Ceratonia siliqua

Ceratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fats
Ceratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fatsCeratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fatsCeratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fatsCeratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fatsCeratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fatsCeratonia siliqua, Fabaceae, Leguminosae, Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fats
Botanical Nomenclature Ceratonia siliqua
Common Name Carob Tree, Locust Bean, St John's-Bread
Taxonomy- Family Fabaceae, Leguminosae
Distinguishing Features of the Plant Ceratonia siliqua is a perennial tree growing up to 15m, with red-brown trunk, feathered, intact, leathery, dark green, shiny above, pale green below leaves and strong-smelling, small, green flowers, without petals. The flowering and the harvesting take place from August to October.
Region Found Epirus (cultivated, not wild species)
Part of the Plant with Active Substances Fruits, bark
Active Substances Carbohydrates, pectins, proteins, vitamins, tannins, lignans, fats
Pharmacological Effects - Therapeutic Applications The whole plant has antidiarrheal, antiemetic, astringent, emollient, laxative, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The herbal tea is recommended for the treatment of diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems, constipation, heartburn and persistent cough. A lot of studies, which are conducted in France, have shown the possible use of the seeds for the treatment of various renal problems, although further research is required to confirm this use. It is often used as a component in cosmetics, especially in face washes. In folk medicine it is used against helminths and eye infections. The fruit's fibers contribute to the reduction of cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well in the treatment of prostatitis. Finally, they also supposed to have antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Method of Administration The plant is administered either orally or it is applied externally to the skin in the form of herbal tea (a spoon of dried fruits in a cup of boiled water for 5-10min, 3 times a day) and in the form of infusion (a spoon of dried fruits in a cup of boiling water for 5min, three times a day). It is often used as an ingredient in cosmetics for external use and in dietary supplements (capsules, adults' dose: 20g/a day and children's dose: 15g/a day), taken with plenty of water
Warning: The use of herb preparations is not recommended without seeking advice from your physician or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with the subscribed drugs that the patient already takes, thus eliminating their therapeutic efficacy or inducing toxicity. They may also burden further weakened vital functions of the body thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life threatened conditions.
Toxicity- Adverse Effects No side effects are reported.
References 1) http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/c/ceratonia-siliqua=carob.php 2)http://www.medicalhealthguide.com/herb/carob.htm 3) http://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/carob-beans.html 4) http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Ceratonia+siliqua 5) http://botanakaiygeia.blogspot.com/2013/11/keratonia.html