Edible Parts: Seed  Seedpod
Edible Uses:

A coumarin-like flavouring can be extracted from the seed through a process of fermentation[ 46 , 301 ]. It has been used commercially as a vanilla substitute in flavouring a wide range of foods including baked goods, ice cream, cocoa etc[ 301 ]. Its use is banned in some countries because of the possibility that coumarins can cause health problems - see notes above on toxicity[ 238 ]. The seed pods are 5 - 6cm long and about 3cm in diameter[ 335 ]. The pulp inside the seedpod is eaten raw[ 335 ]. Seed - eaten after boiling to get rid of toxins[ 335 ].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Antiasthmatic  Antirheumatic  Antispasmodic  Astringent  Cardiotonic  Dysentery  Emmenagogue  Febrifuge  
Mouthwash  Stomachic

The bark is astringent and febrifuge[ 348 ]. A decoction, combined with the crushed whole plant of Tonina fluviatilis, is used to prepare an infant fortifier[ 348 ]. The fragrant seeds are a rich source of coumarin. They are considered to be antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, cardiotonic and emmenagogue[ 739 ]. A decoction of the seed and sugar is used as a cold remedy[ 348 ]. The seed is mixed with rum to make a tincture that is rubbed on snakebite, contusions and rheumatism[ 348 ]. The seeds have been used in the past to treat whooping cough, but recent research has shown that the aromatic coumarins they contain can have detrimental effects upon the heart and liver, and may also cause cancer[ 238 ]. The oil from the seeds is used to alleviate stomach aches, to treat sores in the mouth, to fortify the scalp and improve hair growth[ 739 ]. It is said to be effective in controlling dysentery[ 348 ]. A cold water infusion of the leaves is used as an ear wash to treat earache[ 348 ]. The leaves are crushed to make a snuff powder[ 348 ]. The seed contains coumarin, which is used in perfume and for flavouring tobacco and whisky[ 348 ]. Bark contains isoflavones and umbelliferone[ 348 ]. The leaves contains salicylic, hydroxycoumaric, coumaric and ferulic acids[ 348 ].

Cosmetic  Fencing  Hair  Pot-pourri  Wood

Agroforestry Uses: The trees are grown to provide shade in cocoa plantations[310 ]. Other Uses: Coumarin, obtained from the seeds, is added to perfumes as a fixative[ 238 ]. It is also an aromatic ingredient in tobaccos and snuffs[ 238 ]. The seeds are used in pot pourri[ 238 ]. The fresh heartwood is a reddish-brown or purplish-brown colour with attractive light yellowish-brown or purplish streaks, seasoning to a variegated reddish and yellowish brown but after exposure to light gradually becoming a uniform yellowish brown or light brown; it is distinctly demarcated from the 3 - 5cm wide band of brownish yellow or yellowish brown sapwood[ 378 ]. The texture is fine; lustre medium; the grain irregular to often interlocked; no distinctive taste but a faint vanilla-like or rancid odour; a waxy or oily feel is also a characteristic of the wood[ 348 ]. It is an extremely hard and heavy wood, similar to lignum vitae (Guaiacum spp.) in this respect[ 378 ]. The wood is also very strong, very dense, tough and very resistant to decay when in contact with the soil[ 378 ]. It is difficult to work because of its high density and hardness; hard to saw and bore, but if sawn or bored clean edges and holes result; when severely interlocked grain is not present, the wood planes and finishes to a smooth surface; it glues poorly, as do many other woods of very high density, but takes a high polish[ 378 ]. When unpainted wood is exposed to the elements, it weathers well as to surface smoothness and freedom from warp and checking[ 378 ]. The wood is used extensively for cogs and shafts, heavy construction, turnery, fishing rods, paving blocks, barge and dock fenders, and flooring. The wood is particularly well adapted for use in tool handles, agricultural implements, sporting goods, and other uses utilizing its high bending strength and good shock resistance qualities. The somewhat oily nature of the wood and its hardness allow its use for bearings, cogs, shafts, and other uses in place of lignum vitae, where friction wear is a problem. It makes excellent wood for railway crossties and posts, for it is durable and does not split when exposed to the elements[ 378 ]. This wood should also do exceptionally well as boat keels and frames, ice sheathing, industrial flooring, and specialty items requiring a strong durable wood. Small quantities have been shipped into the United States for high-grade face veneer[ 378 ].

Special Uses

Food Forest  Nitrogen Fixer