Jaborandi

OTHER NAME(S): Arruda Bravam, Arruda Do Mato, Jamguarandi, Juarandi, Maranhao Jaborandi, Pilocarpus Jaborandi, Pilocarpus microphyllus

Overview

Jaborandi is an herb. The leaves are used to make medicine.

Despite serious safety concerns, jaborandi is used for diarrhea, glaucoma, and to cause sweating. But there is no good scientific evidence to support its uses.

It's important to understand the difference between jaborandi and pilocarpine. Jaborandi itself is rarely used as a medicinal herb. It was originally used in the production of pilocarpine, an FDA-approved prescription medication. Pilocarpine eye drops are used for treating glaucoma. Pilocarpine tablets are used for treating dry mouth due to radiation treatment or dry mouth and dry eyes due to a condition called Sjogren syndrome.

It is not known how jaborandi might work. It might stimulate saliva production, sweat, and muscle contractions in the stomach and intestines.

It is not known how jaborandi might work. It might stimulate saliva production, sweat, and muscle contractions in the stomach and intestines.

References
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
  3. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  4. Rocha JA, Andrade IM, Véras LMC, et al. Anthelmintic, antibacterial and cytotoxicity activity of imidazole alkaloids from Pilocarpus microphyllus leaves. Phytother Res. 2017;31(4):624-630.