Dragon's blood: botany, chemistry and therapeutic uses

J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Feb 12;115(3):361-80. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2007.10.018. Epub 2007 Oct 22.

Abstract

Dragon's blood is one of the renowned traditional medicines used in different cultures of world. It has got several therapeutic uses: haemostatic, antidiarrhetic, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antiviral, wound healing, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, etc. Besides these medicinal applications, it is used as a coloring material, varnish and also has got applications in folk magic. These red saps and resins are derived from a number of disparate taxa. Despite its wide uses, little research has been done to know about its true source, quality control and clinical applications. In this review, we have tried to overview different sources of Dragon's blood, its source wise chemical constituents and therapeutic uses. As well as, a little attempt has been done to review the techniques used for its quality control and safety.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arecaceae / chemistry*
  • Conservation of Natural Resources
  • Dracaena / chemistry*
  • Euphorbiaceae / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Medicine, Traditional
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Quality Control
  • Resins, Plant

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Resins, Plant