A tree in the Amazonian rain forests of Peru (Croton lechleri and Croton palanostigma) is the source of a healing sap that research is showing to be a potent pain killer and anti-inflammatory, whether applied topically or taken internally, and in minute amounts. Research in Europe has shown that, true to another use by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon, the sap accelerates skin repair and the healing of wounds.
Clinical studies in the U.S. are reporting that the sap stops the pain and inflammation of insect bites for up to 6 hours and that an extract preparation is an effective means of treating watery diarrhea. Owing to its red coloration, Spanish explorers gave it the name “Sangre de Drago” meaning ‘Dragon’s Blood’. In Peru and neighboring countries, the sap is a common household item used topically and internally to ameliorate pain and inflammations and to speed the healing of wounds, ulcers, and piles*.
Sangre de Drago is one of the fastest growing trees in the Amazon. Because these trees grow to a harvestable size in a matter of only a few years, it is widely acknowledged that there is little chance of decimating the species. Despite this assurance, we established a propagation program to increase the population of Sangre de Drago to ensure future supply. Working closely with indigenous people skilled in the knowledge of Sangre de Drago, our botanists are developing alternative methods of harvesting the sap without destroying the tree.
