Poisonous
Effect:
hepatoprotective, digestive, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, anthelmintic, abortifacient, cytotoxic, antimitotic
Areas of application:
Laxatives, ulcers, asthma, bronchitis, jaundice, dyspepsia, constipation, anemia, tumors, dropsy, urinary bladder, rheumatism, snake bites, sciatic and trigeminal pain, muscle cramps, menstrual pain, after anger, rage or indignation, violent, cramp-like pain, restlessness, numbness
Plant parts used:
fruit, seeds
Collection time:
October to February
To find:
Native to North Africa and Southwest Asia. It also grows in Australia, southern Europe, India and Central Africa in disturbed vegetation, on river banks, river lowlands, on roadsides and at an altitude of up to 1200 m.
Ingredients:
Cucurbitacins, triterpenes
Miscellaneous:
Paracelsus (1493–1541) frequently mentions the fruit and formulated it in the drastic language of the time: “Whoever eats the coloquinte must go to the stool.” In his writings, he warned against the incorrect use of medicines, using as an example those that were often abused in times past Coloquinte. Similar information can also be found in other herbal books of this time.
Colocynthis is only used homeopathically.
🛑 Attention! Taking Koloquinte can cause irritation of the mucous membranes in the stomach and intestinal tract, bloody diarrhea and kidney damage. We strongly advise against taking it internally!!! Not suitable for self-medication.
There is also a risk of confusion with watermelon or zucchini.