Latin Name: Jatropha curcas

Plant Origin and Preferred Growing Habitat:
Jarak Pagar, also known as the physic nut, originates from Central America but has spread widely to tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia, Africa, and India. It thrives in dry and arid climates, prefers well-drained soils, and is often planted as a hedge or boundary marker in farmlands due to its hardy nature and resistance to drought.

General Appearance:
Jarak Pagar is a medium-sized shrub or small tree, growing up to 3–5 meters tall. It has a thick, green, and smooth stem with lobed leaves that are green, alternate, or sub-opposite. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters, followed by oval, three-lobed fruits that contain dark seeds.

Benefits as a Herb:
Jarak Pagar has long been used in traditional medicine, although some parts of the plant are toxic if not processed properly. Key benefits include:

  • Wound Healing: The latex from the plant is applied to cuts, wounds, and insect bites to promote healing.
  • Skin Disorders: Treats eczema, ringworm, and other skin conditions.
  • Pain Relief: The leaves are used as a poultice to relieve muscle pain, swelling, and inflammation.
  • Digestive Aid: A carefully prepared extract of the seeds can act as a laxative.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: Contains compounds that combat bacteria and fungi.
  • Fever Reduction: Leaf extracts are used to reduce fever.

How to Process Jarak Pagar for Consumption as Medicine:

  1. Wound and Skin Treatment:
    • Extract the white latex from the stem and apply directly to minor wounds or skin infections. Use cautiously, as it may cause irritation in some individuals.
  2. Poultice for Pain Relief:
    • Lightly heat fresh leaves, crush them, and apply them as a poultice to the affected area. Secure with a cloth and leave for a few hours.
  3. Laxative:
    • The seeds can be processed to extract oil, which acts as a powerful laxative. Important: Due to the toxic nature of raw seeds, the oil must be prepared under strict conditions by trained professionals.
  4. Tea for Fever:
    • Boil a few cleaned leaves in water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm in small doses.

Precautions:

  • All parts of the plant, especially the seeds, contain toxic compounds (phorbol esters) that can cause severe side effects if consumed improperly.
  • Always consult a healthcare professional before using Jarak Pagar medicinally.
  • Avoid ingestion of raw seeds or latex, as they can be highly toxic.

Jarak Pagar is a remarkable plant with a wide range of uses, but its medicinal potential must be harnessed carefully due to its toxic components.