Scientific name: Jatropha curcas

IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern

GPS Location: 17° 42′ ″ N, 64° 49′ ″ W

Medicinal Uses

Jatropha curcas is a versatile plant used in traditional medicine across the globe, with different parts used for antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal), anti-inflammatory, wound healing (latex for cuts/burns/sores), pain relief (rheumatism, headaches, muscle pain), digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation), fever, and even as a potential antidiabetic and anticancer agent, though its toxic properties (like curcin) require careful research before commercialization. 

Common Medicinal Uses by Plant Part:

• Leaves:
  • Fever, convulsions (decoction with lime).
  • Malaria (leafy twigs or boiled with other plants).
  • Headaches, chest inflammation, congestion (paste/juice).
  • Lactagogue (promote milk).
  • Antiseptic, wound dressing.
• Latex (White Sap):
  • Wound healing, stopping bleeding, treating sores, ulcers, burns, and skin infections (piles, ringworm, eczema).
  • Mouthwash for toothaches, bleeding gums, mouth ulcers.
  • Antiviral and antimicrobial.
• Roots:
  • Hypertension, sexually transmitted diseases (decoction).
  • Diabetes (decoction with other plants).
  • Antidote for snake venom (root extract).
  • Oral health (antibacterial for plaque, gum infections).
• Seeds & Oil:
  • Laxative/purgative for constipation, stomach disorders.
  • Skin ailments (oil for itch, eczema, rheumatism).
  • Hair care (oil for strengthening roots, dandruff).
• Stems/Twigs:
  • Chewing sticks for dental hygiene.
  • Muscle pain massage (crushed stem with oil). 

Key Properties & Potential:

• Antimicrobial: Active against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and various viruses.
• Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: Used for pain relief and inflammation.
• Antiviral: Shows promise against influenza and other viruses.
• Anticancer: Contains compounds with potential anti-cancer properties, noted in latex. 

Important Consideration:

• Jatropha curcas contains toxic compounds (like curcin in seeds) and should be used with caution, as many traditional uses require specific preparation and scientific validation for safety and efficacy.

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Physic Nut (Jatropha curcas)

1. Leaf Behavior
Physic Nut is deciduous, especially in dry or drought-prone conditions.

• Leaves are broad, deeply veined, and typically 3–5 lobed.
• Leaf drop is common in the dry season (January–March) or during extended droughts.
• New leaf flushes emerge rapidly with rainfall or irrigation.

Observation Tips:

• Monitor timing and extent of leaf loss, particularly in dry months.
• Record leaf regeneration, noting color and rate of canopy recovery after rains.

2. Flowering
Flowers are small, yellowish-green, and produced in clusters (cymes) at the branch tips.

• J. curcas is monoecious, bearing both male and female flowers on the same plant.
• Flowering can occur several times a year, often peaking in the early wet season (April–June).

Observation Tips:

• Look for small inflorescences at new growth points.
• Track flowering frequency, and monitor for pollinator visits (mostly small bees and flies).
• Note flower ratios (male vs female) as they vary by environmental conditions.

3. Fruiting
Fruits are green, oval capsules that turn yellowish or brown as they mature.

• Each capsule contains three black seeds, which are toxic if ingested but rich in oil.
• Fruiting typically follows flowering by several weeks and can occur two or more times per year, depending on rainfall.

Observation Tips:

• Document fruit set, ripening, and seed release.
• Watch for capsule drying and natural splitting (dehiscence).
• Handle with care—seeds are poisonous.

4. Growth Habit
Grows as a woody shrub or small tree, usually 6–15 feet tall.

• Very drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeric landscapes, but it can spread aggressively in some areas.
• Frequently used in hedges or erosion control plantings, but all parts are toxic if consumed.

5. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Leaf drop
• Apr–Jun: Leaf flush and flowering
• Jun–Sep: Fruit development and seed dispersal
• Oct–Dec: Possible secondary flowering/fruiting