Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

The use of Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) for treating bites and stings is primarily rooted in traditional medicine. Indigenous peoples in South America and traditional healers have long applied various parts of the plant—especially the leaves and bark—as poultices or topical washes to manage snakebites, insect stings, and skin irritations. Ethnobotanical surveys document these practices, particularly in Brazil and surrounding regions, where the plant is common. The rationale behind its use may be its local antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, as recognized by traditional users.

However, while some preliminary laboratory studies have shown that extracts from the Brazilian peppertree possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, there is little to no direct clinical evidence confirming its efficacy specifically for bites and stings in humans. No controlled clinical trials substantiate its use for this indication, and safety data are limited. Most contemporary references to its use for bites and stings cite historical or ethnomedical sources rather than scientific validation. Thus, while the plant’s use is well documented in folk medicine, the evidence supporting its efficacy for this condition remains low, falling primarily within the realm of traditional knowledge rather than robust scientific confirmation.

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