Nandina domestica Sacred bamboo (Berberidaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Nandina domestica
Sacred bamboo
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Nandina domestica plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan and India. It is a member of the Berberidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sacred bamboo.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Nandina domestica
Common Name:  Sacred bamboo
Family:  Berberidaceae
Author:  Thunb.

Known Hazards:  The fruit is poisonous[147].All parts of the plant contain toxic substances, including hydrocyanic acid and nandenine[218].

Mature Height:  2.5   Mature Width:  2

Habitat:  Ravines and valleys in mountains and warmer parts of C. and S. Japan[58].

Medicinal Information: The roots and stems are antitussive, astringent, febrifuge, stomachic and tonic[147, 174]. A decoction is used in the treatment of fever in influenza, acute bronchitis, whooping cough, indigestion, acute gastroenteritis, tooth abcess, pain in the bones and muscles and traumatic injuries[147]. It is especially useful in the treatment of childrens coughs[174]. There is a danger that an overdose can cause respiratory paralysis[174]. A decoction of the leaves is tonic[218]. The fruit is febrifuge and tonic[218]. Another report says that it is toxic, so great care should be employed if using it[147]. The root is antirheumatic[218]. Young shoots contain high concentrations of laetrile - up to 20% on a zero moisture basis[218].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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