Although the fruit has sometimes been eaten, it is considered to be poisonous by some writers and so should definitely be avoided[213]. The fruit is about 15mm in diameter[200].

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.


Wahoo was used in various ways by the North American Indians, for example as an eye lotion, as a poultice for facial sores and for gynaecological conditions[254]. In current herbalism it is considered to be a gallbladder remedy with laxative and diuretic properties[254]. The bark, however, is toxic and should only be used under professional supervision, it should not be given to pregnant women or nursing mothers[254]. The stem and root bark is alterative, cardiac, cathartic, cholagogue, diuretic, expectorant, hepatic, laxative, stimulant and tonic[4, 21, 46, 61, 222]. The root bark is the part normally used, though bark from the stems is sometimes employed as a substitute[4]. In small doses it stimulates the appetite, in larger doses it irritates the intestines[4]. The bark is especially useful in the treatment of biliousness and liver disorders which follow or accompany fevers[4, 254] and for treating various skin disorders such as eczema which could arise from poor liver and gallbladder function[254]. It is also used as a tea in the treatment of malaria, liver congestion, constipation etc[222]. The powdered bark, applied to the scalp, was believed to eliminate dandruff[222]. The bark and the root contain digitoxin and have a digitalis-like effect on the heart[213, 222]. They have been used in the treatment of heart conditions[254]. The bark, which has a sweetish taste, is gathered in the autumn and can be dried for later use[213]. A tea made from the roots is used in cases of uterine prolapse, vomiting of blood, painful urination and stomach-aches[222]. The seed is emetic and strongly laxative[222].

Wood - heavy, hard, tough, very close grained[82, 227]. It weighs 41lb per cubic foot[227], but is too small to be of commercial value[229].

Special Uses