Traditional Uses: Traditionally used in tropical herbal medicine (Africa, South America, Southeast Asia) for insomnia, diabetes, cystitis, parasitic infections (crushed seeds), rheumatism, and pain relief.
Potential Benefits: May offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, help lower blood sugar and blood pressure (observed in animal studies), and exhibit antimicrobial properties, though human clinical trials are lacking.
Warnings: Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding; long-term use may cause movement disorders and nerve damage (Parkinson-like symptoms) due to neurotoxic acetogenins, and may interact with blood pressure or diabetes medications.
