9 Croton Seeds Benefits And Side Effects (Croton Tiglium)

Are you curious about Croton Seeds benefits and side effects as well as recommended dosage? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the scientific research surrounding croton seeds and provide you with all the information you need.

Croton seeds have long been used in traditional medicine for their laxative and purgative properties, making them a popular choice for relieving constipation. Additionally, they possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may have therapeutic applications.

However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and consult a healthcare professional before using croton seeds.

Let’s explore this fascinating topic together!

What Are Croton Seeds?

Croton seeds, also known as Ba Dou, Graines de Croton or Croton tiglium, are tiny brown seeds with a tough shell that have been used in traditional medicine for generations. These seeds come from the croton tiglium plant, which belongs to the euphorbiaceae family.

They contain various bioactive substances, including diterpenes, alkaloids, flavonoids, and fatty acids. The medicinal properties of croton seeds can be attributed to these bioactive compounds.

Croton seeds have powerful laxative and purgative effects due to the presence of croton oil. They can relieve constipation and promote bowel movements. Additionally, these seeds exhibit antimicrobial activity against specific bacterial strains and possess anti-inflammatory properties that make them beneficial for treating inflammatory diseases like arthritis.

The chemistry of croton seeds includes phorbol esters, terpenoids, and flavonoids which contribute to their physiological effects such as activating Protein Kinase C (PKC) and reducing inflammation.

Croton Seeds Benefits

Croton seeds offer a range of potential health benefits. They’ve been found to possess antifungal properties, capable of destroying candida albicans. Additionally, they contain powerful antioxidants that can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Croton seed oil has also been used traditionally to soothe muscle and joint pain, treat constipation, and even address issues related to baldness.

While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits, croton seeds show promise as a natural remedy for various health conditions.

Let’s explore in more details the health benefits of croton seeds.

Illustration of the full Croton tiglium plant. Source: Wikipedia

1. Destroys candida albicans

Consuming 15-20 ml Croton extract dissolved in 50 ml of water on a daily basis, can effectively eliminate candida albicans within 30 days or less.

Croton seeds contain bioactive compounds that have potent antimicrobial properties, making them a promising treatment for candida infections.

User claims that if you consume 15-20 ml Croton extract dissolved in 50 ml of water, twice daily will destroy candida albicans. Source: WebMD

The chemical composition of croton seeds includes phorbol esters, which have been found to bind to and activate Protein Kinase C (PKC), leading to the destruction of candida albicans. [1]

2. Powerful antioxidant

Incorporating croton seeds into your routine can provide a powerful antioxidant boost for your overall health and well-being.

Research studies (pdf) have shown that croton seeds contain bioactive compounds such as phorbol esters, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which exhibit strong antioxidative characteristics.

These compounds have the ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, which is known to contribute to various health conditions including inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and aging-related disorders.

The antioxidant properties of croton seeds are attributed to the presence of components like α-bisabolol, α-eudesmol, guaiol, vanillic acid, 4-hydroxy-benzoic acid, and N-methyltyrosine.

By incorporating croton seeds into your routine in a safe and controlled manner, you can help support your body’s natural defense systems against oxidative damage and promote optimal health.

3. Soothes Muscle and joint pain

Croton seed oil has been used for centuries in both folk and Ayurvedic medicine as a natural pain reliever. The oil contains several bioactive ingredients, including phorbol esters, which help block pain-stimulating receptors in the body.

This can help to relax smooth muscles and prevent cramps or pain. Studies on animals have shown that croton seed oil has anti-nociceptive properties, which means it can prevent the sensation of pain.

As a result, it can be effective in providing temporary relief from abdominal cramps, stomach pain, and other types of pain. Overall, croton seed oil is a natural and potentially effective remedy for pain relief.

User of croton seeds claims that after taking 1 croton seed with a handful of groundnut two times a week, dropped its pains from a scale to 10 down to 2. Source: WebMD

In a study, researchers evaluated the antinociceptive effect of the seed of Croton tiglium L. (SCT) through the writhing test in mice. They also investigated the effects of SCT on spontaneous smooth muscle contractions of isolated rabbit jejunum and examined the in-vitro results through the in-vivo small intestine propulsion. Six compounds were tentatively identified as phorbol esters using HPLC-MS.

The possible fragmentation pathways of phorbol esters were proposed, and the researchers detected the possible compounds in the active parts. These findings suggest that SCT may have potential as a natural remedy for pain relief and gastrointestinal disorders.

To soothe muscle and joint pain, you can try using croton seeds topically as they have been known to provide relief.

4. Potential treatment for HIV and cancer

Yes, croton seeds, although vilified by mainstream health websites, have been scientifically proven to help treat HIV and cancer.

More specifically, in a study published in the scientific journal Phytochemistry, researchers found five compounds in the seeds of the Croton tiglium plant that could help fight HIV and cancer.

Two of the compounds were effective in stopping HIV from damaging cells, while another compound was found to be the most potent inhibitor of HIV-induced damage and the most effective activator of a protein that helps fight cancer.

These findings suggest that Croton tiglium could be a useful treatment for HIV and cancer.

5. Treats Constipation

Now let’s discuss another important benefit of croton seeds: their effectiveness in treating constipation.

Ayurvedic medicine recommends using purified croton kernels for this purpose. According to ayurvedic manuscripts, a mixture of 8 parts (20 grams) of croton kernels blended with 1 part (2.5 grams) of tankan bhasma can relieve the symptoms of constipation, regulate bowel movements, and improve appetite.

However, it is crucial to note that while purified croton kernels may be beneficial for treating constipation, they should not be used frequently as regular use can cause intestinal discomfort and reduce natural peristalsis.

6. Treats baldness

If you’re experiencing baldness, you may find relief in the use of croton seeds for its potential hair growth benefits. Croton seeds have been used in traditional medicine for generations and have shown promising results in treating alopecia.

The Unani system of medicine combines croton tiglum (seeds) with Zingiber officinale (extract of rhizome) to create a paste that has been used for thousands of years to treat Safa, or alopecia areata.

Modern research has identified crotonol as a potent irritant present in croton seeds. Additionally, studies have shown that Zingiber officinale (ginger) contains alkaloids, phlobotannins, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannin, and terpenoids which contribute to its therapeutic properties.

While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind its effectiveness, using croton seeds may be a natural and alternative option worth considering for those seeking treatment for baldness.

7. Treats Hemorrhoids

You can find relief from hemorrhoids by using jamalgota root paste, which has been traditionally used to heal external and non-bleeding hemorrhoids. The topical application of this paste works by shrinking and drying out the inflamed hemorrhoid tissue.

The croton roots are powdered and blended with buttermilk to create an extract that can effectively alleviate piles pain. However, it’s important to note that this remedy is only suitable for non-bleeding piles.

Jamalgota, also known as croton seeds, have been used in traditional medicine for generations due to their medicinal properties. They contain bioactive compounds such as croton oil, which possesses purgative and anti-inflammatory effects.

8. Cures Jaundice

To cure jaundice, you can try using jamalgota root paste. This paste, traditionally used for its medicinal properties, is made by blending the external bark of jamalgota root with jaggery.

It is consumed orally as advised by Ayurvedic practitioners. The purpose of this paste is to increase bile secretion from the gall bladder and liver, which helps in treating jaundice and reducing white stools.

Jamalgota seeds and oil also possess multiple medicinal properties. This is due to their chemical composition, which includes being acrid, bitter, thermogenic, emollient, purgative, digestive carminative, antihelminthic, anti-inflammatory, vermifuge, expectorant, vesicant, and rubefacient.

The paste of the seeds can be applied topically to treat alopecia and heal infections on the scalp and skin. Additionally, it can be combined with lime juice to create a collyrium for snake poisoning.

9. Can Heal Skin Infections

Jamalgota’s medicinal properties include the ability to heal skin infections due to its chemical composition. The extracts of jamalgota have potent antimicrobial actions, making them effective in suppressing the growth of pathogens like fungi and bacteria that cause skin infections.

In traditional medicine, jamalgota has been used for treating scabies and carbuncles. However, it is important to consult with an ayurvedic practitioner before using jamalgota for skin problems, as overuse of this extract can cause severe skin irritation.

The chemical composition of jamalgota plays a crucial role in its healing properties. Its bioactive compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in combating the infection and promoting the healing process.

Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind jamalgota’s effectiveness in treating skin infections.

Croton Seeds Potential Side Effects

If used improperly, croton seeds can cause severe irritation and inflammation in your alimentary canal. This can lead to symptoms such as

diarrhea
cramps
abdominal tenderness
ulcers
vomiting
dizziness
blistering
itching

Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children should especially exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using croton seeds.

Also, individuals with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications should also seek medical advice before incorporating croton seeds into their treatment plan.

How To Use Croton seeds Extract

Croton seed oil can be applied directly to the skin or mixed with water and consumed. It is commonly used in traditional medicine for various purposes.

When applied topically, croton seed oil can effectively treat muscle and joint pain, gout, nerve pain, and bronchitis. This oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.

When ingested, croton seed oil acts as a laxative and purgative, providing relief from constipation and promoting bowel movements.

However, it is crucial to exercise caution when using croton seed oil, as excessive ingestion or usage can lead to gastrointestinal problems and other side effects.

Seed Purification (Shodhana)

To properly purify the seeds before use, you should follow the Ayurvedic shodhana process. This involves soaking the seeds overnight to soften them and make them easier to work with.

After soaking, you need to remove the outer coating of the seeds, as well as the cotyledons that are found inside.

The next step is steaming the seeds with cow’s milk, which helps to further cleanse and purify them.

Once they have been steamed, you should wash the seeds with warm water and lime juice to remove any toxins that may be present.

Finally, it is important to dry the seeds thoroughly before storing them in an earthen or glass jar.

In a study, researchers investigated the purification process of Croton tiglium seeds, known for their toxicity due to the presence of phorbol esters and crotonic acid.

The seeds were purified using cow milk, as described in Ayurvedic texts. The researchers found that the purification process reduced the content of phorbol esters equivalent to PMA from 5.2 mg/100 g to 1.8 mg/100 g of dried seeds, and eliminated crotonic acid.

These constituents are oil-soluble and may contribute to the seeds’ toxicity, but their removal through purification decreases the seeds’ toxicity. The study supports the use of cow milk in the purification process of C. tiglium seeds.

Recommended Dosage

When determining the appropriate dosage, make sure to consult a healthcare professional for guidance on how much jamalgota to use. It is important to seek their expertise as they can consider various factors such as your specific health condition, age, and any medications you may be taking.

The dosage of jamalgota can vary depending on the desired effect and the form of administration. For example, when using croton oil topically for skin conditions or joint pain, a small amount should be applied and gently massaged into the affected area. However, it is crucial to follow the recommended dosage and avoid excessive use.

Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children should avoid using jamalgota without medical supervision. Individuals with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications should also consult a healthcare professional before using jamalgota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Croton seeds have been traditionally used in some cultures for weight loss, and some studies have investigated their potential for this purpose. However,there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of croton seeds for weight loss.

To harvest croton seeds, you should follow these steps:

Wait until the croton plant produces ripe, blackish-brown fruits.
Peel off the outer layer of the fruit to reveal the seeds.
Immerse the seeds in warm water at 140°F for half an hour and leave them for the day. This will help to soften the seed coat and improve germination.
Plant the seeds 0.4-0.5 inches deep in a loose and slightly acidic potting mix at 72°F.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm and bright location.

It’s important to note that croton seeds are toxic and should be handled with care. Wear gloves when handling the seeds and avoid getting the oil on your skin or in your eyes. Additionally, not all species of croton produce viable seeds, so it’s best to research your specific plant to ensure successful seed harvesting.

Croton seeds are small and round, with a hard, shiny outer shell that is usually black or dark brown in color. The seeds have a slightly flattened shape and are about 0.2 to 0.3 inches (5 to 8 millimeters) in diameter.

Inside the hard outer shell, there is a white or cream-colored kernel that contains the oil.

However, croton seeds have been traditionally used in some cultures for their potential medicinal properties, including as a natural remedy for constipation, gastrointestinal disorders, and pain relief. Some studies have also investigated their potential for treating HIV and cancer due to the presence of certain compounds in the seeds.

Croton tiglium poisoning is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect that someone has ingested croton tiglium seeds or oil, you should seek medical attention immediately.

The treatment for croton tiglium poisoning typically involves supportive care to manage the symptoms and prevent complications. This may include intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, antiemetic medications to control nausea and vomiting, and pain management medications to relieve abdominal pain. In cases of severe poisoning, hospitalization may be necessary, and the patient may require respiratory support and other interventions to manage complications.

While it’s generally safe to touch Croton plant leaves, it’s important to be careful when handling them. Croton leaves contain a toxic sap that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it’s best to wear gloves when handling Croton plants or avoid touching the leaves altogether.

If you do come into contact with the sap, wash the affected area with soap and water immediately to remove the sap and prevent further irritation. If you develop a rash or other symptoms, such as itching or swelling, seek medical attention. It’s also a good idea to keep Croton plants out of reach of children and pets, who may accidentally ingest the leaves or sap and experience more serious symptoms.

Bottom Line

While jamalgota has been used in traditional medicine for generations and has various medicinal properties, such as being acrid, bitter, thermogenic, emollient, purgative, digestive carminative, antihelminthic, anti-inflammatory, vermifuge, expectorant, vesicant, and rubefacient, it is important to use it with caution.

The chemical composition of jamalgota includes croton oil, which can cause skin irritation when applied topically. Pregnant women should avoid using jamalgota due to its potential to cause abortions.

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9 Croton Seeds Benefits And Side Effects (Croton tiglium)

What Are Croton Seeds?