
4. Do not operate machinery or vehicles while using condurango preparations.
5. Ingestion of condurango bark may cause seizures, potentially leading to paralysis.
6. Overdose may cause severe side effects, including excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, coordination issues, and general weakness.