Quassia

Quassia refers to the wood and extracts from plants of the genus *Quassia*, most notably *Quassia amara* and *Picrasma excelsa*. It is traditionally used as a bitter tonic and stomachic for digestive complaints such as indigestion and loss of appetite. Other suggested uses include treatment for fever, diarrhea, lice infestations (topically), measles, skin conditions, diabetes management (due to its hypoglycemic effect), and as an antifertility agent. The main active constituents are quassinoids (notably quassin) and various alkaloids. Pharmacological studies indicate that Quassia exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, antitumorigenic/insecticidal properties; it also has antiulcer effects likely mediated by inhibition of gastric acid secretion via histamine H2 receptor antagonism[6][8]. Despite these activities in preclinical models or traditional use settings—there is insufficient clinical evidence supporting efficacy for any indication[1][2]. Quassia is generally regarded as safe in food amounts but may cause gastrointestinal irritation or toxicity at higher doses.

Other names

Quassia amaraPicrasma excelsaAmara speciesAmargoBitter woodJamaican quassiaPicrasmaRudaSurinam quassiaSurinam wood