Pareira

A genus of 10 species of lianas, native to tropical rainforests in C and S America. Several species are key ingredients of curare, and arrow poison used by native S Americans. The name comes from the Greek chondros, cartilage", and dendron, "tree", and refers to the flexible branch-like stems. Chondodendron tomentosum contains alkaloids, notably d-tubocurarine, a skeletal muscle relaxant that acts instantaneously when injected but is unstable if taken orally. Supplies are dependent on wild stocks because the species is not cultivated, and attempts to synthesize it have so far been unsuccessful. Stems and roots are used by native S Americans to treat various ailments, including dropsy, madness, and bruising. The closely related Cissampelos pareira is also an ingredient of curare and a source of potent muscle relaxant, known as "cissampeline".

Large canopy liana with a hairy trunk, up to 10cm (4in) across at the base, and ovate to rounded leaves, to 20cm (8in) long, which have woolly stalks and undersides. Panicles of tiny, green-white, male and female flowers are borne on separate plants.


Common Name:
Pareira
Other Names:
Pareira brava
Botanical Name:
Chondodendron tomentosum
Genus:
Chondodendron
Family:
Menispermaceae
Native Location:
Brazil, Bolivia, Peru
Cultivation:
Not cultivated
Propagation:
There is no information on propagation requirements
Harvest:
Roots and stems are collected from the wild as available and processed by the pharmaceutical industry into liquid extracts.
Height:
30m (100ft)
Width:
Indefinite
Hardiness:
Min. 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Parts Used:
Stems, roots
Properties:
A bitter-sweet, diuretic, laxative herb that lowers fever and stimulates the uterus, when taken orally.
Medicinal Uses:
Mainly intravenously as a source of d-tubocurarine, used to relax muscles during surgery. Used in folk medicine to treat inflammation of the urinary tract, and as a remedy for snakebite.
Warning:
This herb, especially in the form of curare, is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 167