White Quebracho

There are 80 or so species of evergreen trees in this S American genus. They have fine wood and a milky sap containing alkaloids. Those contained in A. quebracho-blanco include the aphrodisiac quebrachine or yohimbine, also present in the unrelated Pausinystalia yohimbe (see johimbe). The medicinal bark of A. quebracho-blanco first reached Europe in 1878, having long been used medicinally by native S. Americans as a febrifuge. Quebracho, the Spanish for "axe breaks", refers to the hardness of the wood. Blanco, "white", distinguishes if from the red quebracho (Schinopsis quebracho-colorado), which is used a mild digestive stimulant.

Tender evergreen tree, with thick, corky bark, pendulous young twigs, and leathery, elliptical to lanceolate, spine-tipped leaves. Fragrant yellow, funnel-shaped flowers are produced in short, branched clusters, followed by woody capsules that split open to release numerous winged seeds.

Common Name:	White Quebracho
Other Names:	Quebracho, naawa
Botanical Name:	Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco
Genus:	Aspidosperma
Family:	Apocynaceae
Native Location:	S American (mainly Argentina)
Cultivation:	Well-drained to sandy soil in sun.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe.
Harvest:	Bark is removed as required and dried alkaloid extraction or use in liquid extracts.
Height:	30m (100ft)
Width:	5-12m (20-40ft)
Hardiness:	Min. 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Parts Used:	Bark
Properties:	A bitter, tonic herb that stimulates the circulatory, respiratory, and genito-urinary systems, lowers fevers, and relaxes spasms.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and feverish illnesses. Excess causes nausea and vomiting.
Warning:	This herb is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 136