Health Guide

Jaborandi

Meet Jaborandi (*Pilocarpus jaborandi*), a powerful leafy plant native to the Amazon rainforest, often referred to as 'the sweat tree.' For centuries, indigenous tribes have used this botanical to induce sweating and treat ailments. Today, its primary active compound, **pilocarpine**, is extracted for medicinal use. While you won't find Jaborandi in your local salad bar, its potent extracts are widely used in dietary supplements to support glandular health, particularly for managing dry eye disease and stimulating hair growth.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Pilocarpine Potency by Plant Part

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Alkaloid Content (mg/g)

Plant Part →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Relieves Chronic Dry Eye: It stimulates tear production to soothe irritation.
Stimulates Hair Growth: Often used to treat alopecia areata by waking up dormant follicles.
Treats Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Great for those suffering from 'dry mouth' due to medication or radiation.
Induces Sweating: Helps the body detox naturally through the skin.

Deep Dive

The magic of Jaborandi lies in its ability to mimic the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system—the 'rest and digest' part of your body. For your eyes, it forces the lacrimal glands to produce tears. For your hair, it increases blood flow to the scalp, delivering vital nutrients to hair roots. It is a targeted, potent botanical best used under guidance.

Natural Food Sources

Note: Jaborandi is a botanical herb and is not found in standard foods. It grows as a shrub in the wild. However, you can support similar glandular functions naturally by consuming:

Food	Amount	% DV
Fatty Fish (Salmon)	3 oz	100% (Omega-3s)
Flaxseeds	1 tbsp	High (Lipids)
Green Tea	1 cup	Moderate (Antioxidants)
Citrus Fruits	1 medium	High (Vitamin C)

Supplementation

Dosage: Standardized extracts vary. For dry eye, topical ophthalmic drops are common (prescription usually). For oral supplements, follow manufacturer instructions strictly.
Who Should Take It: Individuals with Sjogren's syndrome, chronic dry eye, or alopecia areata.
Form: Available as dried leaves, liquid extract, or standardized pills.

Top Food Sources

Jaborandi Leaf

Source of Pilocarpine

Areca Nut

Contains related alkaloids

Mushrooms

Natural choline sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Only under medical supervision. Because it affects heart rate and sweating, long-term use without monitoring is not recommended.

It is difficult to grow outside of tropical environments (Zone 10+). It requires high humidity and warm temperatures.

It is not a cure, but studies suggest it can help regrow hair in cases of alopecia areata (patchy hair loss) by stimulating the follicles.

This is the primary mechanism of the plant. It stimulates sweat glands directly. If this side effect is severe, discontinue use.

Safety & Side Effects

WARNING: Jaborandi is a potent chemical. It must be used with caution.

Side Effects: Common side effects include profuse sweating, excessive salivation, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Contraindications: Do NOT use if you have:
- Asthma (it can constrict airways).
- Heart disease or irregular heartbeat.
- Epilepsy or a history of seizures.
- Parkinson's disease.
Interactions: It interacts strongly with anticholinergic drugs and glaucoma medications. Consult a doctor before use.

Scientific References

[1]USDA National Plant Germplasm System (Taxonomy)
[2]Journal of Ophthalmology (Pilocarpine for Dry Eye)
[3]Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Amazonian Medicinal Plants)