Dragon's Blood (Dracaena draco)
Overview
Dragon’s blood derives its name from the deep red sap or latex that oozes from the tree when the bark is cut. A prized rainforest medicine, the latex is applied to wounds, fractures, skin infections, and insect bites. Internally, it is taken to treat diarrhea and dysentery, stomach ulcers, viral infections, and as a vaginal bath before and following childbirth.
Traditional uses & properties
Antiseptic, antiviral
Preparations & dosage
Applying the tree latex to fractures can aid healing.
Safety & precautions
Can permanently stain clothing
Traditionally used for
Related herbs
- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a perennial growing to about 3 ft (1 m), with thick leaves and bell-shaped flowers ranging from white to pink or mauve. Often called “knitbone,” comfrey has been used for centuries to heal fractures, sprains, and other injuries. Its high allantoin content stimulates cell proliferation, supporting rapid tissue repair. While prized in compresses, poultices, and salves for external use, concerns over pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) have led most herbalists to avoid prolonged internal consumption.
- Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a primitive perennial plant with hollow, segmented stems—first producing spore-bearing yellowish fruiting stems in spring, then green, needle-like sterile stems reaching about 2 ft (60 cm). Rich in silica, it is valued for aiding connective tissue, bone, hair, and nail health, as well as for its mild diuretic and astringent qualities.